What Size Tablecloth Do I Need? Linen Tablecloth & Table Runner Size Guide

October 06, 2026

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The right tablecloth size makes the difference between a table that looks effortlessly styled and one that looks slightly off. Too small and it floats awkwardly on top; too big and it pools on guests' laps. The good news: getting it right takes one tape measure and about two minutes.

Step 1: Measure Your Table

Measure the length and width of your tabletop (or the diameter if it's round). Measure the table itself, not the space around it, and include any extension leaves you'll use when entertaining.

Step 2: Decide on Your Drop

The "drop" is how far the cloth hangs over each edge.

20–30 cm drop: the sweet spot for everyday and casual dining. It looks generous but stays clear of laps.
30–40 cm drop: a more formal, relaxed-drape look, lovely for Christmas and special occasions.

The formula: table length + (drop × 2) = tablecloth length. Do the same for the width.

Example: a 180 × 90 cm table with a 30 cm drop needs a 240 × 150 cm tablecloth.

Linen Tablecloth Size Chart

Tablecloth size	Best for tables around	Typically seats
Small: 150 × 240 cm	90 × 180 cm	4–6
Medium: 180 × 300 cm	100–120 × 220–240 cm	6–8
Large: 180 × 400 cm	100–120 × 320–340 cm	10–12
Round: 200 cm diameter	120–140 cm round	4–6

All of our rectangular tablecloths have a tailored 3 cm folded edge, and the round tablecloth has a soft 1 cm hem so it drapes fluidly.

Choosing a Round Tablecloth

For round tables, add double your drop to the diameter. Our 200 cm round cloth gives a 30 cm drop on a 140 cm table, or a longer 40 cm drop on a 120 cm table. Shop the round size in Driftwood, Olive or Nature Gingham.

What Size Table Runner Do I Need?

A runner should hang 15–30 cm over each end of the table, or sit about 15 cm short of each end for a neater, modern look. Width-wise, aim for roughly a third of your table's width. Our 50 cm wide runners suit most dining tables.

Runner size	Best for tables around
50 × 200 cm	140–170 cm long
50 × 300 cm	240–270 cm long
50 × 400 cm (extra long)	340–370 cm long

Hosting a big group or joining two tables together for Christmas? Our extra long 400 cm runner covers long banquet-style tables in one piece.

Layering a Tablecloth and Runner

Layering adds depth and texture. Try tone-on-tone, like the Driftwood Tablecloth with the Driftwood Runner, or mix a pattern with a plain colour, such as the Olive Stripe Tablecloth with the Olive Runner. Choose a runner the same length as your tablecloth or slightly shorter.

Does Linen Shrink?

All our tablecloths and runners are vintage washed before they reach you, so they're already pre-softened and shrinkage is minimal. Wash in cool water and line dry to keep the size true. See our guide on how to care for and wash a linen tablecloth.