Crafting A Wedding: Tablecloth Edition

Planning a wedding can be expensive, but making your own tablecloths can save you money and add a personal touch to your big day. You don't need to be an expert sewer to make your own tablecloths, and it can be a fun project. The first step is to measure the tables you'll be using, adding a few inches for the tablecloth to hang over the edge. Then, decide on the colours and fabric you want to use, and cut the fabric to size. If you don't want to sew a hem, you can use iron-on fabric tape or cut the fabric with pinking shears to avoid fraying. Finally, you can add embellishments like ribbons, stamps, or felt strips to make your tablecloths unique.

Choosing the right fabric

The right fabric can make all the difference in the overall look and feel of your wedding tables. It's important to consider the theme or style of your wedding, the colours you want to use, and the practicality of the fabric.

Formal or Relaxed?

If you're going for a formal affair, luxury textiles like silk, satin, or linen are a good choice. These fabrics provide a luscious feel to the tables but can be expensive. For a more relaxed wedding, polyester, spandex, or cotton are low-maintenance, high-value materials that hold up well over multiple events and washes.

Stain-Resistant and Wrinkle-Resistant

If you're worried about spills and stains, choose a fabric that is durable and stain-resistant. Polyester and spandex are great options for outdoor weddings as they have stain-repellent properties. You should also consider a fabric that is wrinkle-resistant, such as a poly-cotton blend or satin, to ensure your tables look neat and crisp all night long.

Easy to Clean

If you plan on washing your tablecloths after the wedding, choose a fabric that is easy to clean and maintain. A poly-cotton blend is a good option as it is more durable and wrinkle-resistant than 100% cotton. Cotton is also a popular choice as it is easy to care for and relatively inexpensive.

Complementary Colours

The tablecloth should complement the other colours in the room. Consider the overall colour palette of your wedding and choose a tablecloth that fits within this scheme. You can also add personal touches to your tablecloths, such as embroidery or other custom designs.

Thick and Opaque

As wedding planner Wendy Kay notes, "You want something that is thick and not see-through... You also want it to be the correct size and drape nicely on the table." Avoid flimsy fabrics that are too thin or transparent. Make sure to measure your tables and choose a fabric that will hang nicely and provide a generous drape.

Budget-Friendly Options

If you're on a tight budget, consider using the white tablecloths provided by your venue and adding a layer of tulle or organza for an elegant look. You can also rent tablecloths, but be aware that they may be of lower quality and will need to be steamed and dry-cleaned. Alternatively, buy polyester tablecloths, which are affordable and can be used for multiple events.

Measuring tables

Measuring your tables is the first step in making your own wedding tablecloths. This will help you determine the amount of fabric you need and ensure your DIY tablecloths fit your tables perfectly. Here's a guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Extend or Shrink the Table

If your tables have removable leaves or attachments, start by deciding on the size you'll typically use with the tablecloth. For a day-to-day tablecloth, keep the table at its normal size. If you're making a formal tablecloth for special occasions, measure the table at its maximum size.

Step 2: Measure Table Length and Width

Use a tape measure to find the length and width of your tables. For square tables, these measurements will be the same. Measure from the centre of the table, especially if it's an oval shape. Write down these measurements.

Step 3: Decide on the Drop Length

The drop length is how far you want your tablecloth to hang over the edge of the table. For a formal look, you might want the tablecloth to reach the floor, especially if you want to hide unattractive table legs. A typical dining tablecloth has a drop length of 6 to 12 inches, but you can go longer or shorter depending on your preference.

Step 4: Calculate Tablecloth Length and Width

To find the ideal length for your tablecloth, multiply your desired drop length by two (as it will hang on both sides) and add this to the table's length. Do the same for the width: multiply the drop length by two and add it to the table's width.

Step 5: Consider Standard Sizes

Tablecloths usually come in standard sizes. If your measurements don't match exactly, opt for a slightly larger tablecloth, as a smaller one may not cover the table fully. A larger tablecloth will simply have a longer drop length.

Round Tables

If you're working with round tables, the process is slightly different. Measure the diameter (the distance from one edge to another, passing through the centre) and decide on your desired overhang or drop length. Multiply the drop length by two and add it to the diameter to get the ideal diameter for your tablecloth.

