Tablecloth Size Calculator
Find the perfect tablecloth size for any table shape
Standard: 10-12 in (25-30 cm). Formal: 15 in (38 cm).
Your Tablecloth Size
Tablecloth Dimensions
234 × 142 cm
Fabric Requirements
2.34 meters
Standard Tablecloth Sizes Reference
Common Tablecloth Size Conversions
| Table Size | Overhang | Tablecloth Size | Fabric Needed | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48″ round (122 cm) |
10″ (25 cm) |
68″ round (173 cm) |
2.0 yards (1.8 m) |
Kitchen table |
| 60″ round (152 cm) |
12″ (30 cm) |
84″ round (213 cm) |
2.5 yards (2.3 m) |
Dining table |
| 72″ × 36″ (183 × 91 cm) |
10″ (25 cm) |
92″ × 56″ (234 × 142 cm) |
2.6 yards (2.4 m) |
Buffet table |
| 96″ × 30″ (244 × 76 cm) |
15″ (38 cm) |
126″ × 60″ (320 × 152 cm) |
3.8 yards (3.5 m) |
Banquet table |
| 36″ square (91 cm) |
8″ (20 cm) |
52″ square (132 cm) |
1.5 yards (1.4 m) |
Card table |
| 42″ square (107 cm) |
12″ (30 cm) |
66″ square (168 cm) |
2.0 yards (1.8 m) |
Coffee table |
How the Tablecloth Size Calculator Works
Calculating the right tablecloth size is simple mathematics. The calculator adds your desired overhang to each side of the table, then converts the measurements between imperial and metric units.
The Core Formula:
For rectangular tables: Tablecloth Length = Table Length + (2 × Overhang)
Tablecloth Width = Table Width + (2 × Overhang)
For round tables: Tablecloth Diameter = Table Diameter + (2 × Overhang)
For square tables: Tablecloth Size = Table Size + (2 × Overhang)
The overhang is the amount of fabric that hangs down from the edge of the table. This is added to both sides (left and right, front and back), which is why we multiply by 2. A 10-inch overhang means the tablecloth extends 10 inches beyond the table edge on all sides.
Understanding Overhang Standards
Casual Dining (8-10 inches / 20-25 cm): This is the most common overhang for everyday use. It provides enough coverage to hide table legs but doesn’t interfere with chairs or become a tripping hazard. Perfect for kitchen tables, breakfast nooks, and casual dining rooms.
Formal Dining (12-15 inches / 30-38 cm): Formal settings require more elegant draping. A longer overhang creates a more luxurious look and is standard for weddings, banquets, and formal dinners. The fabric should reach about knee-height when seated.
Floor-Length (20-30 inches / 51-76 cm): Floor-length tablecloths are used for very formal events or to completely hide unattractive tables. They should just touch the floor or have a slight puddle (1-2 inches extra). Common for wedding reception tables and high-end events.
Quick Tip: For round tables, measure the diameter (straight across through the center). For rectangular tables, measure length (long side) and width (short side). Always measure at the widest points, and round up to the nearest half-inch or centimeter.
Common Tablecloth Sizing Mistakes
Many people get tablecloth sizes wrong. Here are the most frequent mistakes and how to avoid them:
Forgetting to Double the Overhang
The biggest mistake is adding overhang only once per dimension. Remember: overhang is added to BOTH sides. If you want 10 inches of overhang, you need to add 20 inches total (10 inches on the left + 10 inches on the right). Our calculator handles this automatically.
Measuring the Tablecloth Instead of the Table
People often measure their old tablecloth instead of the actual table. Tables can vary slightly in size, and tablecloths stretch or shrink over time. Always measure the table itself, not the existing tablecloth.
Ignoring Table Height
While tablecloth size refers to surface dimensions, the overhang should consider table height too. Standard dining tables are 29-30 inches tall. If your table is significantly taller or shorter, adjust the overhang accordingly. A 30-inch overhang might be floor-length on a standard table but hover above the floor on a taller table.
Not Accounting for Fabric Width
Standard fabric comes in 45-inch, 54-inch, or 60-inch widths. If your tablecloth width exceeds the fabric width, you’ll need to seam pieces together. Our calculator shows how many seams you’ll need based on standard 54-inch fabric.
Country-Specific Considerations
United States
In the USA, table sizes are almost always in inches, and tablecloths are sold in inches. Standard fabric is 54 inches wide. Common table sizes: 42-inch round (kitchen), 60-inch round (dining), 72×36-inch rectangular (buffet). The calculator defaults to inches with centimeter equivalents shown.
Canada
Canada uses both inches and centimeters interchangeably. Fabric is typically sold in centimeters (137 cm wide = 54 inches). Table sizes might be listed in either unit. Our calculator shows both measurements to accommodate Canadian users.
United Kingdom
The UK uses centimeters for table measurements but often refers to fabric in meters. Standard UK fabric width is 137 cm (54 inches). Tablecloth sizes are typically listed in centimeters. The calculator provides accurate metric conversions for UK users.
Australia
Australia uses metric measurements exclusively. Tables are measured in centimeters, fabric in meters. Standard Australian fabric width is 137 cm. The calculator shows metric results first with imperial equivalents for reference.
Important: When buying fabric, remember that pattern repeats and seam allowances require extra material. Add 10-15% to the calculated yardage for pattern matching and cutting errors. Our calculator shows the minimum fabric needed without these extras.
