Creations, Table Runner Tricks and Tips

This table runner was made with the same technique I used to make Pillowcase Curtains
I used a folded length of fabric and just cut a band of contrasting fabric for each end
Open the fabric up and stitch it on both ends
Then refold the fabric with right sides together and stitch across the chevron bottom and up the open polka dot side.
No seam is necessary on the other long side as it is folded. Leave the 4th side, the other chevron end, open. The runner now looks like a giant “pillowcase.
Next step is to turn it right side out and iron it
Turn the open chevron edges under about 3/4″ and press
Instead of stitching the open edge closed I used fabric glue
You can also use fusible tape. Easy, peasy, DONE!
Table runners are so versatile, you can use them in so many ways~
Layered
Triple layered
Mixing patterns, color
and textures as for this dramatic African Safari table
You can also use a tablecloth that is too small for your table as a table “runner”
This lace tablecloth is placed across the center of the table and topped with another wide piece of fabric in the center, forming a dramatic base for a buffet service
The two contrasting textures help marry the shiny silver pumpkins with the matte pewter pieces at this autumn Baby Shower table
Don’t forget the patio table
This table uses a runner to accent the table and then a third runner placed on top to match the runners on the kitchen table for an indoor/outdoor Summer Party
Use long runners along each side of table instead of place mats
It’s fun to have a decorative edge, and ruffles work well if the runner is long enough to overhang, like this Burlap Ruffle Runner
This Bunny Garden table uses narrow runners all around the edge of the table mimicking a fence
You can also decorate the ends of the runner by adding elements directly on the table such as these mounds of Easter grass on the island at the Cottontail Cake Buffet
You could use moss, river rocks, seashells, glass beads, buttons….
Even the smallest fabric remnants can be turned into table accents like this narrow black dotted runner across the white dotted cloth at this Bees in the Garden table for 2
A mini runner is used for the patio coffee table
I often fold a runner to set a table for 2
or to create a dramatic centerpiece
I bought this embroidered runner
But I like to make my own~
You just can’t have too many table runners!
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Hi Jenna, What a beautiful collecton of table runners. You certainly have beautiful tablescapes using them. I love the the latest one, the contrasting fabrics are so pretty.
Thank you Emily!
Love all these ideas! I have sewn a handful of table runners, but I like your idea of the “pillowcase” approach. And the diagonal fold for two placesettings is brilliant!
I love your confidence with color and fabrics and your creativity at the table never ceases to amaze me Jenna! I still think the folded runner for two is genius 🙂
I love all of these different, and The one you made is especially cute. Great ideas. We have a party and would love to have you share this post. It starts Tuesday nights and is up right now.
Debi @ Adorned From Above
thanks so much Debi!
Wonderful ideas…so creative. I love the way you mix and match.
I love how your table runner shows the two fabrics together- so pretty!! I need to make one like that… and so many beautiful tablescapes! Wow, you are talented Jenna!!
Oh, my goodness, Jenna! I love all your ideas for using runners – especially the “folded for two”. You are a genius! Layering the runners add so much to a table. Thanks for sharing your examples of different mixtures. Your runners with the contrast end strip and burlap ruffle look beautiful. Blessings! 🙂
You are so creative! Thanks for sharing this, I think I can pull this one off!
Thanks Sandra, you definitely can!
Wonderful ideas, just wonderful! Seeing these re-enforces my love for table runners!
Thank you Christine!
You have quite a way with runners! I love how you layer them and fold them in different ways to create just the right look! Thanks for linking up to my Creative Ways Link Party!
Blessings,
Nici
I just love all of your table runners. I want to try to make my own now! Thanks for the inspiration.
Sheila from My Kentucky Living