The length of the tablecloth from the edge of the table to the bottom of the cloth is the drop. Always include the drop length in your tablecloth measurements.

There are three common drop lengths: short, 10″ to 12″ (25.5 to 30.5 cm); mid-length, 16″ to 24″ (40.5 to 61 cm); and floor-length, 28″ to 29″ (71 to 73.5 cm). Short cloths end at about chair seat height and are good tablecloths for everyday use. Mid-length cloths are more formal. Elegant floor-length coverings are used for buffet and decorator tables.

Round tablecloth: Measure the diameter of the table, and then determine the drop length of the cloth. The size of the tablecloth is the diameter of the table plus twice the drop length plus 1″ (2.5 cm) for a

narrow hem allowance. A narrow hem is the easiest way to finish the curved edge of a round tablecloth. Square tablecloth: Measure the width of the tabletop; then determine the drop length of the cloth. Add twice the drop length plus I” (2.5 cm) for a narrow hem allowance or 2W’ (6.5 cm) for a wide hem allowance.

 

Rectangular tablecloth: Measure the length and width of the tabletop, then determine the drop length of the cloth. The size of the finished tablecloth is the width of the tabletop plus twice the drop length, and the length of the tabletop plus twice the drop length. Add I” (2.5 cm) for a narrow hem or 2W’ (6.5 cm) for a wide hem.

Oval tablecloth: Measure the length and width of the tabletop, then determine the drop length of the cloth.

Join fabric widths as necessary to make a rectangular cloth the length of the tabletop plus twice the drop length, and the width of the tabletop plus twice the drop length; add I” (2.5 cm) to each dimension for a narrow hem allowance. Put a narrow hem in an oval tablecloth because it is the simplest way to finish the

curved edge. Because oval tables vary in shape, mark the finished size with the fabric on the table. Place weights on the table to hold fabric in place, then use a hem marker or cardboard gauge to mark the drop length evenly.

Article from: Singer sewing for the Home (copyright 1984-1988)