Step-by-Step Guide to Table Measuring & Pattern-Making
Illustration on how to measure your leafs 
To avoid measuring and patterning errors, be sure to keep the following points in mind as you move forward:
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Use a metal tape measure for the best results
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Avoid using the table manufacturer’s measurements
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Remove extension leaves before measuring (they should be measured separately).
Measuring your table only takes a few minutes. It’s important to avoid measuring slopes or molding. Instead, focus on the flat surface of the table.
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From the center split, measure the table’s width to the nearest 1/16”
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Down the center, measure your table’s end-to-end length

Unless your table is perfectly round, square, or rectangular, creating a pattern is an essential part of the process. As with measuring, be sure not to include extensions, slopes, or molding.
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Align the pattern paper with the table’s center split
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Smooth out any wrinkles
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Weigh the paper down with a heavy object to keep it in place
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Use the side of a pencil or crayon’s tip to trace the table’s edge
