Can I Use a Rectangle Tablecloth on an Oval Table

Like icing on a cake, the right tablecloth sweetens the look of your dining area and tops off your table to perfection. That's why it's so important to choose not only the right material, color, and pattern, but also the right size. We've gathered all the essential details you need to know about tablecloth sizes. Learn how to pick the right tablecloth for your table with this tablecloth sizing guide.

Standard Tablecloth Shapes

The first step in choosing the perfect tablecloth is to align it with the shape of your table. The most common tablecloth shapes are: oval, round, oblong/rectangle, and square.

How to Measure Your Table for A Tablecloth

Measuring for a tablecloth is almost as simple as grabbing a tape measure and calculating the length and width of the table. But while that's an important part of the equation, it's not the only thing that matters. To get the ideal measurements, follow these simple steps:

• Prepare the table: Clear the table of any dishes or other items. Remove or add any leaves that allow you to make your table larger or smaller if you have an extendable table.
• Measure the top: For the easiest way to get the length and width of your square or rectangular table, measure from edge to edge for the width. Repeat the process on the perpendicular sides to calculate the length. For a round table, measure the diameter, which is the length of the widest point from edge to edge.
• Add in the drop: "Drop" refers to the amount of fabric you want to hang down from the tabletop. We consider 10 inches to be pretty standard, but there are different situations that call for different drop lengths.
• Do a little math: Double the desired drop and add it onto the measurements of your table. For example, if you want a drop of 10 inches and your table's 68 inches long, you would add 20 to 68 inches for a length of 88 inches. Do the same for the width. If you have a round table, add the doubled drop to the diameter. For example, if you have a table with a 50-inch diameter and you want that standard 10-inch drop, you need a 70-inch round tablecloth.

See the chart below to quickly gauge the size that's best for your table. Use it as a reference, substituting the true dimensions of your table.

Tablecloth Size Chart

If you're having a tablecloth custom-made, you can dictate the tablecloth size to a tee. But, if you're shopping for tablecloths online or in stores, you're likely going to come across options in standard sizes, which typically differ by table shape. Can't find the size you need? Round up and choose the next largest size for the tablecloth that will work best.

Shape Types	Table Size	Tablecloth Size	Seating
Oval	36″ x 60″ to 48″ x 72″	60″ x 84″	6 – 8
	36″ x 80″ to 48″ x 92″	60″ x 104″	8 – 10

Round (Floor Length)	36″	96″	4
	48″	108″	4 – 6
	54″	114″	6 – 8
	60″	120″	8 – 10
	72″	132″	10 – 12

Oblong	28″ x 46″ to 40″ x 58″	52″ x 70″	4 – 6
	36″ x 60″ to 48″ x 72″	60″ x 64″	6 – 8
	36″ x 80″ to 48″ x 92″	60″ x 104″	8 – 10
	36″ x 96″ to 48″ x 108″	60″ x 120″	10 – 12
	36″ x 124″ to 48″ x 126″	60″ x 144″	14 – 16

Square	24″ x 24″	41″ x 41″	2 – 4
	28″ x 28″	45″ x 45″	4
	30″ x 30″	52″ x 52″	4
	42″ x 42″	61″ x 61″	4 – 6
	48″ x 48″	71″ x 71″	6 – 8

Banquet Style	30″ x 48″	52″ x 69″	4 – 6
	30″ x 72″	52″ x 92″	6 – 8

Circular

60″ x 72″

85″ x 85″

8 – 10

Deciding on Tablecloth Drop

Unless you want the tablecloth to just go edge to edge, you need to add extra length and width to allow for drop or overhang. Consider different overhang lengths for different circumstances. In fact, the amount of overhang your tablecloth has can very well set the tone for the meal. That's true whether you're serving a casual brunch or a formal, sit-down dinner.

For example:

• Casual meals and events work well with 6- to 8-in. overhang
• For everyday versatility, choose a tablecloth with a 10-in. overhang
• For formal dinners and events, choose tablecloths with a 15-in. overhang

When choosing a tablecloth, other considerations include color and material. White and off-white are classic and versatile options that never go out of style. Rich colors may enhance guests' appetites and add pop to the room. Material choices dictate the drape, stain-resistance and care of your new tablecloth. For easy care, choose microfiber or cotton blends.

A few measurements and planning are well worth the time when shopping for a tablecloth, and they'll lay the foundation for a well-dressed table. Now all that's left is to put the tablecloth on your table and start setting it. Bon appetit!

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Can I Use a Rectangle Tablecloth on an Oval Table

Source: https://www.hayneedle.com/tips-and-ideas/tablecloth-size-guide/

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