Tablecloths and Table Covers Buying Guide | Customized Tents & Logo Tablecloths

Tablecloths & Table Covers Buying Guide

Making Shopping for Tablecloths Fun

Welcome to BuyShade.com, where we unite great products, outstanding service, and a pleasant shopping experience all on one convenient website. Online shopping is a great tool to find affordable prices and hundreds of options for anything under the sun. When you're shopping for something tactile like tablecloths and table covers, it can be difficult to get a real feel for the tablecloths from a few pictures and brief descriptions. Nobody wants the disappointment of ordering the wrong table covers, so we have compiled a buyer's guide for tablecloths. The information below will help you narrow down the thousands of tablecloth options, pick out the important information, and identify which tablecloth or table cover is best for your usage. With just a little know-how, you will be able to buy the perfect tablecloth the first time.

Choose a Style for your Tablecloths or Table Covers

The style you choose for your tablecloths or table covers is largely a matter of taste, but before try to keep in mind how and where you are using them. If your table is an unusual shape or size, choose a style that is flexible for different sizes of tables. If you anticipate using your table covers over several years and different kinds of events, you can maximize their practicality by selecting a neutral and functional style and color combination.

Throwstyle Tablecloths
Throwstyle tablecloths are the most common variety of tablecloths for everyday use at home. A large, seamless piece of fabric drapes over the table edges for an easy finish, and it adapts well to different table sizes and shapes. A table throw overhangs the table edge by 8"-15" inches on a dining table, but a floor-length drop is more customary for display and banquet tables. If you are traveling to tradeshows and fairs, unless you bring your own table you may be using tables of differing sizes, in which case a throwstyle tablecloth will be very useful. Because table throws are the most versatile table covers, you will find the greatest variety of fabrics, decorative trims, and sizes for throwstyle tablecloths.

Fitted Table Covers
Fitted table covers are like slipcovers for tables—several pieces of fabric are sewn together to create a table covers with a square box shape. Fitted tablecloths are very common for rectangular tables, especially in reception areas and for vendor tables. Because the fabric lies flat and tight to the table, fitted tablecloths are ideal for events with large crowds or outdoor venues. The reduced bulk will prevent your tablecloth from being accidentally trod upon, pulled out of place, or blown about by winds. For round tables, fitted “barrel” table covers have clean, straight silhouettes for sporty and modern appeal.

Pleated Table Covers
Like fitted tablecloths, pleated tablecloths are sized to fit your tabletop and are available in lengths for any table height. The inverted pleats at the table corners allow leg room for sitting at the table or access to under-table storage. We like pleated tablecloths because they blend the easy elegance and functionality of a table throw with the trim profile of a fitted tablecloth. Whether for home or business, pleated table covers are versatile for any event.

Table Runners
Table runners can run down the length of the table or drape across the width to add a punch of color and another layer of interest to your table. Changing the look of your dining table is as easy as changing the table runner to a different pattern or print, no need to buy a new tablecloth. For businesses and schools, table runners can be custom printed with your logos to increase visibility at a bake sale, registration table, or other community event. You can even use table runners without a tablecloth for casual place settings. Our suggestion, get a couple different runners and get creative!

Table Skirts
Table skirts wrap around four or three sides of a table, and attach to the table edge with clips or hook-and-loop fastener. The table top is left exposed, or you can add a table topper in a matching or contrasting color. Table skirting is available in different styles, including shirred or gathered pleats, box or accordion pleats, and flat. The style of skirting is entirely a matter of personal taste, but the neat and trim look of box pleats is best for very formal occasions. Table skirts are excellent for buffet tables, display tables, and any time where the key need is to disguise the area under the table. Table Skirting can be more expensive than a simple table throw, but the professional finish it gives your table can elevate your entire event.

What kind of fabric is best?

These days, you have as many fabric options for your tablecloths as you do for your clothing. The most common fabrics for table covers and linens are cotton, polyester, or a cotton-poly blend, and you won't go wrong using one of these fabrics. Whether made from natural or synthetic fibers, the majority of tablecloths are made with plain-weave fabric, a sturdy fabric that feels like everyday bed sheets. However, we recommend that you look for fabrics that are designated as “twill,” a different kind of weave which is softer and more fluid than plain-weave fabrics. The nature of twill weave provides several benefits when used as a tablecloth; twill helps hide wear and staining, resists wrinkling, and generally has a more attractive drape or fall. Also, most inferior and cheap fibers are not woven as twill, so a tablecloth labeled as twill will indicate a better quality fabric. Just remember, “You will look for twill, for 'twill be far better!”

Natural Fibers: Cotton, Wool, Silk, Linen
Cotton is a durable and multipurpose fabric, and makes a suitable tablecloth for home use. From high-end designer tablecloths to budget friendly ones, cotton table covers are very popular and you will find a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles to match any decor or theme. Cotton tablecloths are usually machine washable, but a “designer” tablecloth may require extra care like hand washing or dry cleaning. If you need to wash your tablecloth frequently (twice a month or more), consider a cotton-poly blend tablecloth which will be more durable and will last longer before showing signs of serious wear. Compared to cotton tablecloths, silk, linen, and wool tablecloths are more delicate and expensive and less suitable for everyday use. One spilled drink or stray splash of pesto sauce will have your tablecloth in the trash. However, table covers made from special fabrics like silk and linen can be very beautiful and are wonderful to have for parties and special occasions. If you want the luxury look without the high price and high maintenance, look for sateen and damask tablecloths made from cotton or polyester. Dressed up with pretty place settings and piled with good food, probably you will be the only one to know the difference!

