How to Make a Tablecloth for an Event

Round tablecloths add sophistication to your event.

Any number of special occasions can qualify as important events. Round tables are the perfect choice for special functions for so many reasons. These versatile tables allow for a more intimate seating arrangement at a large event. Conversing is easier than at a rectangular table where the guests at the end often cannot hear what is going on or are left out. Most round tables are expandable, using extension leafs. Round tablecloths add a refined, tasteful touch to any event. Fabric colors and designs in an unlimited variety are available to meet your decorating needs. Elegant round table cloths are more simple to make than they appear.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Fabric
• Scissors
• String
• Tailor's chalk
• Straight pins
• Sewing machine

Instructions

1. Measure the diameter of your round table. Consider this measurement to be both the length and the width of your table. Record the measurement.

2. Add two times the length of the desired fabric drop over the table edge plus a 2-inch seam.

   For example, if your table is 60 inches in diameter and you desire a 10-inch fabric drop at the table edge, add 60 + 20 + 2 to determine a 62-inch length and 62-inch width for your fabric requirement. Divide that total number by two to determine the radius to be used in a later step.

3. Lay the material on a clean, flat surface. Use scissors to cut a piece of fabric according to the length and width measurements you recorded. This should be a perfect square.

4. Fold the fabric panel in half. Fold fabric in half again along the folded edge. You now have a four-layer-thick square. All the folded edges are along one side.

5. Cut a piece of string the length of the radius determined in Step 2 and tie a piece of tailor's chalk at one end. Hold the other string end firmly at the corner of the folded fabric where the folds meet. Start at one edge and, pulling the string taught, make a chalk arc, using the string length as the guide.

6. Cut through the layers of fabric using the chalk arc as your guide. Open the round shape.

7. Fold the edge of the fabric toward the back side by 2 inches and secure it as you work around the tablecloth edge, using straight pins.

8. Machine-stitch around the tablecloth, 1-1/2-inches from the folded edge, removing the pins as you go along.

9. Press the hem flat, using an iron placed at the appropriate heat setting for the tablecloth fabric. Add beads, fringe or other embellishment, if desired.

References

• 90 Round Tablecloth: Tablecloth Videos
• Marcus Fabrics; Make It with Marcus; Circular Tablecloth; Lisa Shepard, August 2011
• Ready to Cover; Round Tables; You Tube; Making a Table Skirt; 2011