What Size Tablecloth for a 36-Inch Square Table

A 52-inch square tablecloth fits a 36 in square table: it hangs 8 in on every side (Sur La Table lists 52 inches for square tables 28 to 40 inches, seats 4).

52-inch square tablecloth on a 36 in square table, to scaleTop view: 8 in drop on every side.table8 in
Drawn to scale. Each grid square is one foot.
Square tablecloth for a 36 in table by drop
DropStandard sizeActual drop
Casual (6 to 8 in)52 × 52 (Sur La Table)8 in each side
Formal (10 to 15 in)60 × 60 (Premier Table Linens)12 in each side
Floor length (29 to 30 in)no standard size: buy custom—

The rule

  • A 6 to 8 inch drop for casual or everyday dining (Sur La Table).
  • A 10 to 15 inch drop for more formal occasions (Sur La Table).
  • A 29 to 30 inch drop for banquets, with the cloth nearly grazing the floor (Sur La Table).
  • Tablecloth size = table size + 2 × the drop (Sur La Table).

Sources

  1. Sur La Table: Tablecloth Buying Guide, checked
  2. Premier Table Linens: Table Linen Sizing Guide, checked

Rules checked