Stylish restaurant tablecloths are easy and inexpensive to make for your own home.
Making a tablecloth is a fun and fast project, though it may take a bit longer if you are new to sewing. The following instructions are for a circular tablecloth, but can easily be adapted to make square or rectangular tablecloths as well, simply by altering the measurements and skipping step 3. Once the basic tablecloth is completed, it's easy to add embellishments and personal touches such as beads, tassels and embroidery to give your tablecloth a unique flair. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Determine how much fabric is required
1. Measure the diameter of the table and add 1-1/2 inches to that number. Measure the height of the table and multiply that number by 2 to determine the length of the drop or overhang (note: this is assuming the tablecloth is to reach the ground. Alter the measurement accordingly if the desired length is less than floor-length, but still multiply this number by 2). Now add the 2 numbers together as follows:
(Diameter of table + 1.5'') + (Height of table x 2) = Diameter of fabric required
2. Create a square with the desired length by cutting and stitching together panels of fabric. If, for example, in step 1 the diameter of fabric required = 70 inches, the square will need to be 70 x 70 inches. Since fabric usually comes in either 45 inch or 54 inch widths, for this example, assume fabric of 45 inch width is being used. Cut one panel of cloth 70'' long for the center panel. Allowing for 1/2 inch on either side for seam allowances, this panel should be measured as 70 x 44 inches. Twenty six inches will need to be added to complete the square. The extra cloth should be added on to both sides of the center panel, so two panels, each 13 inches wide, are required. Adding 1/2 inch to both panels for seam allowances, they actually need to be 13-1/2 inches wide each. Make sure the square is correct, then stitch the pieces together. Note that a bigger table may require more panels.
3. On a big, clean, flat surface, fold fabric width-wise, then length-wise, creating a square four layers thick, with all folds on one side. Pin together the edges so they don't move around. Starting from the corner fold, measure half of the finished tablecloth size (this should reach the bottom edge). Slowly move the tape measure towards the upper edge, following it with a marking pen in order to trace an arc or quarter circle on the fabric. Cut along the arc (through all four layers) to achieve a circular piece of cloth.
4. Create a hem all the way around the tablecloth by turning the fabric under 1/4 inch and then another 1/2 inch. Use an iron to press the folds, then pin them for accuracy. Sew the hem with a sewing machine or by hand (if you are using a sewing machine, use a hem stitch for a neat, secure hem. If the machine does not have a hem stitch, backstitch can also be used for a nice finish).
Tags: fabric required, center panel, desired length, four layers, inches wide, seam allowances