Things You'll Need
Fabric (yardage will be figured in Steps 1 and 2)
Tape measure
Marking pencil or chalk
Scissors
Thread
Sewing machine
Needle (optional)
A round tablecloth is simple to make from any fabric. Depending on the size of the table and the desired drop length of the tablecloth, the tablecloth may be may from one piece of fabric or two or three pieces sewn together. Follow these instructions to make a round tablecloth with any necessary seams camouflaged.
Making a Round Tablecloth
Step 1
Measure the diameter of the table. Then measure from the top of the table to the floor or desired drop length of the tablecloth, and double this figure. Add the table diameter to the doubled figure and then add one inch for hems.
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Step 2
Fabric usually comes in 45-, 54- or 60-inch widths. If your measurement from Step 1 is less than the width of your selected fabric, you can purchase just that length of fabric. If your measurement from Step 1 is greater than the width of your fabric, then you will need two times that width or enough to create that measurement horizontally when the fabric is sewn together vertically. (This will be clearer in Steps 3 and 4.)
Step 3
If you are using one length of fabric (your measurement was less than the fabric width), skip to Step 4. If you are using lengths of fabric, separate them into lengths with the measurement from Step 1. To hide the seams, or at least not have them on the top of the table where they would be obvious, cut one length in half lengthwise. Then sew each resulting strip to the sides of the main piece (right sides together). This will put two narrower lengths on either side of the larger piece. (Think of a window with shutters on either side.)
Step 4
Now fold your fabric, whether it has seams or not, in half lengthwise and then in half widthwise. Figure half of the measurement you have been using and mark this on your tape measure. Hold the end of the tape measure at the double-folded corner (this will be the middle of the tablecloth), and using the tape measure as a compass, mark a quarter-circle as you move the tape measure from one folded edge to the other.
Step 5
Cut through all four layers on this marked line and you will have a perfect circle. Hem around the edge using a half-inch hem. Press flat.
Tip
Seams will be less noticeable with a patterned fabric, and more noticeable on solid, plaid, striped or geometric fabric. Consider using a large sheet for this project. Sheets are generally wider than fabric, and you may not have to have seams. You can make the tablecloth fancier by sewing fringe, lace or trim to the hem.
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