November 2, 2026 · 7 min read
Custom Linen Tablecloth Sizing Guide: Formulas, Drop Lengths & Shrinkage Allowance
Hotel linen tablecloth sizing made simple: size formulas for rectangular, round and square tables, drop lengths in cm and inches, shrinkage allowance, custom sizes from 1 piece.
Quick answer
Tablecloth size = table size + 2 × drop. Use a 15–25 cm drop for casual dining, 25–38 cm for formal dining, and the table height (about 74–76 cm) for floor length. Choose pre-washed linen (about 1–3% shrinkage) or add 3–7% to the cut size for untreated linen.
Key takeaways
- Rectangular: length = table length + 2 × drop; width = table width + 2 × drop.
- Round: diameter = table diameter + 2 × drop.
- Casual drop 15–25 cm, formal 25–38 cm, floor length = table height.
- Pre-washed linen shrinks about 1–3%; untreated linen about 3–7%.
- Custom-size linen tablecloths start from 1 piece.
Why tablecloth size goes wrong
This hotel linen tablecloth sizing guide is written for hotels, guesthouses and restaurants ordering custom linen. Most sizing mistakes come from two things: measuring only the table top and forgetting the drop, or ordering untreated linen that shrinks after the first hot wash. A tablecloth that looked right on arrival can end up a few centimetres short on every side.
Step 1: Measure the table
- Rectangular or square: measure length and width of the table top.
- Round: measure the diameter across the centre.
- Oval: measure the longest length and widest width, then order an oval cloth.
- For floor-length cloths, also measure the table height from top to floor.
Step 2: Choose the drop
| Setting | Drop (inches) | Drop (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Casual / café | 6–10 | 15–25 |
| Formal dining / restaurant | 10–15 | 25–38 |
| Floor length / events | 29–30 | 74–76 |
For everyday guest dining, keep the drop short enough not to rest on guests' laps. Floor-length cloths suit buffets, wedding and event tables.
Step 3: Apply the formula
- Rectangular: length = table length + 2 × drop; width = table width + 2 × drop.
Example: 180 × 90 cm table, 25 cm drop → 230 × 140 cm tablecloth. - Round: diameter = table diameter + 2 × drop.
Example: 120 cm table, 25 cm drop → 170 cm round tablecloth. - Square: side = table side + 2 × drop.
Example: 90 cm table, 20 cm drop → 130 × 130 cm tablecloth.
Step 4: Allow for linen shrinkage
Untreated woven linen typically shrinks about 3–7%; pre-washed linen typically about 1–3%. On a 230 cm cloth, 5% shrinkage is more than 11 cm, enough to change the look of the drop. Order pre-washed linen for hotel and restaurant use, or add the expected shrinkage to the cut size. Our linen shrinkage guide explains the wash test.
Step 5: Pick weight and finish
- Weight: about 180–240 GSM for tablecloths and napkins.
- Hems: double-folded hem or mitred corners for a clean, durable edge.
- Custom colour, embroidery or a small logo for restaurants and guesthouses.
Ready designs to start from: the Washed Pure Linen Tablecloth and the Yarn-Dyed Pure Linen Tablecloth, both available in custom sizes. Browse all linen home textiles.
Ordering for a hotel, guesthouse or restaurant
Our cut-and-sew workshop in Dongguan makes custom linen home textiles from 1 piece, using fabrics sourced from trusted linen mills, with worldwide express shipping. See linen for boutique hotels and guesthouses, or read our boutique hotel linen guide for bedding and curtain weights.
Next step
Send the table shape, dimensions and preferred drop via WhatsApp and we reply with a quote within 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate the size of a rectangular tablecloth?
Add the drop twice to both table dimensions: tablecloth length = table length + 2 × drop, and tablecloth width = table width + 2 × drop. For a 180 × 90 cm table with a 25 cm drop, order a 230 × 140 cm tablecloth.
How do I calculate the size of a round tablecloth?
Tablecloth diameter = table diameter + 2 × drop. A 120 cm round table with a 25 cm drop needs a 170 cm round tablecloth. For floor length, use the table height (usually about 74–76 cm) as the drop.
What is the standard drop for a tablecloth?
A casual drop is about 6–10 inches (15–25 cm), a formal dining drop about 10–15 inches (25–38 cm), and a floor-length drop equals the table height, usually 29–30 inches (74–76 cm). Keep the drop above seated guests' laps for everyday dining.
Will a linen tablecloth shrink after washing?
Untreated woven linen typically shrinks about 3–7%; pre-washed (pre-shrunk) linen typically shrinks about 1–3%. Order pre-washed linen, or add the expected shrinkage to the cut size, so the drop stays correct after laundering.
Can I order one custom-size linen tablecloth?
Yes. Custom linen home textiles, including tablecloths, start from 1 piece. Send the table shape, dimensions and preferred drop and we reply with a quote within 24 hours.
What fabric weight is best for a linen tablecloth?
Around 180–240 GSM is a practical range for tablecloths and napkins: heavy enough to drape and resist frequent washing, light enough to fold and press easily.