Synthetic Fibers: Nylon, Polyester, Spandex
Polyester and other synthetic fibers are no longer the shiny, lurid, fake-looking fabrics they once were in the 70s and 80s. Polyester tablecloths are quickly becoming a household and business staple, as they resist wrinkling, are easy to clean, and can be made in any shape or color imaginable. Perhaps best of all, polyester tablecloths are very inexpensive and will look like new for years—easy on your wallet in the short run and long run! Nylon tablecloths are less common because thin nylon fabric is not as useful or attractive as table covers. For something new and different, look for table covers made from spandex stretch material. These tablecloths are custom made to fit your table and have a contoured shape that looks part architectural, part futuristic. Spandex tablecloths are notably pricier and are less diverse in their offerings, but the give a creative and interesting appeal to marketing and presentation tables where visual impact is worth the investment.

Specialty Fabrics: Water-Repellent, Recycled, Canvas
Duck and canvas materials are great for outdoor table covers because they are tough, thick, and often have a protective wax-like coating to repel water, stains, and dirt. More utilitarian than attractive, canvas table covers are difficult to find pre-made and are usually limited in color choices. If you really need outdoor utility, look for water-repellent tablecloths. For not much more than a standard polyester tablecloth, water-repellent table covers have a special treatment that doesn't let liquid soak into the fabric. Oops, did you spill? Just blot off the liquid, and your tablecloth is still dry. It's a great feature for vendor tables and anyone who is naturally clumsy. As the green trend continues to grow, you can now find polyester tablecloths made from 100% or partially recycled plastics. Because of the extra work involved in recycling, recycled fabric is more expensive than regular polyester, but it’s definitely worth your consideration.

Disposable Fabrics: Vinyl, Plastic, Paper
The cheapest tablecloths are made from vinyl, plastic, and paper, and are typically meant to be used once or twice and then thrown away. Because they are often used for birthday parties and other casual events, your local party supply store should have a good supply of disposable table covers in a variety of colors and patterns. If you need to cover a lot of tables, using disposable tablecloths is the good way to keep your prices low, with prices ranging from $5 to $20 each. But don’t count on being able to reuse paper or plastic table covers at a later event as they will probably have rips and stains. Vinyl table covers are a little thicker than plastic or paper ones and are very water-resistant, so vinyl tablecloths are ideal for kids' parties, crafts, or everyday meals because any spills are super easy to clean up.

What about logos?

For your business, school or organization, consider customizing your table covers with a printed logo or advertisement. At community events like farmers markets and charity fundraisers, a logo tablecloth can advertise for your business and draw interest to your table. Schools and colleges take custom tablecloths to job fairs, community service activities, and athletic events to show their school pride. (Hint: a custom tablecloth with your school's name and logo makes a great class gift or booster club donation.) Local sports clubs and neighborhood groups can have their emblem and team name on the front of a tablecloth and add sponsor logos around the sides.

From hair salons to organic produce, and from chili cook offs to home improvement shows, anyone can have a custom tablecloth to publicize at any event. Because a tablecloth is small and lightweight for travel, your tablecloth can go absolutely anywhere, which means there are endless promotional opportunities for you. Even an office or storefront is improved with a logo tablecloth simply by letting guests know they found the right place. Whether you want to grow your business, raise awareness, connect with fans, or just have fun, a customized tablecloth has limitless versatility and is a great choice for any organization.

Any size or style table cover can be printed in full color with icons, text, photos, and custom patterns. Customization needs to be done at time of purchase, so plan ahead and give yourself at least two weeks for getting quotes, designing, ordering, and delivery. The best quality printed tablecloths are produced either by silk screen (for single-color designs and large quantities) or by dye-sublimation digital printing (for full-color and small quantities). Dye-sublimation means the ink goes into the fabric, not just sitting on top where the ink can flake or scratch off. If you receive a quote for a digital print tablecloth, check with the company and make sure they use dye-sublimation printing so you can be confident that you’re getting a good product.

Care and Storage for Your Tablecloth

When you buy your new tablecloth, read the care instructions carefully and wash in once before using. It's a good idea to keep the original label or packaging--someplace handy, maybe the laundry room--so you always know the correct washing instructions. Polyester table covers won't need much ironing if you remove them promptly from the dryer. If you need to iron your tablecloth, start on a low heat setting with no steam. For extra caution, use a clean dish towel between the iron and the tablecloth. A little spray starch gives body to your table cover and reduces wrinkling so you can go longer between washes.

If you invested in a luxury tablecloth, chances are you would like to enjoy it as often as possible and for as long as possible. A clear vinyl table cover is invaluable for protecting delicate details like embroidery, beading, and lace when your tablecloth is in everyday use. Store folded tablecloths in a cool, dry closet with cedar planks or sachets to keep prevent damage from moths and other pests. With just a little extra care, your table covers will look their best even through several years of use.