When making or purchasing a tablecloth for your dining table, you should first determine the proper size of the tablecloth for your specific table.
photo courtesy of Didriks flickr.com/photos/dinnerseries/16035360241Keep in mind that a tablecloth will fit your dining table differently with and without your table leaf, so you will need two different sized tablecloths if you plan to use your table with and without your table extension leaf.
Tablecloth dimensions are approximate, so feel free to adjust the dimensions to suit your needs.
Traditional Tablecloth
When purchasing a traditional tablecloth, get one that is approximately 12 to 20 inches wider and longer than the dimensions of your dining table.
These dimensions will allow approximately 6 to 10 inches of overhang on each side of your table.
For example, if your dining table is 48 inches wide by 72 inches long, the tablecloth should be approximately 60 to 68 inches wide by 84 to 92 inches long.
Try to get the overhang size equal on all sides.
You should be able to find a tablecloth near the dimensions you need ready-made, however you can always make one or have one custom made to fit your table if you desire.
photo courtesy of Efaucon http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Salle2.jpg
Tablecloth Halfway to the Floor
A tablecloth that extends halfway to the floor should be approximately 30 inches wider and longer than your dining table.
These dimensions will allow approximately 15 inches of overhang on each side of your table.
For example, if your dining table is 48 inches wide by 72 inches long, the tablecloth should be approximately 78 inches wide by 102 inches long.
Try to get the overhang size equal on all sides.
You should be able to find a tablecloth near the dimensions you need ready-made, however you can always make one or have one custom made to fit your table.
photo courtesy of Harmonia Amanda http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chateau_compiegne036.jpg
Tablecloth Touching the Floor
A tablecloth that touches the floor should be approximately 60 inches wider and longer than your dining table.
These dimensions will allow approximately 30 inches of overhang on each side of your table (assuming your table is a standard 30" high).
For example, if your dining table is 48 inches wide by 72 inches long, the tablecloth should be approximately 108 inches wide by 132 inches long. Try to get the overhang size equal on all sides.
To have a tablecloth fit your table exactly and touch the floor, you will most likely have to resort to making or purchasing a custom tablecloth for your specific table.
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