A Tulip table is made to be looked at: the marble or laminate top and the goblet-shaped pedestal are the heart of its design. But it is also where you eat, work and entertain, so sooner or later the question comes up: tablecloth, runner or placemats? In this guide we look at when each option makes sense and, above all, how to work out the right size for a round or oval table.
Cover the top or leave it on show?
There is no single rule; it depends on how you use the table. A bare marble top has the strongest visual impact, but for everyday meals it is wise to protect at least the areas where glasses, hot dishes and bottles go. A laminate top is more forgiving and wipes clean, so you can cover it only when you want to set a mood.
- Full tablecloth: ideal for special meals and celebrations, or if you have young children.
- Runner: dresses the centre of the table and leaves most of the top visible.
- Placemats: the most practical everyday choice, because they protect exactly where people eat.
The pedestal advantage
The Tulip table stands on a single central pedestal with no legs at the corners. For table linen this is a real plus: the fabric falls evenly all the way round, without the folds and bumps you get where a traditional table has its legs. Even a long cloth stays neat and does not get in the way of your guests' knees.
How to work out the tablecloth size
The part of the fabric that hangs over the edge is called the drop. For everyday use a drop of 20–25 cm on each side is comfortable; for a formal occasion you can go to 30–40 cm. The sum is simple: add twice the drop to the size of the top.
Round Tulip table
Tablecloth diameter = table diameter + 2 × drop. For a 120 cm round table with a 25 cm drop you need about 170 cm; for a more elegant 30 cm drop, 180 cm. A 90 cm top needs 140–150 cm, while a 160 cm top needs 210–220 cm. Always choose a round cloth: a square one on a round table leaves corners hanging unevenly. If you are still deciding on the diameter, our guide to round Tulip table sizes and seating will help.
Oval Tulip table
For an oval table, work out length and width separately, adding twice the drop to each. On a 180 x 90 cm oval with a 25 cm drop you need roughly 230 x 140 cm; on a 160 x 85 cm oval, roughly 210 x 135 cm. An oval cloth is best: a rectangular one leaves the corners hanging much lower at the four ends. You will find every available size in our oval Tulip tables category.
Runners: sizes and proportions
A well-proportioned runner is about one third of the width of the top: on an oval 90 cm wide, a 30–35 cm runner works well. For length there are two styles: a runner that stays on the top, leaving 15–20 cm clear at each end, or a longer one that hangs 15–25 cm over the edges. On a round table a classic runner is less suitable; a round centrepiece mat or a short runner across the diameter looks better.
Placemats: practical and protective
Rectangular placemats usually measure 45 x 30 cm; round ones are 35–40 cm across and follow the curve of a round table more naturally. Before buying, check the space: each place setting takes about 60 cm of edge. A 120 cm round table, with a circumference of about 3.8 metres, easily takes six placemats.
On a marble top, choose placemats with a soft, dry back such as felt, cork or fabric, and avoid materials that might bleed colour when wet.
Protecting marble under fabric
A tablecloth does not make marble waterproof. Wine, lemon juice or vinegar spilled on the fabric can soak through to the stone, which is sensitive to acids. If something spills, lift the cloth straight away and dry the top with a soft cloth. Always use a trivet under pans and very hot dishes, even when the table is covered. For complete protection, read how to protect marble from stains and scratches.
Materials and colours
- Linen and cotton: natural, easy to wash, and they drape nicely over the rounded edge of the Tulip.
- Stain-resistant fabrics: handy for everyday family use.
- Colours: on a white top such as Carrara, neutral tones, sage and blue work well; with dark marbles such as Marquinia or Emperador Dark, try light fabrics for contrast.
In short
For a round Tulip table or an oval one, the rule is simple: size of the top plus twice the drop, and a cloth the same shape as the table. Placemats are the most practical everyday option, a runner adds a decorative touch, and a full tablecloth is perfect for special occasions. That way your Tulip stays protected without losing its character.