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Short answer
For everyday tablecloths, choose polyester or a polyester-cotton blend, which washes easily and creases little. Cotton and linen feel natural and absorb well, so they suit napkins, but they crease and can shrink. Jacquards and damasks make formal tablecloths and runners, and coated or wipe-clean fabrics suit tables used by young children.
Which fabric suits each piece?
| Piece | Good fabrics | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday tablecloth | Polyester, polyester-cotton | Washes easily, creases little |
| Formal tablecloth | Jacquard, damask | Pattern woven in, classic look |
| Table runner | Jacquard, texture, velvet | Decorative; washed less often |
| Napkins | Cotton, linen, cotton blends | Absorbent and soft |
| Children's or outdoor table | Wipe-clean coated fabric, outdoor fabric | Spills wipe off; handles sun |
See Floral and Damask Curtain Fabric and Cotton vs Linen vs Polyester.
How big should a tablecloth be?
- Overhang (drop): about 15 to 30 cm on each side for everyday use; longer for formal dining; to the floor for events.
- Size: table length plus twice the drop, by table width plus twice the drop, plus hems.
- Wide fabric: a fabric wider than the finished cloth avoids a seam. For a large table, centre a full width and join narrower strips at each side.
For banquet and event cloths, see Event and Wedding Drapery Fabric.
Which JOTEX fabrics suit table linen?
Multipurpose fabrics work well: FAY is a 50% polyester, 50% cotton flat weave; ORGANIC is 100% cotton; and RIGA is 100% polyester. All three are about 140 cm wide. Check each collection's care instructions before washing. See Multipurpose Fabric.
How do you care for table linen?
- Treat food and wine stains quickly: blot, then rinse from the back with cold water.
- Wash according to the care label; cotton and linen may shrink, so wash them before cutting to size, or allow for it.
- Iron or steam while slightly damp for a crisp finish.
- Store flat or rolled, rather than tightly folded, to avoid permanent fold lines.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best fabric for a tablecloth?
Polyester or a polyester-cotton blend for everyday use: easy to wash and slow to crease. Jacquard or damask for formal dining.
What is the best fabric for napkins?
Cotton or linen, or a cotton blend, because they absorb well and feel soft.
How much should a tablecloth hang over?
About 15 to 30 cm on each side for everyday use, longer for formal dining, and to the floor for events.
Can curtain fabric be used for a tablecloth?
Some can, especially multipurpose fabrics. Avoid coated blackouts and loose sheers, and check the care label.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
Specifications are public on every collection page. JOTEX dealers can log in for live stock and pricing, and our team can send samples or open a dealer account.