How Do You Measure a Table for a Table Cover?

Choosing the right table cover size is crucial for creating a polished and professional look, whether you're setting up for a trade show, corporate event, or formal gathering. To ensure a perfect fit, it’s important to take accurate measurements of your table. Whether you're looking to enhance your branding with custom table covers or simply need the right size for a formal event, measuring your table correctly will help you avoid issues such as overhang or an ill-fitting cover. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to measure a table for a table cover.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

Before diving into the steps, it's important to understand why measuring your table properly is essential. A table cover that fits correctly can:

• Enhance your presentation: A perfectly sized table cover creates a neat and professional appearance, especially for trade shows and corporate events.
• Ensure full coverage: Proper measurements ensure that your table cover fully drapes over the table, providing full coverage and hiding any unsightly legs or storage beneath.
• Avoid wastage: Custom table covers are often printed with your logo or branding, so ordering the right size means your design is perfectly placed and no fabric goes to waste.

Now that we’ve covered the importance of accurate measurements, let's get into how to measure different table types and sizes.

Steps for Measuring a Table for a Table Cover

1. Determine the Shape of Your Table

The first step in measuring your table is determining its shape. Table covers are available for a variety of table shapes, including rectangular, round, and square tables. Each table shape requires specific measurements for a tailored fit.

• Rectangular Tables: Most commonly used at trade shows and events.
• Round Tables: Typically seen at banquets, weddings, or formal gatherings.
• Square Tables: Often used for smaller events or intimate gatherings.

2. Measure the Length, Width, and Height of a Rectangular Table

If you’re using a rectangular table, you will need three key measurements: the length, width, and height.

Measure the Length

• Length: Using a tape measure, measure the longest side of your table from one end to the other. This is your table’s length.
• Common rectangular table lengths include 4 feet (48 inches), 6 feet (72 inches), and 8 feet (96 inches).

Measure the Width

• Width: Next, measure the shorter side of your table, or the width. This measurement is typically around 24 or 30 inches, depending on the table type.

Measure the Height

• Height: Finally, measure from the top of the table to the floor. This is important if you want a table cover that reaches the ground. Standard table heights range between 29 and 30 inches.

3. Measure the Diameter and Height of a Round Table

For round tables, you’ll need to measure the diameter and height.

Measure the Diameter

• Diameter: The diameter is the distance across the center of the table, from one edge to the other. Use a tape measure to measure directly across the top of the table.
• Common round table diameters are 48 inches, 60 inches, and 72 inches.

Measure the Height

• Height: Measure from the tabletop to the floor to get the height. As with rectangular tables, round tables typically have a height between 29 and 30 inches.

4. Measure a Square Table

If you have a square table, the measurements are simple. You’ll need to measure the length of one side and the height.

Measure the Side Length

• Side Length: Measure one side of the table from edge to edge. Since the table is square, all four sides will have the same length.

Measure the Height

• Height: Measure from the top of the table to the floor. Standard table heights apply here as well, generally around 29 to 30 inches.

5. Decide on the Desired Overhang

Now that you have your table measurements, the next step is to determine how much overhang or “drop” you want from your table cover. The overhang is the amount of fabric that hangs down from the sides of the table. Here are the most common options:

• Floor-Length Overhang: For formal events, trade shows, or professional settings, a floor-length table cover that drapes to the ground is often preferred. This offers a clean, polished look and can hide table legs or any storage items placed underneath. For a floor-length table cover, the drop should equal the height of your table (usually 29-30 inches).
• Mid-Length Overhang: If you’re looking for a more casual or cost-effective option, a mid-length overhang typically hangs about 15 to 20 inches from the table edge. This allows for some coverage without the full drape.
• Short Overhang: In more casual settings or when you need to conserve fabric, a short overhang of 6 to 10 inches can work. However, keep in mind that this style may expose table legs or items stored underneath.

6. Choose the Right Table Cover Size Based on Your Measurements

Once you’ve measured your table and determined the desired overhang, you can now select the correct table cover size. Here’s a quick reference for standard table cover sizes:

For Rectangular Tables:

• 4-Foot Table: If you have a 4-foot (48-inch) table, a table cover measuring approximately 60 inches wide by 108 inches long should give you floor-length coverage.
• 6-Foot Table: For a 6-foot (72-inch) table, opt for a table cover around 72 inches wide by 128 inches long.
• 8-Foot Table: If you’re covering an 8-foot (96-inch) table, a 90-inch wide by 156-inch long cover will provide the best fit.

For Round Tables:

• 48-Inch Round Table: For a table with a 48-inch diameter, a 90-inch diameter table cover will provide full drape.
• 60-Inch Round Table: For a 60-inch diameter table, use a cover with a 108-inch diameter for floor-length coverage.
• 72-Inch Round Table: For larger, 72-inch round tables, you’ll need a cover that measures 120 inches in diameter.

Special Considerations for Custom Table Covers

If you're investing in custom table covers with your logo or branding, getting the right size is even more important. An ill-fitting table cover can cause your design to appear off-center, wrinkled, or poorly presented. When ordering custom covers, keep the following in mind:

• Logo Placement: Ensure that the placement of your logo or design is proportional to the size of the table cover. For example, logos on the front panel of the table cover should be centered and appropriately sized for maximum visibility.
• Material Selection: Custom table covers come in a variety of materials, including polyester, spandex, and vinyl. Choose a material that complements your event and branding goals. Polyester is durable and works well for printing, while spandex offers a sleek, modern look for fitted covers.
• Professional Advice: If you're unsure about sizing or material choices for custom table covers, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional printing service. They can help you ensure that your table cover fits perfectly and that your logo is positioned correctly for the best impact.

Conclusion: Measure Twice, Order Once

Measuring your table accurately is the first and most important step in choosing the right table cover. Whether you're preparing for a trade show, formal event, or corporate gathering, taking the time to measure ensures your table cover fits perfectly, provides the desired level of coverage, and enhances the overall presentation.

For businesses looking to showcase their brand at events, investing in custom table covers is an excellent way to create a professional and polished look. Accurate measurements will ensure that your logo and branding are displayed effectively, helping your company stand out from the competition.

Need help choosing or designing the perfect table cover? Our team is here to assist you with any questions or concerns.

Need help? Talk to an expert now at 1-888-377-9339 or Email us at care@qualityimprint.com.