Choosing the Right Table Skirts for Professional Events
Table skirting is a simple way to give buffet tables, registration desks, head tables and displays a cleaner, more professional finish. It hides table legs, equipment and storage while helping to create a polished event setup.
When choosing table skirts for a rental company, venue or catering operation, there are a few practical things to consider: size, drop, fabric, pleat style and attachment method.
Start With Your Table Size
First, determine how many sides of the table that needs to be covered.
A standard 6' banquet table requires approximately 14' of skirting for three sides or 20' for all four sides. An 8' banquet table requires approximately 16' for three sides or 24' for full coverage.
Full coverage isn't always necessary. Buffet and catering tables often leave the back open so staff can easily access supplies.
Choose the Right Drop
Most standard banquet tables are approximately 29"-30" high, so your table skirt should have a similar drop to reach the floor.
A skirt that's too short exposes the table legs, while one that's too long can collect dirt or become a tripping hazard. For the best fit, measure from the attachment point to the floor.
Fabric & Pleat Style
For commercial use, polyester is a practical choice. It's durable, relatively wrinkle resistant and designed to handle repeated washing and event use.
Your pleat style changes the overall appearance:
- Box pleats create a clean, tailored look for corporate events, conferences and buffets.
- Accordion or knife pleats provide a classic, versatile finish.
- Gathered skirting creates a softer look that's especially popular for weddings and head tables.
Make Sure Your Clips Fit
Table skirt clips aren't necessarily one- size-fits-all. The correct clip depends on the thickness and style of your tabletop, so a clip is used on a plywood banquet table may not fit a thicker resin table.
Before ordering in bulk, test your table, skirt and clips together to make sure everything fits securely and hangs properly.
Care & Storage
Treat stains as soon as possible and follow the recommended washing instructions for your fabric. Always make sure table skirts are completely dry before storing them to help prevent mildew, odours and staining.
It's also worth checking the stitching, pleats and attachment edge between events so small repairs can be handled before the next rental.
Need Help Choosing Table Skirting?
At Special Event Sales, we work with rental companies, venues of all sizes, catering companies and all event professionals across Canada and the United States. Whether you're replacing a few table skirts or building your rental inventory, our team can help you choose the right size and colour for your needs.