How to Make Your Own Table Covers

Every now and then, you may feel that your home needs something new. Perhaps a new home décor accent such as a wall hanging or a centerpiece on a table would serve to brighten up a room. If you choose to decorate your table, it is actually fairly easy to make your own table covers. You may choose to simply cover the middle of your table with a small table topper. You may also like either a table runner or a cover for the entire table.

Things You'll Need

• Measurements for your table
• Checklist with table details and budget
• Your choice of fabric yardage and backing fabric, and any assorted trims
• Sewing machine, thread, scissors, measuring tape, pins
• Instructions to assemble the table cover

Instructions

1. Determine which type of table cover you want to make (topper, runner, full cover). Then gather your measurements and make your checklist.

2. Purchase your choice of fabric yardage, as well as the backing fabric and any trims you may want.

3. Measure accurately. Measure and cut all fabric according to your table measurements and choice of cover. Be sure to add 2 inches on all sides to allow for seams for toppers and runners, or 6 to 8 inches on all sides for the drop on a full table cover.

4. Match the right sides of the fabric to the right sides of the lining (batting on either top or bottom if you chose a quilted cover) and pin the edges. Carefully sew around the edges, leaving about 4 inches open for turning the cover right side out.

5. Turn the cover right side out and iron. Turn under the raw edges at the opening and pin it closed. Carefully sew close to the edges, making sure to catch in the opening edges to conceal them. If you chose the quilted cover, decide on a simple topstitching design to enhance your cover, which also helps hold all the layers together. Add your trims around the edges, if you choose.

6. Place on your table and enjoy your new home décor accent.

Tips & Warnings

• Determine which type of table cover you plan to make, to assist you in getting the proper measurements and materials list. For instance, decide if you want your cover to be a tablecloth type of cover, or a quilted table topper or runner.

• Shop around for the best prices on your choice of fabric and lining yardage, as well as batting, if you decide on a quilted cover.

• Don’t be afraid to ask salespeople for assistance in purchasing fabric, especially if you are unfamiliar with figuring yardage for your choice of table cover.

• Make sure to carefully measure all fabrics BEFORE cutting.

• Always be careful while cutting fabric, especially if children are around.

• Always be careful and attentive while operating a sewing machine, especially if children are around.