3 Hotel Table Settings Using Round Tablecloths

May 20, 2020

The luxurious look of the set round table

When was the last time someone recommended a hotel restaurant to you?

High chances are, they based their recommendation on:

Excellent food
Great service
Ambience

A well-set table reflects the standard of quality at a hotel. It sets the tone for a pleasant dining experience for your guests.

This is the reason details matter in the hotel industry. From the decor to the table setting, to the shape of your tablecloths, every detail is noticed.

Tablecloths are key even for the presentation of food. This can be the difference between your hotel and your competitors’.

Your table setting should leave an impression on your guests. Why not try these delightful, everyday table setting ideas?

It is a known fact that people eat with their eyes. So, your table setting must be appealing to the eyes of your guests.

Round tablecloths are the perfect table linen to bring a warm and intimate setting. You can use white or coloured tablecloths.

Why is colour important?

Studies have shown that colour affects the choice of food at a hotel. Colourful tablecloths can make your hotel look inviting. Appealing to guests.

Warm colours stimulate one’s appetite. Your guests are likely to eat more and spend more when your hotel is decorated in warm colours.

White brings an elegant look to your hotel.

Considering how much Aussies love to eat out, who wouldn’t want to dine in a warm or elegant hotel?

This can mean more business for you.

When Did Setting Tables With a Tablecloth Become the Norm?

Setting tables with tablecloths dates back to medieval times. A poet named Martial in 103 AD. mentioned tablecloths in his writings, proving their existence in the first century.

At the time tablecloths were very plain and for wiping spills on tables.

Later, ornately designed tablecloths replaced simple ones. Most of them were white. You would find them in the homes of the privileged ruling class and nobles. This begun in France before moving to Italy.

With time, tablecloths spread throughout Europe. The industrial revolution increased the production of the tablecloth and other table linen. So did the birth of synthetic dye, it brought about coloured tablecloths.

By 15th century tablecloths were in every household, except among the poor.

Tablecloths symbolised class and elegant dining. This trend continues today in fine dining hotels and themed settings.

Now we understand the history behind tablecloths. Let’s delve into unique ways of setting your tables using round tablecloths.

How To Set Tables Using Round Tablecloths

Round tablecloths are a versatile item of decor. You can use them for formal settings, wedding banquets and cocktail parties. Here are some ways to use them in your settings.

1. Round Tablecloths on Cocktail Tables

Image: courtesy
Cocktail table with a sash

There is no doubt, tablecloths can transform your hotel.

Many people use round tablecloths on tables with rounded edges. Round tables have no standard size, they come in different sizes.

When hosting a cocktail party, use cocktail tables. You can brighten the table using a coloured sash. It brings a chic look to your setting.

If you have an outdoor event, the wind can upset your setting. A sash comes in handy, helping you to hold the cloth together. You don’t need to worry about the wind blowing away the setting and ruining the party for your guests.

When using a sash, ensure your tablecloth is a size larger than what you need.

The sash lifts the cloth up, which leaves the legs of your tables exposed. Which is why your tablecloth should be a size longer.

Also, you need to consider the drop.

What is a drop? The drop is the diameter of the tablecloth that hangs below the surface of the table. It differentiates between casual, elegant and formal settings.

There are three kinds of drop:

Full drop. This is great for a formal look such as a wedding. The drop is usually between 20 to 30 centimetres.
Half drop. This is suitable for casual settings. The drop is usually 15 to 20 centimetres.
Puddle drop. If you are hosting an elegant occasion use a puddle drop.

Full drop

Half drop

Puddle drop

Wondering how to factor in your drop?

Use the formula Drop = (D-H) ÷ 2

Take the diameter of your tablecloth (D) and subtract the height of your table (H) then divide by 2.

For example, let’s say the diameter of your tablecloth (D) is 300cm and the height of your table 120cm. Your drop will be 90 centimetres. (300 - 120) ÷ 2 = 90

NB: A standard full drop is 75cm. If your drop is over 75 centimetres, it is a puddle drop.

2. Round Tablecloths of Different Colours and Fabrics

Black Round Tablecloth

When using tablecloths, consider different fabrics for a unique setting.

For example, cotton is a good fabric for an everyday look in your hotel. If you are setting a formal occasion, use polyester fabric. It is wrinkle-free and durable.

You need the right fabric to match an elegant occasion table setting.

Sik and satin tablecloths are your best bet. These fabrics are a bit pricey, consider renting them on a need basis.

Get your tablecloths in different fabrics from Australian Linen Supply. They sell commercial linen. Commercial linen is more long-lasting compared to tablecloths for home use.

What works best for your hotel: coloured or white tablecloths?

Coloured tablecloths grab your attention from a distance. When well-matched and balanced they can be a feast for the eyes of your guests.

You can also pick coloured tablecloths that represent your brand. This will create a signature look. That way, your guests can identify your brand with ease.

White tablecloths, on the other hand, give your hotel a simple and classy look. They never go out of style.

They are also versatile, especially when it comes to decorating.

The setting of the day at your hotel dictates your choice of the tablecloth: coloured or white. You can get these from ALS.

3. Placing Accessories on Round tablecloths

Gold Organza Square Tablecloth Overlay Image: courtesy

An overlay is an easy accessory you can use to bring some interest to your table. It can transform the look of your tables.

Make your table stand out by going for coloured overlays. Contrast the overlay with a black round tablecloth.

You can also add more contrast to the table using white and black bistro table napkins.

White with Black side stripes

Table runners are another accessory you can use on your round tablecloths.

Why table runners?

They are versatile. Table runners are available in a range of colours and patterns. You can attract the attention of your guests by placing a coloured runner on your round tablecloth. Consider adding texture to your tables by placing succulents on your runner. It will spur a conversation.
They are great for decor. Want to introduce themed settings to your tables? Why not use a table runner. It is ideal for themed settings like weddings. You can also use them for holidays such as Christmas or New year.
They offer protection. If you are looking to protect your tablecloths from spills, a table runner is perfect.
They are simple and affordable. Table runners are easy to find and a simple way to accessorise. Table runners require very little maintenance.

Bonus Tip: When using a lengthwise table runner, it should be one-third of the diameter of your table. As for short table runners, keep them one-fourth of the width of your table.

Find High-Quality Tablecloths For Your Restaurant

Australian Linen Supply has over 40 years of service in Australia. They are committed to ensuring the best results for your hotel.

Don’t take our word for it. These happy clients can attest to Australian Linen Supply’s excellent service.

"I am happy with the service provided by this company. Our order arrived within days of purchasing & the customer service was immaculate. Thank you for your help."
— Jess P.

"We received the items exactly as described and so far appear to be of great quality. The Service is friendly, superior and is second to none and the delivery was super fast. I look forward to my next order."
— David C.