Related Sponsors

Making a Table Runner

Home » Tables » Table Runners » Making a Table Runner

Making a table runner is easy, so don’t be dismayed if you can’t find the right table runner for your table in a store.

Step 1: Choose an easy care fabric in the color and design of your choice. You will need at least 2 yards for a 70” runner and 3 yards for a 90” runner. You will need the same amount of fabric for the reverse side of the runner since table runners are double sided as opposed to just hemmed. You will need this second length of fabric even if you plan to trim the table runner with lace, fringe, or other decorative element.

Step 2: Before cutting any of the fabric, prewash both lengths of fabric, dry and press them. If you cut fabric that is prewashed and dried, but not ironed, you may end up with wavy edges and uneven designs in the weave of the fabric.

Step 3: For a 70” table runner, cut both front and back fabrics in rectangles that are 71” X 29”.

Step 4: Working with one fabric at a time, fold the cut fabric in half, with the short ends touching. Make a small mark in the center of the short sides. From each corner, measure down 5” from the short side down the long side and make another small mark on each side. Use a straight edge to draw lines from the center mark to each of the four marks on the sides. Cutting along these lines will create the pointed end of the table runner. After cutting and creating the points on both fabrics, you will have two pieces of fabric that are pointed at both ends.

Step 5: Press ½” of each edge toward the wrong side of the fabric using the steam setting of your iron. Pin both pieces together paying particular attention to matching corners and points.

Step 6: Stitching the two pieces together, allow a 1/8” to 1/4” seam allowance. Finish by adding tassels to each end, if desired.

Note: Steps for making a 90” table runner are the same, except that a 90” table runner should be cut in fabric rectangles that are 91” X 28”.

Next Page: Choosing the Coffee Table That's Right for You

Related Table Runners Articles