Celebrating at home often means gathering friends and family around your table, with candles lit, and platters to share around. For casual catch-ups, or special occasions, a tablecloth is the perfect starting point to set the scene. Choose the right one for your table with our tablecloth size and styling guide.

When buying a tablecloth, there are a few key points to take into account. The first is the length and width of your table, which you can measure in centimetres - or judge the size more generally on how many people your table can seat. The second is how you want your table to look when it's set. Let's start with the size....

Ideally, your tablecloth should be large enough to cover the width and length of your table, with a little extra length to drape over the sides. A 15-30cm drape over each edge is ideal, but you can do a little more or a little less depending on your own personal style. For longer drapes, keep in mind the comfort of your guests, who may not want a lot of fabric puddling in their laps. Your tablecloth should sit comfortably above your guest's knees when seated, or extend further down past them for comfort. 

There are always exceptions to the rule. If you have a beautiful tabletop, you may not want to cover it entirely. In this case, it's ok to have a cloth that is shorter or narrower than your tabletop, as this will allow you to show off the table underneath! 

Once you have chosen a cloth, you may want to add some additional layers before setting the table. 

Placemats can add colour, texture, or bring an extra dimension to your setting, as well as protecting your cloth from hot pots or plates. For a rectangular or oval table, there are no hard and fast rules about the size or shape of placemat to use. The key thing to remember is to make sure there is enough room between each place setting to allow seated guests to be comfortable. And remember that glasses don't necessarily have to sit on the placemat either, you may want to consider using coasters instead, or simply place the glass in front of the place setting. 

Table runners can be used as well as, or even instead of a tablecloth. For something a little different, consider placing table runners width-wise across your table, so that two place settings opposite each other share one runner. In this way, a table runner can be a replacement for placemats, as well as adding a band of colour or texture to your table. 

Placemats on a round table should ideally be round to reflect the shape of the table. If you choose to use rectangular placemats instead, remember to allow enough room between place settings for your guests to sit comfortably and prevent the placemats overlapping. Square tables can accomodate both round or rectangular placemats.

Table runners may be used across a square table to add a layer of colour and texture. Across a round table, however, they can be a little jarring. In our book, table runners are best avoided on round tables in favour of a cloth, or placemats instead. 

Now that you've measured up, your next choice is between a patterned or a plain tablecloth. Really, it comes down to personal preference, and the occasion that you're styling for.

For simple and elegant settings, you can't go past a classic plain linen. From crisp white, to striking pewter, choose a plain linen tablecloth from our range, and choose to mix or match with napkins from the same collection.

If your style is a little more eclectic, however; or if you would like a tablecloth to use everyday, consider something with a bit of pattern. Not only are these bright designs eye-catching and beautiful, but a patterned tablecloth can be more forgiving to hide any spills and stains that are a natural part of daily family life. Whatever you choose, a tablecloth will always elevate your table setting, all that's left to do is add your accessories, plus great food and company. Enjoy!