Custom table covers come in five main styles — throw, fitted, stretch, convertible, and runners/skirting — and the right choice depends on your table, your storage needs, and how staff work behind it.
The five styles, quickly
- Throw: classic draped look, loose fit, most forgiving. Available 3-sided (open back — staff can sit and store boxes) or 4-sided (closed back — full branding wrap). All sizes.
- Fitted: tailored box shape with sewn corners for a crisp professional look; open and closed back options.
- Stretch: tension fabric with foot pockets; the sleek modern look for cocktail and high-boy tables and display setups. Not fire rated — check venue rules.
- Convertible 6/8ft: one cover, sized to fit both table lengths — the safe pick when you don't know what the venue provides. Full all-over dye sub.
- Runners & skirting: a printed runner brands any plain cloth economically; skirting and wraps deliver the formal banquet look.
Options that actually change the experience
- Open vs closed back: open = seated staff and hidden storage; closed = branding on all four sides for island tables.
- Print coverage: all-over dye sublimation vs full-color front panel vs one-color imprint — see printing techniques compared.
- Liquid repellent: treated poplin that sheds spills — the practical pick for food, healthcare, and outdoor events.
- Wrinkle-free heavyweight: 12.5oz fabric that comes out of the bag ready to display.
The 30-second chooser
Know your table size and pick: standard rectangular table → throw or fitted; unknown 6ft-or-8ft → convertible; cocktail/high-boy → stretch; branding a venue's linen → runner; formal banquet → skirting. Not sure about size? Sizing guides here.
