When choosing an acrylic-coated tablecloth, it’s important to consider how the edges are finished. The right finish not only affects how your tablecloth looks but also how it performs over time.
Acrylic-coated fabrics are naturally resistant to fraying — the coating seals the fabric weave, keeping edges tidy even with daily use. Only repeated machine washing may cause a little fraying at the edges, and if that happens, any stray strands can easily be trimmed away with scissors.
At Simply Tablecloths, we offer four edge finish options to suit different styles, uses, and budgets:
- No Finish
- Hem Finish
- Edge Binding (Bias Finish)
- Fitted Finish
Every tablecloth is hand-finished in the UK by our experienced team to ensure a clean, professional result.
Finish Comparison at a Glance
| Finish Type | Description | Suitable For | Appearance | Cost | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Finish | Straight-cut edge, no stitching | Rectangles & DIY projects | Clean, simple | £ (lowest) | May fray slightly if machine washed. |
| Hem Finish | Double-folded and stitched edge | Rectangles & squares | Discreet, classic | ££ | Reduces max width by ~2cm per side. |
| Edge Binding | 1cm bias tape sewn around edge | Circles, ovals, or optional for rectangles/squares | Decorative, polished | £££ | Best for curved edges. Keeps full fabric width. |
| Fitted | Tailored with side drops & seams | Rectangles, squares, circles | Sleek, tailored | ££££ | Reduces movement and provides a neat overhang. |
1. No Finish (Straight-Cut Edge)
A no-finish edge is a simple, clean-cut option. The acrylic coating seals the fabric, helping to prevent fraying under normal daily use.
This is meterage straight off the roll. This finish is ideal if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution or a casual table cover that still looks smart. It’s especially popular for fabric samples, craft projects, or temporary setups. It easily allows you to cut to size and shape yourself.
Tip: If you ever notice a loose strand after washing, simply trim it with scissors — it won’t continue to fray.
2. Hem Finish
A hem finish involves folding the fabric edge over twice and stitching it flat — much like the hem on a t-shirt. When possible, the stitching thread is colour-matched to the fabric for a seamless look.
This is the standard finish for rectangular and square tablecloths, offering a discreet, classic appearance that suits most settings.
Because the fabric is folded twice, a hem finish slightly reduces the final size by approximately 2cm on each side.
Note: Circular and oval tablecloths cannot be hemmed because the curved edge cannot be folded neatly. These shapes are instead finished with bias binding.
3. Edge Binding (Bias Finish)
A bias-bound edge adds a stylish and decorative border to your tablecloth. This involves sewing a 1cm wide bias tape around the fabric edge — the tape is cut diagonally across the fabric weave, allowing it to flex neatly around curves.
The colour of the binding is carefully chosen to complement the design of the fabric, resulting in a smooth, professional finish.
Bias binding is:
- Standard for circular and oval tablecloths (due to their continuous curved edges)
- Optional for rectangular and square tablecloths (with rounded corners added for a softer look)
This finish maintains the full fabric width (unlike hems) and creates a refined decorative edge — ideal for premium dining settings.
4. Fitted Finish
A fitted finish offers a snug, made-to-measure appearance with a fixed side drop. It’s the most premium and practical finish — perfect for tables where you want a neat look and minimal movement.
The fitted edge keeps your tablecloth securely in place, ideal for everyday dining, outdoor use, or commercial settings.
Available in several variants (plain designs only):
- Rectangular & Square (Boxed Corners)
- One-piece design with boxed seams at each corner
- 10cm side drop
- Hem-finished seams
- Rectangular & Square (Rounded Corners)
- Two-piece design: top panel + sidewall
- 15cm side drop
- 5cm corner radius
- Circular Tables
- Two-piece design: top panel + sidewall
- 15cm side drop
Note: This finish is not available for oval tables.
Size & Width Considerations
Different edge finishes slightly affect the overall size of your finished tablecloth:
- Hem finish: reduces width and length by ~2cm per side (due to fabric folding).
- Edge binding: keeps full width.
- Fitted finish: side drop (10–15cm) is added separately from the top measurement.
For example:
A 140cm-wide fabric becomes 136cm after hemming, but remains 140cm with edge binding.
Choosing the Right Finish
Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the perfect edge for your tablecloth:
| Finish | Best For | Look | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Finish | Everyday use on a budget | Clean & simple | Cost-saving, minimal upkeep |
| Hem Finish | Classic dining settings | Discreet & timeless | Simple, durable, and neat |
| Edge Binding | Decorative or curved tables | Polished & colourful | Stylish and premium edge |
| Fitted | Fixed tables, outdoor or dining use | Sleek & fitted | Minimal movement, elegant hang |
Made in the UK
Every tablecloth — regardless of shape or finish — is cut, sewn, and quality-checked by hand in our UK workshop.
We take pride in offering high-quality, made-to-measure tablecloths that are both practical and beautifully finished.
Whether you prefer a simple straight edge, a classic hem, a decorative binding, or a fitted design that stays perfectly in place — your tablecloth will be tailored with care to match your style and table.
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