How much tulle should I plan for at my reception?

I would ask your Venue, they may already have measurements from hosting other event.

Don't use tulle. There are other prettier and lighter fabrics that drape better.

What fabric would you suggest Tammy?

Chiffon.

I like tulle because it is CHEAP! Do you homework and shop around online. If your going for the effect in the picture you will need 54 inch widths or higher. 18 inches would be great for a table. but not that.

Wow, Chiffon is SOOO expensive. Like $2.70/yard wholesale. I can get tulle for .13 - .25/yard. And I'm looking at 250 yards WITHOUT draping and wrapping. I'm just not sure how much more I should plan on with the draping and wrapping of the poles.

To be safe add 40-50% I would think. I would start watching local craigslist and check ebay and shop around. Depending on your decor you can get stuff dirt cheap on craigslist. If you need ribbon or lace, check ebay! I found mine for $1-3 for 10-25 yards of ribbon depending on width. Comes from China so it take a while to get here, average about 3 weeks.

I just went to a fabric store and they were charging $14/m (yay metric system!) too expensive gonna look elsewhere

Tulleshop.com is fabulously inexpensive. Tulle does not go as far as you expect when draping. Take the length of the ceiling and double it (20 ft high plus 40 ft across plus 20 ft high is 80 feet double to 160 feet then divide by 3 for yardage) then consider how wide to multiply how many yards you need for the top. Add the height of the room to each pole. I used 1000 yards for an outdoor reception for a friend and it gives a fantastic effect! I used Christmas twinkle lights under the tulle to add to the colorized look! Good Luck!! Chiffon is thicker and heavier than tulle and while I have draped poles with chiffon for the flowing effect that shows more light and colorizes, tulle is a better option. 18 inches is good for poles but you will want the widest rolls available for draping across and from the ceiling.

I would measure the space again and at least double what you think you need. It takes a ton of tulle to make it really look like something. The chiffon or another fabric might be more expensive, but you might need much less of it to create the look you want.

I've actually found REALLY cheap tulle at http://www.yourorganzabag.com/tullefabric.htm

I just wasn't sure how much to buy. Or what width. I was hoping I could do 18", but sounds like people are thinking I should do the 54". But it's the cheapest by far!

Michele, I don't suppose you still have the 1,000 yards left in good condition you'd be willing to sell? lol.

Thanks for the advice.

Take tulle. You consult with decorator. They will assist you or better contact tulle supplier like Tulle Shop, CA Wraps, Gift International & etc.,