How to Make a Round Tablecloth

Make a tablecloth for a round dining table or round end table by following a few simple steps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fabrics
• Sewing Machine
• Threads
• Scissors
• Scissors
• Pencils
• Pencils
• String
• Pencils

Make a Pattern and Cut the Fabric for Your Tablecloth

1. Locate a piece of paper that is slightly larger than one-half the diameter of your table (you'll use this paper to make a pattern for cutting the fabric).

2. Tie a string around the end of a pencil and cut the string to a length that equals half the diameter of the tablecloth.

3. Secure the end of the string into one corner of the sheet of paper with a thumbtack.

4. Draw a quarter circle on the paper, pulling the string taut. Cut out the pattern.

5. Fold the fabric in half. Make a smaller square by folding the fabric in half again.

6. Place the point of the pattern over the center point of the folded fabric. Pin the paper pattern into place and cut out the fabric.

Sew the Tablecloth

7. Fold under the raw edge of the fabric and stitch by machine.

8. Form a hem allowance by pressing 3/4 inch from the edge. Stitch the hem into place by machine or by hand.

Determine the Amount of Fabric You'll Need

9. Measure the diameter of your table.

10. Add the diameter of the table to twice the table's height if you want a floor-length tablecloth.

11. Add the diameter of the table to twice the desired length if you want a shorter tablecloth. (Measure the distance from the edge of the table to the desired length.)

12. Add 1 1/2 inches to your measurements to allow for a 3/4-inch hem around the bottom of the tablecloth.

13. Use this figure for both length and width of the material you will need.

Tips & Warnings

• If your fabric is narrower than the total diameter of the tablecloth, sew fabric seams together. Use a full width of fabric for the center panel and half widths on the sides.
• Buy extra-wide pieces of fabric to avoid having to make seams in large tablecloths.

on 8/1/2006 Instead of hemming your round tablecloth, use self-covered cord or purchased cord in a coordinating or complementary color to finish the bottom.

on 11/22/2005 If you need a tablecloth that will not move (for playing cards or dominoes, for example), sew elastic around the edge. This works especially well for a large round table if you use craft felt that is 72-74 inches wide.

on 11/22/2005 Instead of having to piece together fabric that's not wide enough, you can use a bed sheet. They come in many different colors and patterns. They are great for round table covers. Figure your measurements and cut a big circle out of the middle. Make sure you check the label for the dimensions and buy one that's big enough for your table.