Final Thoughts

Now that you've measured your tables, you can move on to the next steps of choosing and cutting your fabric. Remember to add a little extra fabric to your calculations to allow for any uneven cutting or shrinkage during washing.

Cutting the fabric

Now that you've chosen your fabric, it's time to cut it to size. Before you make any cuts, it's important to measure your tables and decide on the desired drop length for your tablecloth. Typically, allowing for 8 inches of fabric to hang over the edge of the table is standard. Count how many tables you'll need coverings for so you can determine the total amount of fabric required.

If you're creating round tablecloths, mark the shape on your fabric with a pencil before cutting. It's normal to redraw and adjust your markings several times to ensure accuracy. Giving yourself an extra few inches will allow for any mistakes and ensure the fabric drapes nicely.

For straight-edged tables, use a ruler or measuring tape to mark a straight line on your fabric before cutting. You can also use a rotary cutter and a cutting mat to ensure straight cuts. If you're making multiple tablecloths, layer your fabric and cut through several layers at once to save time.

If you don't want to sew a hem, you can use pinking shears to cut the fabric, creating a fun, decorative edge. Alternatively, you can use iron-on fabric tape to create a hem without any stitching.

Hemming the tablecloth

Hemming your tablecloth is an important step in the process of making your own wedding linens. It will give your tablecloths a neat and polished finish, hiding any rough edges. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfect hems:

Prepare the Fabric:

Mark your fabric with a pencil, sewing pin, or tailor's chalk about 1/2 inch from the edges. This is the amount of fabric you will be folding and hemming. You can also mark the same width on the other side of the fabric for a consistent finish.

Fold and Secure:

Fold the edges of the fabric along the marked lines and secure them in place. You can use sewing pins or wonder clips to hold the folds in place. Alternatively, you may use an iron to press the folds and eliminate any creases. This will ensure that your hems are straight and crisp.

Baste the Edges (Optional):

Basting is a useful step if you want to ensure a neat finish. It involves making a temporary running stitch along the folded edges to hold them in place while you sew the final hem. This is especially helpful if you are working with slippery or lightweight fabrics.

Sew the Hem:

Using a sewing machine or sewing by hand, stitch along the folded edges of the fabric. You can choose to sew a single line of stitches just inside the cut edge of the fabric, or you may prefer to sew two lines of stitches for added strength. A double line of stitching will also give a neater appearance.

Press the Hem:

Once you have finished sewing, use an iron to press the hem again. This will give your tablecloth a crisp and polished look. If you plan to wash your tablecloths before the wedding, consider using a washable polyester/cotton blend fabric, and avoid fabrics that are likely to shrink.

Hemming your own tablecloths may take some time, but it will save you money and allow you to personalize your wedding decor. You can choose any colour or pattern of fabric to match your wedding theme, and add unique details such as ribbons or stamps.

Sewing the hem

Step 1: Prepare the Fabric

Firstly, you will need to prepare the fabric by folding and pressing the raw edges. Use an iron to create a neat, straight fold. For a square or rectangular tablecloth, fold and press one raw fabric edge by 1/2 inch. Then, fold and press again, this time by 1 inch, ensuring the raw edge is hidden within the fold. Repeat this process for all four edges of the tablecloth.

For a circular tablecloth, a narrower hem is best as it will result in less puckering. Fold and press the raw edge by 1/4 inch, then fold and press again by the same amount, encasing the raw edge within the fold.

Step 2: Sew the Hem

Now it's time to sew! You can do this by hand, but using a sewing machine will result in a stronger finish. Sew close to the inside of the tablecloth with a straight stitch, pivoting at the corners. For extra durability, consider sewing two lines of stitches: one just off the edge of the fold and another just off the cut edge into the linen.

Step 3: Alternative Methods

If you would prefer not to sew your fabric, there are a couple of alternative methods you can use to create a hem. One option is to use iron-on fabric tape, which will create a hem without the need for a needle and thread. Another no-sew option is to use pinking shears to cut the fabric, creating a fun, decorative edge that doesn't require hemming.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Once you've sewn your hem, it's a good idea to give your tablecloth a final press with an iron to ensure the hems sit nice and flat. If you want to add a pop of colour to your tablecloth, you can also sew on strips of felt along the edges.

Frequently asked questions