Tablecloth Measuring Guide

A well-sized tablecloth instantly elevates the table. This guide shows how to measure your table and choose the right drop for everyday use or special occasions.
If you’d like us to confirm sizing and calculate the price, message us your measurements and include your country + postal code.

What you’ll need

Measuring tape
Notes app / paper
(Optional) a helper

Before you measure

Decide your drop (how far the cloth hangs down from the table edge). Typical drops:
- Everyday: 15–25 cm (6–10")
- Dressy: 25–38 cm (10–15")
- Formal / statement: longer drop (optional, depends on your table and setting)
Measure in cm or inches — just stay consistent.
If your table has leaves, measure it the way you’ll use it most often (leaves in or out).

Step 1 — Identify your table shape

To help you choose the correct shape, select the option that matches your table:

Rectangle / Square – Straight, clean corners. Choose it for rectangular or square tables.
Oval – Softly rounded edges that follow the natural curve of an oval table.
Round – Even, symmetrical drop all around.

✅ INSERT SCHEMA #1 — Table types & where to measure (L, W, and L2)

Table measuring diagram showing four table shapes and where to measure length (L) and width (W), with an additional L2 measurement for one oval table type.

In the schema:

W = Width (side to side)
L = Length (end to end)
L2 (only for table type #2) = the straight middle section length (helps us match that oval shape more accurately)

Step 2 — Measure your table (edge to edge on the tabletop)

Measure across the tabletop, not underneath.

Rectangle / Square table

Measure W and L

Round table

Measure diameter (across the center)

Oval table

Measure W (widest point) and L (end to end)
If your oval matches table type #2 in the schema: also measure L2

Step 3 — Choose your drop (how far it hangs down)

Your drop is how far you want the tablecloth to hang down on one side.

Important: the drop is added on both sides of the table.

Total extra fabric = 2 × desired drop

Example:

If you want a 25 cm drop on each side → add 50 cm total to the width, and 50 cm total to the length.

This is the most common mistake — people add the drop only once.

Step 4 — Calculate your tablecloth size

Rectangle / Square / Oval

Tablecloth width = W + (2 × desired drop)
Tablecloth length = L + (2 × desired drop)

Round

Tablecloth diameter = table diameter + (2 × desired drop)

Common mistakes

Forgetting to add the drop on both sides (×2)
Measuring with table leaves in/out incorrectly
Not mentioning your table is oval type #2 (and skipping L2)
Measuring the base instead of the tabletop edge
Choosing a drop that’s too long for everyday use (can catch on chairs / trap moisture)