We love an organized moment.

For many, the kitchen is the heart of the home—a place of creation, gathering and where meals become moments and memories.
And while these spaces are often designed for function, they deserve a sprinkle of personality and charm, too. One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to add your own flair is with something as simple as a tablecloth.
Whether it’s a splash of color in a monochrome room or a touch of texture in a minimalist space, a tablecloth can effortlessly elevate the aesthetics of a room, making it feel cozier, warmer and undeniably more inviting.
But how do you choose the perfect one for your table? Let’s dive into the basics of selecting the right drop length, size and shape based on your table.
Hungry for more? From holiday tablescapes to everyday dining, our Linens Collection offers something for every occasion and aesthetic.
When setting out to choose the perfect tablecloth, one term you’ll frequently encounter is drop length.
Drop length refers to the portion of the tablecloth that hangs over the edges of the table. It’s the difference between the actual dimensions of the table and the dimensions of the tablecloth. For instance, if your table is 60″ wide and your tablecloth is 70″ wide, you’ll have a 5″ drop length on each side.
While it might seem like a minor detail, the drop length is integral to both the function and form of your dining setting and the functionality and aesthetics of your tablescape.
For functionality, the right drop length ensures that your tablecloth stays in place. Too short, and it might not adequately cover the table, leading to potential damage or staining of the table’s surface. Too long, and guests might accidentally tug on it, causing potential spills.
For aesthetics, the drop length plays a big role in defining the overall look and feel of your dining setting. A longer drop can give a more formal and elegant appearance, while a shorter drop tends to feel casual and laid-back. Here are some general guidelines based on the occasion and look you want to achieve:
Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or just want to spruce up your daily dining, choosing the right tablecloth size can make all the difference. It ensures that your table setting looks elegant and proportionate, giving it both the proper fit and desired aesthetic.
Follow these steps to calculate the ideal tablecloth size for your table:
1. Measure your table.
2. Determine your desired drop length (see the section above for additional details).
3. Calculate your tablecloth size.
4. Factor in potential shrinkage.
If you’re looking at cotton or linen tablecloths, remember that they can shrink after washing. Consider adding an extra 1–2″ to your measurements to accommodate for this.
Once you’ve got your ideal dimensions, you might want to compare them to standard tablecloth sizes available in stores. Oftentimes, there’s a size close enough to your calculated measurements, which can be more convenient and cost-effective than opting for custom-made.
Remember, while these calculations give you the ideal measurements, personal preference plays a role too. It’s your dining space, so choose what feels right and looks best to you!
Round Tables
Square Tables
Rectangular/Oval Tables
**Please note that depending on your desired drop (whether it’s the formal 10–15 inches, casual 6–8 inches, or any other preference), you’ll need to factor that in when choosing a tablecloth. If you find yourself in between standard tablecloth sizes, always opt for the larger size. It’s better to have an extra inch or two than wish you had more coverage.
Table runners usually run the length of the table and overhang on both ends. If you’re shopping for a table runner, keep the following considerations in mind:
Hungry for more? From holiday tablescapes to everyday dining, our Linens Collection offers something for every occasion and aesthetic.
Beautiful.