Confidently Measure Any Round Table with Easy Techniques

Having a perfectly fitted tablecloth can transform an ordinary table into an elegant centerpiece for any occasion. However, getting the right fit for a round tablecloth requires some special measuring techniques to ensure accuracy.

Gather Your Measuring Tools

Before starting any project, it's important to gather the necessary tools. For measuring a round table, you will need:

• A flexible tape measure that can conform to curved edges
• A yardstick or ruler for straight measurements
• A pencil and paper to note measurements
• A spirit level (optional) to check table levelness

Find the Center Point

To measure diameter correctly, you need to first locate the middle point of the table. Simply place your tape measure across the center of the tabletop and mark the center point with your pencil on both sides of the table.

Determine the Diameter

Now measure from edge to edge through the center point to determine the diameter. Because table edges may not be perfectly round, take more than one diameter measurement around the table and average them.

Use the flexible tape for this to account for any irregularities in the table's shape as you measure.

Account for Table Shape

While examining the table edges, check if they form a perfect circle. Older round tables often lose their ideal shape over years of use. Slight diameter adjustments may be needed if edges seem distorted or dented.

Consider Table Height

The height of a round table impacts the necessary tablecloth drop length. Using your measuring tape, note the height from the floor up to the tabletop. A standard 30" dining table needs at least an 18" drop length for the right proportion.

Check the Table's Levelness

A table that is not level can seem larger or smaller than its actual size. Place a spirit level in the center to see if your table is perfectly even. Adjust accordingly before finalizing diameter measurements.

If you don't have a spirit level, you can check by placing a marble on the surface to see which direction it rolls.

Allow for Decorative Elements

Will you be adding a lovely lace overlay or decorative table runner? Make sure to account for the dimensions of any additional decorative elements that will sit on the table surface.

For example, allow an extra 18 inches all around if using a standard 14 inch wide runner.

Calculate Drop Length and Overhang

The "drop length" refers to how far the tablecloth falls from the edge of the table. For a formal look, choose a drop between 10 to 30 inches. Whatever you pick, multiply by two to get the amount of overhang around the circumference.

So for a 15 inch drop length, you'd need an overhang of 30 inches. Add this to the diameter measurement to get the total tablecloth size needed.

Test Table Stability

Once your beautiful new tablecloth is on, gently push down on the edges of the table. Make sure it sits solidly without rocking or wobbling which could result in spilled drinks!

If unstable, try adjusting the floor protectors under the table legs to improve stability. Safety first when guests come to dine.

Measure for Table Skirts (Optional)

For a gorgeous full table presentation, you may wish to add a floor-length cloth skirt around the bases of dining tables.

Carefully measure the height you want the skirt to fall, as well as the length of the edges you aim to cover. This ensures a custom fit that beautifully showcases table bases.

Dressing a round table is easy if you know how to measure. Just remember to account for irregular edges, allow for decorations, calculate drop overhang, and check stability.