How to choose the right size tablecloth

Measure your tabletop, then add your preferred overhang twice to find your tablecloth size. For rectangle and square tables, do this for both the length and width. For round tables, measure across the centre. Sizes shown on our website are tablecloth measurements.

How much overhang should you allow?

Around 15 to 25 cm is a useful starting point. Choose what looks good and works with your chairs and the way you use your table. The overhang does not have to be identical at the ends and sides. Read more about choosing your overhang.

How much overhang for your tablecloth

Rectangle tables

Measure the length and width of your tabletop. Add your preferred overhang twice to each measurement, allowing for both ends and both sides.

For a 160 × 110 cm table with 20 cm overhang all around:

  • Length: 160 + 20 + 20 = 200 cm
  • Width: 110 + 20 + 20 = 150 cm

Choose a 200 × 150 cm tablecloth.

Round tables

Measure straight across the centre of your tabletop. This is its diameter. Add your preferred overhang twice.

For a table measuring 140 cm across with 20 cm overhang on each side: 140 + 20 + 20 = 180 cm. Choose a 180 cm round tablecloth.

Square tables

Measure the length and width of your tabletop to check that it is square. Add your preferred overhang twice to each measurement.

For a 110 × 110 cm table with 20 cm overhang all around: 110 + 20 + 20 = 150 cm. Choose a 150 × 150 cm square tablecloth.

Already found a tablecloth you like?

Subtract your table measurement from the tablecloth measurement, then divide by two. Do this for the length and width to see how much overhang you will have.

For example, a 200 × 150 cm tablecloth on a 160 × 90 cm table gives 20 cm overhang at each end and 30 cm overhang along each side.

Seating labels are approximate. Always check your table measurements and preferred overhang before choosing.

What about oval tables?

Measure your tabletop at its longest and widest points, then add your preferred overhang twice to each measurement. A rectangle tablecloth can be used on an oval table, but the drop around the curved edges will vary. Contact us with your measurements if you would like help choosing.

Need a different size?

Need a size you cannot find? Contact us with your tabletop measurements, preferred overhang and design. We can custom make selected fabrics or discuss other ways to achieve a suitable fit. Widths vary by fabric. Our linen and linen cotton blend can be custom made up to 300 cm wide.

Explore our round tablecloths, rectangle tablecloths and square tablecloths to find a design you love.

6 thoughts on How to choose the right size tablecloth

Annabel Gleeson

I’ve recently bought an oval table 1.7m long and 1.2m wide. With 20cm overhang as suggested, do you have any oval table cloths 1.9m long x 1.4m wide in the treated fabric ? Or else I suppose I need a rectangle that’s close or get a custom job?

October 08, 2026 at 03:42PM

Geoff Bird

Sue
My table is 2.5 × 900. NOT Allowing for overhang. I have purchased from you before.
What do you have in a suitable size and colours preferably blues. Not too loud. Robust in terms of cleaning.

February 27, 2026 at 02:26PM

Erina Walker

Sue, I’ve purchased your tablecloths for gifts, but my own table is an oval gate leg and I’m not sure which I should buy? Advice please!
Erins

February 27, 2026 at 12:02PM

samantha

Hi, I am looking for a round table cloth in a tumeric or fenugreek colour. It is for a table that is 1.2 diameter. Do you have anything suitable … even in a neutral. I am wanting a linen fabric, not cotton.
Thanks
Samantha

January 13, 2026 at 07:28AM

Jenny Kovacic

Hell to all at French Affair, the table I use most these days is oblong 35” by 59” with a 5” drop what size should I order please.
Kind regards Jenny K

October 13, 2025 at 08:27PM

Carol

HI table size is 180cm x 105cm can you custom size so overhang is the same all round?

October 13, 2025 at 08:26PM

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