Table Skirting
Table Skirting
Table Skirting
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The Basics
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Table skirts come in many sizes to fit rectangular, square or round tables. Some table skirts are intended
to cover only three sides of a square or rectangular table, while others are made to cover all four sides.
The standard length is 29 inches.
You'll find table skirts made of paper, plastic, polyester or linen in a wide variety of colors. Party-rental
companies rent the skirts, or you can buy them from retailers such as those who supply vendors at trade
shows or who sell table linens exclusively.
You can buy clips to attach the skirts to the tables. Some are plain plastic and have hooks that are
slipped into grommets on the table skirt, while others have hook-and-loop strips to grip the cloth. The
clips are sold in standard or variable sizes. Another attachment method is to use sticky-back hook-and-
loop fastener along the entire edge of the skirt and the table.
If you have a square or rectangular table and your skirt covers only three sides, begin attaching the skirt
at the end of one short side.
Work around the side, across the long front edge and finish at the back of the second short side.
If your skirt covers all four sides, begin at the center of the back long edge, work around a short side,
across the front long edge,
the second short edge, and finish at the center back. If there is any overlap, fasten it on top of the
beginning edge of the skirt.
Cover a round table by beginning at the point that will face away from the main part of the room. Work
around the table and end at the beginning point. Fasten any overlap on top of the beginning edge of the
skirt.
Different Kinds of Table Skirting
Table skirting is just as the name implies—a skirt for a table. Table skirts consist of two
components: the cloth table topper and a skirt that fastens to the table edge with clips, Velcro or
snaps. Standard tablecloths are not sufficient for over-sized banquet tables—they shift, wrinkle
and are rarely a proper fit. There is a table skirting solution for any table and occasion. Various
table skirting designs are suitable for wedding receptions, business conferences or holiday
celebrations. Learn about the different kinds of table skirting and make your upcoming event a
stylish affair.
Gathered or Shirred
Gathered or shirred table skirts are a popular choice due to the simplicity and reasonable cost. A
gathered or shirred table skirt is a fabric drape drawn together by threads along the top hem
providing extra body to the skirt. A tighter gather gives a table skirt a full, ruffled appearance.
Knife Pleat
Knife pleats are one of the most common kinds of pleating for table skirts. A knife pleat is a
series of narrow, sharp creases folded in the same direction. Unlike gathered table skirts, knife
pleats create smooth, precise lines down the length of the skirt. The knife pleated table skirt is a
classic choice that is the least expensive of the pleated variety.
Box Pleat
A box pleat table skirt is made from a sequence of back-to-back knife pleats. Box pleated table
skirting is a good choice for a professional conference or business meeting. The box pleats give
the table a neat, tailored appearance. Box pleats have a more pronounced projection than a
simple knife pleat, adding dimension and interest to business or formal tables.
French Box Pleat
Table skirting with French box pleats provide even more volume than standard box pleats.
French pleats are narrower than regular box pleats, giving the bottom of the table skirting a fuller
appearance. French box pleats work equally well in casual or elegant settings.
Plastic
When budget and easy cleanup are a priority, consider plastic table skirting. Vinyl fabric can be
fashioned into simple gathers or knife pleats. Vinyl table skirting is a cost-effective way to dress
tables for any occasion.
Fringe
Fringe table skirting is a playful addition to party tables. Metallic, tissue and raffia fringe skirts
have a number of imaginative uses. This kind of decorative fringe is a charming substitute for
table skirting and serves as a festive wall border for special celebrations. Natural raffia table
skirting is perfect for a tropical or luau-themed event. Raffia fringe works as hula table skirting,
tiki bar draping and funky wall decor.
Swag
Banquet, business or party tables can be fitted with detachable swags that are placed over any
kind of cloth table skirting. Swags are commonly attached with overlap clips that will not flatten
or damage the table skirt pleating. Swags are an easy way to dress up an otherwise plain table
skirt.