- 1). Decide whether you want the sew or no-sew tablecloth option. The no-sew is better for casual meals, but will not last as long. The sew cloth will last much longer and looks more elegant and polished.
If you choose the no-sew option, add the smaller measurement in step 2. - 2). Measure your tabletop. Your tablecloth will need a measurement equal to your table dimensions plus 8 to 10 inches on all sides. For instance, if your table measures 36" x 60", your sew-option tablecloth measurement will be 56" x 80"; the no-sew version will measure 52" x 76". (If your table is round or oval, measure its width at the widest point, and add only 6 to 8 inches on all sides.)
If you have a counter-height table, you may want to allow a little extra length on all sides for your tablecloth. Short tablecloth edges sometimes look odd. - 3). Choose your cloth. Traditional Christmas colors are green, red and gold, so you can choose tablecloths in any of these colors. Patterns created by weave are great, but avoid print fabrics, as they look busy on a set table. Ideally, choose fabrics that contrast with your dishes and placemats. Preshrunk material is best. Durable, easy-to-clean cotton and polyester weave will be simple to care for and last for years.
For the no-sew tablecloth: when choosing your cloth, pick a fabric that has a weave width equal to or slightly larger than your narrowest cloth measurement--so if you're looking for a 52" x 76" piece of fabric, choose cloth that measures 54" wide. - 4). Ask the fabric cutter to cut exactly the length of cloth you need, instead of rounding to a yard or half-yard. If you want extra cloth to make placemats or napkins, have that fabric cut separately. If you want any decorations on your tablecloth, get those as well before you leave.
- 5). If you're making a no-sew tablecloth, your last step is finishing the two raw edges. Use scissors to even any uneven spots. Ravel off the last inch or so of loose thread, leaving the other threads alone to make a cut-off style fringe. If you don't ever finish this edge, your tablecloth will not look good after a few washes, but Stop Fraying or a stay-stitch about a half-inch above the raveled part will stabilize the edge.
- 6). For tablecloths that need sewing, stitch a 1-inch hem using matching or contrasting thread all around the tablecloth, including the finished edges on either side (without that hem, the tablecloth looks a little tacky). Wash in delicate cycle and dry. Iron your tablecloth, especially the edges, and put it on your table.
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