How to Sew Formal Tablecloths

In a formal dining room, the look of the table is key for setting the tone of the meal. A beautiful tablecloth can not only protect the table from food mess and liquid spills, but it also can serve as an ideal backdrop for a dinner party. The material you choose for your tablecloth can coordinate with a theme or the season, or match in color and print the design aesthetic of the rest of the home. With basic sewing skills, you can create an inviting tablecloth to meet your decorating needs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure your table. Note of the length and width of a rectangular table. For round tables, measure the diameter.

2

Assess the "drop" of your tablecloth. The drop is the amount of material that hangs below the surface of the table. This can be as little as several inches or as much as several feet, depending on the height of your table. A long, elegant drop will create a sense of formality in the room, but it's not advisable to let the tablecloth extend to the floor.

3

Create a pattern for your tablecloth on a piece of muslin or butcher paper based on your table surface measurements and drop length. Before cutting, add two inches to each measurement on your tablecloth to account for seam allowance. A clean, professional-looking hem is essential to creating a formal tablecloth.

4

Position your pattern over your tablecloth. Pin it in place with straight pins and trace. Cut out your material and lay it flat on a surface, print-side down. On each side, fold the fabric over one inch and press it flat with an iron. Fold over one more inch and press again.

5

Pin in place any decorative detailing. Trim such as piping or a ruffle can make a charming, decorative statement to a formal tablecloth. Hide exposed trim within the fold of the hem.

6

Sew the hem of your tablecloth with a straight stitch. Be sure the weight of your tablecloth is supported on a table as you sew to prevent pulling or puckering on your seam. For a custom detail, add a zigzag or other decorative stitch in a contrasting shade along the hem.

7

Cut off any excess material or loose threads. Use a steamer or iron to smooth out any wrinkles once the tablecloth is in place.