How to measure your table for table cloth and other FAQ's

Adding a tablecloth to a table, be it the kitchen table that is eaten at daily or a formal dining room table, our linen oilcloth will instantly elevate its appearance. This isn't just my view (a little biased you might argue!), The Times newspaper recently reported the findings of an academic research paper on tablecloth of all topics, the research had found that dinner actually tasted better when eaten at a table covered with a cloth. 

That said, the tablecloth needs to be of the correct size, too short and the cloth won't drape elegantly over the edges, which is one of the qualities of our linen oilcloth tablecloth. Too long and the table will be swamped and the overhanging excess will be an annoyance to your fellow diners. 

So here is our guide to all you need to know and consider when measuring and ordering oilcloth.

How to measure your table for oilcloth

Our step by step guide to measuring your table for oilcloth, ordering the correct size and how your order is dispatched.

1. Clear the table of any detritus! It's so much easier to measure a clear flat surface, void of homework, stray toys and newspapers.
2. If your table is extendable, consider which version of your table you are purchasing the oilcloth for. If you are measuring tor the extended table add in the extra leaves/fix the gate leg, to enable accurate measurements to be taken.
3. Measure the width. I use an extendable tape measure, I find it easier to hook the end on the table to get an exact measurement. Measure across the table, hooking the end on the far side of the table and taking note of the measurement on the nearest side.
4. Measure the length. Again start at the furthest end, hooking the tape on the edge of the table and then taking note of the measurement at the closest end.
5. Decide on how much overhang (also referred to as drop length) you wish to have at either end, we generally recommend between 20cm - 30 cm, any less and the cloth will look mean, any more and the excess will be an inconvenience.
6. Calculate the size of table and the amount of oilcloth required:

How to measure an oval table for oilcloth

1. Measuring an oval table follows the same instructions as before, follow the same steps as above, deciding on your desired overhang and measure the width of the table.
2. Measure the length at the longest point of the oval table.

How to order the desired size on our website

1. Click onto the oilcloth category and select the design you would like to order. 
2. To the right of the product image there is a drop down box, there is an option to select a sample size or a 1/2 metre size. 
3. Select the 1/2 metre option and below there is a quantity box. To order the 2 metre length we have calculated for our table, would equate to 4 x 1/2 metre units.
4. Enter 4 in the quantity box. Our oilcloth fabric is 140 cm, so the piece you will receive will measure 2 metres long x 140 cm wide 

Folded or Rolled?