Do you wanna know the best way to fold a rectangular tablecloth?
A way that’ll fold it into a perfect rectangle for storage in a drawer, or on a shelf.
Or maybe you wanna know how to fold a rectangular tablecloth to hang. On a hanger.
And with the least amount of creases possible.
I’m gonna show you how to do both, using step-by-step instructions.
How to Fold a Rectangular Tablecloth: Step-by-Step
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Step 1: Prepare your tablecloth
Before you begin folding, ensure your tablecloth is clean and free of wrinkles. Ironing the cloth beforehand will make the folding process much easier.
Step 2: Clear a surface for folding
Lay your tablecloth flat on a clean, spacious surface.
A dining table or a bed works well for this purpose. I used my floor because I was folding a very large tablecloth.
Make sure there are no creases or folds in the fabric.
*Note: Start with your tablecloth with the underside facing up. You can see the tag of my tablecloth on the bottom right.
Step 3: Fold your tablecloth in half
Fold the tablecloth in half lengthwise, aligning the edges precisely.
Smooth out any wrinkles as you go. But DON’T press down the fold. That will create a strong crease in the tablecloth.
This first fold sets the foundation for the rest of the process.
Step 4: Half-fold again
Take the top edges and bring them to the bottom edges, creating another fold.
You now have a tablecloth that’s one-quarter of its original size.
Step 5: Half-fold a third time
Again, take the top edges and bring them to the bottom edges, creating a rectangle.
Remember not to press down on the folds.
Step 6: Fold in thirds
(You’re almost done.)
Fold the tablecloth into thirds by starting on the right and pulling the edge a third of the way into the folded rectangle.
Step 7: Complete your folded rectangular tablecloth
To complete folding your rectangular tablecloth, take the left side and match it with the folded right edge of your tablecloth.
Voila! Your tablecloth is ready to put away.
How to Fold a Rectangular Tablecloth for Hanging
If you prefer to hang your tablecloth, here are the step-by-step instructions to ensure the least amount of fold…
Step 1: Clear a surface for folding
Lay your tablecloth flat on a clean, spacious surface. (Just like the above instructions for folding a rectangular tablecloth).
Step 2: Fold the tablecloth
Because you’ll be hanging your tablecloth, you want the least amount of folds as possible.
You want to start folding the narrowist direction of your tablecloth. Which is the length of the tablecloth.
Fold the tablecloth lengthwise, so you maintain the length of the fabric.
Be sure and match the corners so it’s perfectly in half.
Step 3: Fold again
Now fold the tablecloth lengthwise again.
Creating a long rectangle.
*As I mentioned above ~ don’t press the folds down. Let them lay softly. This will help prevent hard creases in your tablecloth.
Step 4: Fold in half one more time
Fold your tablecloth in half, widthwise, and slip your hanger up and under the portion the fold.
Step 5: Hang your rectangular tablecloth
Your rectangular tablecloth is ready to hang.
A few notes about the hanger you choose:
- Don’t use a metal hanger. It might bend under the weight of the fabric.
- Use a sturdy hanger.
- Use a hanger that has a thick rounded base for the tablecloth to lay over. This will help prevent hard creases.
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Thank you, this is good information
You’re welcome. Glad you found it helpful.