What this calculator does
Tablecloth size is the table dimension plus twice the drop, since the cloth hangs over both sides. A 180 by 90 cm table with a 25 cm drop needs a 230 by 140 cm cloth.
The drop is the decision, and it is what distinguishes a casual setting from a formal one. Around 20 to 30 cm suits everyday dining and lets people sit comfortably. A formal drop of 38 cm reaches roughly to the seat of the chair, and floor length, used for display tables, is typically 70 to 75 cm.
The formula
Twice the drop is added to each dimension of the table, because the cloth overhangs on both sides. For a round table the same addition is made to the diameter. The result is the finished cloth size, so add a hem allowance if you are making rather than buying one.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Drop | How far the cloth hangs below the table edge, measured on one side. |
| Casual drop | Roughly 20 to 30 cm, which clears laps and suits everyday use. |
| Formal drop | Around 38 cm, reaching to about chair seat height. |
| Floor length | A drop equal to the table height, usually 70 to 75 cm, used for display and buffet tables. |
The inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Table shape | Rectangular covers square tables too; use the round option for circular ones. |
| Table length (cm) | Table length in centimetres. |
| Table width (cm) | Table width in centimetres. |
| Table diameter (round) (cm) | Table diameter, used only for round tables. |
| Desired drop (cm) | How far the cloth should hang on each side. This is the choice that sets the look. |
When to use it
Buying a cloth for a specific table
Cloths are sold in fixed sizes, and knowing the target means picking the nearest rather than guessing.
Making a cloth
The calculated figure is the finished size, so fabric has to be cut larger by the hem allowance on every edge.
Hiring linen for an event
Hire companies quote by cloth size rather than by table size, and the drop determines which one to order.
Worked examples
Every figure in the tables below is produced by this page’s own calculator at build time, so the numbers and the tool always agree. Select any row to load that scenario.
What size cloth does a 180 × 90 cm table need?
The same table with a range of drops.
| Drop each side | Tablecloth size needed | In inches | Drop, each side |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 cm | 210 × 120 cm | 82.7 × 47.2 in | 15 cm |
| 20 cm | 220 × 130 cm | 86.6 × 51.2 in | 20 cm |
| 25 cm | 230 × 140 cm | 90.6 × 55.1 in | 25 cm |
| 30 cm | 240 × 150 cm | 94.5 × 59.1 in | 30 cm |
| 38 cm | 256 × 166 cm | 100.8 × 65.4 in | 38 cm |
Questions
How much drop should a tablecloth have?
Around 20 to 30 cm for everyday dining, which clears laps without bunching. About 38 cm for formal settings, reaching roughly to the chair seat. Floor length, typically 70 to 75 cm, is for display and buffet tables where nobody sits.
What size cloth for a 180 cm table?
With a 25 cm drop, 230 cm long. The width follows the same rule: a 90 cm wide table needs 140 cm. Always add twice the drop, once for each side, which is the step most often missed.
Does a round table work the same way?
Yes. Add twice the drop to the diameter, so a 120 cm round table with a 25 cm drop needs a 170 cm cloth. Round cloths are sold by diameter, so that is the number to look for.
Should I add for hems if I am making one?
Yes. The calculated size is the finished cloth, so add your hem allowance to every edge on top of it. Between 2 and 5 cm per edge is usual depending on the hem style, which means 4 to 10 cm on each overall dimension.
For balloon decoration at the same event, see the balloon arch calculator. For working out how many people fit, see the event seating calculator.