White lace-trimmed Moonlinen tablecloth draped over a table against a teal wall

A Tablecloth That Fits Just Right

A tablecloth can change the feeling of a room before you add a single plate. The part that makes it look right is often the drop: how far the fabric hangs below the tabletop.

You do not need to guess from a photograph. A tape measure and two simple sums will tell you what to expect.

Measure the tabletop

For a rectangular or square table, measure its length and width in centimetres. Include any extension leaves you plan to use. For a round table, measure the diameter across the centre.

Choose your drop

For everyday meals, about 15 to 20 cm on each side is a practical starting point. For a more generous dinner setting, try 25 to 30 cm. Check where the cloth will meet the chairs, and choose what feels comfortable in your room.

Tablecloth length = table length + twice the drop.
Tablecloth width = table width + twice the drop.

What our common sizes look like

  • 140 x 140 cm on an 80 x 80 cm table: a 30 cm drop all round.
  • 140 x 140 cm on a 90 x 90 cm table: a 25 cm drop all round.
  • 140 x 210 cm on a 90 x 150 cm table: a 25 cm drop along the sides and 30 cm at the ends.
  • 160 x 220 cm on a 110 x 170 cm table: a 25 cm drop all round.

These are examples, not rules about how many people can sit at a table. Check the exact dimensions on the product page, because sizes differ between collections and colours.

A square cloth on a round table

This gives you four hanging points instead of an even hem. On a round table 90 cm across, a 140 cm square cloth extends 25 cm at the middle of each side, while the corners hang lower. If you like that relaxed shape, it can work beautifully. If you want an even drop all round, you need a round cloth.

When a runner makes more sense

For a long table, or a wooden top you want to show, use a runner and individual napkins. Measure the runner against the table too: it can sit within the tabletop or hang over the ends, depending on its length and the look you want.

Start with our Lace Trim collection for decorative edges, or browse all table linen. The product page is the place to check the exact size and current availability before ordering.

Back to blog