How to Make Your Own Tablecloth

A tablecloth on your kitchen or dining room table can add a bit of color to the room. It can also protect your table from scratches. If there are already some dings in the tabletop, a tablecloth will hid those, as well. Coordinating mismatched pieces of furniture is also possible with the right tablecloth. If you have made it yourself, it will give you a wonderful feeling of accomplishment. And, it is so very easy, even if you are a beginner at sewing. Here are some tips to get you started making some simple, but beautiful, tablecloths for you to use in your home, or possibly give as gifts.

To make a square or rectangular tablecloth, the measurements are quite simple. First, you need to decide how far you want the covering to hang down over the edges of your table. Then, measure the table, add twice the overhang to each measure meant (length and width), and then add two inches for the hems.

Measurements for a round or oval table are very similar. You will need to measure the diameter of your table, both length and width. Add the measurement for your overhang and then one inch for the hem. When you are purchasing your fabric, you will be treating these measurements as if your table were square or rectangular. You can make them circular by cutting the corners off later, when you are making your tablecloth at home.

Many fabrics come in widths from 42" to 45". If any measurement of your table is longer then this, you will need to piece the fabric together. You do not want the seam to be down the middle. This is much more noticeable than two seams an equal distance from the ends of the table. For each seam, you will need to add at least another inch to your fabric requirements.

When choosing fabric for round or oval tablecloths, it is recommended that you do not use bold stripes or plaids. If you make even a slight error in cutting or hemming, it will show up quite obviously against the straight lines. A small pattern on the fabric is much more desirable.

To figure out where to cut the corners off of a round or oval tablecloth, place the cloth wrong side up on your table and get it centered exactly. If you have to piece the cloth, this should be done prior to cutting the corners out. Once you have the cloth centered on your tablecloth, use weights to keep it from shifting. Make sure your seams are equally distant from the center, if you have had to piece the fabric. Using chalk or another marking tool that is not permanent, outline the edge of the table.

Remove the marked cloth from the table and fold it in half with the right sides together. Pin the folded cloth to make sure it will stay lined up. Make sure the seams are lined up and straight. Also, make sure the markings of the table diameter are lined up. Fold the cloth again, into quarters. This should give you four layers of fabric. Pin this together also, making sure everything lines up. Mark the distance from the table edge marking for the drop length. Now you can cut the shape of the tablecloth into a circle or oval.

Stitching the hems on your tablecloths should be done with a straight machine stitch. This is because they hems are so small that there is not room to use a hemstitch. On square or rectangular tablecloths, it is advisable to use a mitered corner for a more finished look. This is simply done by folding the corners in at the time of hemming. The tip of the corner should match the edges of the fabric turned in for hemming.

Curved hems are more of a challenge than straight hems. They will need to be eased into place as you go around the circular parts. For an oval tablecloth, this will be at the corners. For a circular tablecloth, this will be the entire hem. If you keep the hem allowance narrow, it will be easier to do this. Do a double fold of one quarter inch each and iron the fabric. Pin the fold to keep the fabric in place until you sew the hem. You may need to gather the fabric slightly to get the hem to work.

If the hems prove too much of a challenge for a beginner, it is possible to use bias tape to cover the raw edge of the fabric. You can use tape that matches the fabric of your tablecloth, or use something that is in a contrasting color to add some variety. All that is required is to sew the tape onto the edge of the cloth. It is pre-folded and very easy to use.

To give your tablecloth a more decorative look, add some trim. This can be found at your local fabric store. It can be as simple or as fancy as your tastes run. It can also be sewn onto the tablecloth to hide a hem that is not as perfect as you would like.

Making items for your home will give you a sense of accomplishment. It is possible to make items yourself that you cannot find in stores. Hopefully, these tips will get you started in a wonderful hobby and you will be able to makes items for you and your family to enjoy.