Download our Table Talk Guide
A beautifully dressed table is the first thing guests notice and the last thing they forget. But getting there starts long before the event: it starts with the right measurements. Our Table Talk guide distills everything you need to confidently size linen for any table, any room, any occasion.
Know the Table Measurements
Before you can choose a tablecloth, you need four numbers: length (L), width (W), height (H), and diameter (D) for round tables. The height is especially important because it determines how far your linen will fall on each side.
Choose Drop Style
The “drop” is how far the linen falls below the tabletop edge. The three most common looks each create a distinct mood for your event.
Use the Right Sizing Formula
To find a full-drop linen size, add the table height twice (once per side) to each dimension. Here’s a quick reference:
When a linen size is marked *Customize, pinning will be needed to achieve a perfect floor-length fit without any permanent alterations to the cloth. This is common with square tables using round linens, or oversized rounds used for fullness.
Don’t Forget Specialty Tables
Highboys (42″ tall), serpentine sections, half-round tables, and large 90″–96″ banquet rounds all have their own linen requirements. For highboys, a 132″ round can be tied off mid-leg with a chair tie or cuff for an hourglass effect. For very large rounds, overlapping multiple 132″ linens is the standard approach. Always confirm actual table dimensions with your rental supplier, as pedestal bases and wheel clearance can affect sizing.
Download the Full Guide
The complete Table Talk reference chart covers every common table type (round, square, banquet, half-round, serpentine, and highboy) with cloth sizes and coverage options for each configuration. Keep it on hand for planning meetings, venue walkthroughs, and day-of setups.
