How to Cut and Pin Trim for a Tablecloth

Adding trim to a tablecloth allows you to customize the tablecloth to suit your decor. You can add various styles of trim to compliment holiday or party decor, or to add color to your home. Make or purchase a tablecloth and then embellish with trim to create a one-of-a-kind project.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tablecloth
• Trim
• Scissors
• Pins

1. Determine the type of trim you want on your tablecloth. There are many selections to choose from depending on the look you want for the finished product. If you want something whimsical, then choose a ball trim or sequins. If you want something traditional, then use decorative cording or a coordinating bias tape.

2. Lay your tablecloth out on a large surface like a kitchen table or other empty work surface.

3. Measure each side of your tablecloth if it's a square or rectangle. Add each length together to calculate how much trim you need. If you have a circle tablecloth, measure the diameter, which is the length across the circle at its midpoint, and multiply that number by 3.14 to determine how much trim you need.

4. Place your trim along the edge of your hemmed tablecloth. Sew the trim to the top of the tablecloth or to the underside. Cording, sequins and other short embellishments are best sewn on the right side of the tablecloth along the hem. Tassels and other trims that hang down slightly can be sewn to the underside of the hem so only the decorative portion shows. Bias tape is applied so, once sewn into place, the hem will rest between the two sides of the tape.

5. Insert pins along the trim. Make sure to catch the tablecloth so the trim stays in place.

Tips & Warnings

• When purchasing your trim, get a few additional inches to make sure you have enough.
• More pins are better if you are unsure if the trim will hold while you sew.