Fabric Requirements and Yardage
How Yardage is Calculated
The calculator assumes standard 54-inch (137 cm) wide fabric. If your tablecloth width is less than 54 inches, you need fabric equal to the length. If wider, you need to seam pieces together.
Example Calculation: A 92×56 inch tablecloth requires fabric 56 inches wide (tablecloth width). Since 56 inches exceeds 54-inch fabric width, we need to seam. We cut two pieces: 92 inches long each, then seam them together to create 108-inch width, then trim to 56 inches.
Total fabric needed: 92 inches × 2 = 184 inches = 5.11 yards (184 ÷ 36).
Standard Fabric Widths:
- 45 inches (114 cm): Quilting cotton, craft fabrics
- 54 inches (137 cm): Standard home decor fabric (most common)
- 60 inches (152 cm): Wider decor fabrics, some linens
- 108 inches (274 cm): Extra-wide for no-seam tablecloths
Seam Placement Considerations
When seaming is necessary, place seams strategically:
- For rectangular tables, run seams parallel to the table length
- Center the seam under the table where it’s least visible
- Match patterns carefully if using patterned fabric
- Use French seams or flat-felled seams for durability
Special Table Types
Oval Tables
Oval tables use the same calculation as rectangular tables. Measure the longest length and widest width. Add double the overhang to both measurements. The resulting rectangular tablecloth will have corners that hang lower than the sides, which is normal for oval tables.
Extension Tables
For tables with leaves, calculate for the extended size if you use the leaves frequently. Alternatively, buy or make two tablecloths: one for regular use and a larger one for when extended. Some people use tablecloth extenders (panels that clip onto the main tablecloth).
Pedestal Tables
Pedestal tables have a central base instead of legs at the corners. You can use a shorter overhang since there are no corner legs to hide. However, the central pedestal might be wider than typical legs, so ensure the overhang clears it.
Square Tables with Rounded Corners
Treat these as square tables. Measure side to side (not corner to corner). The tablecloth will have square corners that extend beyond the rounded table corners, which is acceptable and common.
Pro Tip: When measuring, use a metal tape measure for accuracy. Measure in several places as tables can be slightly uneven. For round tables, measure diameter in multiple directions and use the largest measurement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the standard overhang for a dining table?
For casual dining: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm). For formal dining: 12-15 inches (30-38 cm). Floor-length: 20-30 inches (51-76 cm), depending on table height. The tablecloth should reach about knee-level when seated for formal settings.
How do I measure a round table for a tablecloth?
Measure the diameter (straight across through the center). Don’t measure the circumference. If the table isn’t perfectly round, measure in several directions and use the largest measurement. Add double your desired overhang to get the tablecloth diameter.
Can I use a round tablecloth on a square table?
Yes, but the corners won’t be covered. The round tablecloth should have a diameter equal to the diagonal of the square table plus double the overhang. Formula: Round cloth diameter = (Table side × √2) + (2 × Overhang). This ensures coverage to the corners.
How much extra fabric should I buy for pattern matching?
Add one full pattern repeat per seam. If your fabric has a 24-inch pattern repeat and you need one seam, add 24 inches to the total yardage. Also add 2-3 inches per seam for seam allowances and trimming.
What if my table is an unusual shape?
For irregular shapes, use the “bounding box” method. Measure the longest length and widest width as if drawing a rectangle around the table. Use these measurements in the rectangular table calculator. The tablecloth will be rectangular but will cover the irregular shape.
How do I calculate for a table with a leaf?
Measure the table with the leaf inserted. Calculate tablecloth size based on the extended dimensions. If you rarely use the leaf, consider getting a tablecloth that fits the non-extended table and a separate “bridge” piece for when extended.
Final Advice: When in doubt, go slightly larger. A tablecloth that’s a little too big can be tucked or temporarily hemmed. One that’s too small is unusable. Most standard tablecloth sizes (60″ round, 52×70″ rectangular) work for common table sizes with proper overhang.
Real-World Examples
Example 1: A standard 60-inch round dining table with 12-inch overhang for formal dining. Tablecloth diameter = 60 + (2 × 12) = 84 inches. In centimeters: 152 cm table + (2 × 30 cm) = 212 cm tablecloth.
Example 2: A 72×36-inch buffet table with 10-inch overhang for casual use. Tablecloth length = 72 + 20 = 92 inches. Width = 36 + 20 = 56 inches. Fabric needed: 56 inches wide requires seaming on 54-inch fabric. Need 92 inches × 2 = 184 inches = 5.11 yards.
Example 3: A 48-inch round kitchen table with 8-inch overhang for everyday use. Tablecloth diameter = 48 + 16 = 64 inches. Since 64 inches exceeds 54-inch fabric, need seaming. Actually, 64-inch diameter fits within 64-inch width, so need fabric circle with diameter 64 inches = about 2 yards of 54-inch fabric.
Example 4: A 36-inch square card table with 15-inch overhang for formal event. Tablecloth size = 36 + 30 = 66 inches square. Fabric needed: 66 inches square requires 66-inch wide fabric, so need seaming on 54-inch fabric. Need 66 inches × 2 = 132 inches = 3.67 yards.
Remember: These calculations assume perfect conditions. Always buy a little extra fabric for errors, pattern matching, and shrinkage (if pre-washing). For expensive fabric, make a mock-up with cheap muslin first to verify measurements.