Making a table runner is a great way to add some color to a room and make your dining table pop. It can be a fun project for anyone to make. There are many unique patterns and techniques to choose from, depending on your preferences. There are also a variety of ways to make them, including sewing and crocheting.
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When you decide to decorate your home finally with gorgeous table runners, you will want to make a wonderful choice. You can choose a design from the runners or even internet platforms like Pinterest. Unfortunately, there are many table runners that you can find these days, and the choice is so wide that you may feel that it is a troublesome thing to do.
So, the question is, how to make a table runner? The first thing that you should do is to decide the purpose of using it. If it is for a decorative purpose, then opt for one that comes with a classy design and vibrant colors. But if you are going to use the runner to cover stains on your table, then opt for a more simple design. Let us look at some of the frequently asked questions for making DIY runners.
How Long Should a Table Runner Be?
When you’re buying a runner, it isn’t easy to know how long it should be. It is because the ideal length depends entirely on what you’re using it for. For example, if you’re using it to give your dining table a splash of color, length is of no importance. However, if you’re protecting a tablecloth from stains while dining, your table runner should extend to the floor.
Either way, it should be long enough to cover the entire table lengthwise but not hang down too low. Around 90 per cent of table runners are the standard 70-inch length. This length is most common because it fits a standard dining table length perfectly.
How Much Fabric Do I Need to Make a Runner?
When you buy new fabric to make a table runner, it is tempting to cut out the pattern piece, lay it on top of the new fabric and cut it out. It is what we usually do when making a simple table runner with a single layer of fabric. But when you need to make a layered table runner, it is not as simple as laying out the pattern piece and cutting.
There are many variables to consider when deciding how much fabric you need for a table runner. Pattern complexity, fabric width, seam allowance and total yardage are only some of the important factors to consider. On top of all this, you also need to decide the length of the table and the length of the runner. So, in a nutshell, whatever fabric you go for, measure it well and make sure that it is easy to maintain and clean.
What is the Best Fabric for a Table Runner?
Table runners are made of fabrics that include cotton, polyester, silk or vinyl. Out of these, cotton is best for daily purpose as it is low maintenance and affordable.
For occasions, silk is ideal as they give a delicate and elegant look to the complete setting. However, polyester fabric is also used for table runners that are used regularly by families. It is expensive than cotton but costs less than silk but offers a beautiful look at your dining table.
How to Make a Table Runner?
Making a table runner is not a tedious task. All you need are stitching tools, sewing machines, glue and decorative or accessories to beautify the runner.
- Measure the length of your dining table and cut fabric according to the length, but 20-inches longer.
- Fold over a third of the runner lengthwise. Make sure it lies parallel to the edge. Then make a clean and straight cut using the edge as a border.
- Then fold the runner lengthwise from both sides and iron it. Make sure to starch it as well.
- Stitch the sides opposite the fold to create a long tube.
- Cut the excess corners at the end as it will prevent any extra fabric from hanging down.
- Â Iron it again to set the creases right.
Creating or making a table runner is not a challenge. Rather, it is an interesting task that will help you make amazing runners for half the cost. With them in the house, your table or bed will never look bad or simple. You can also experiment with multiple colors or refer to various designs available online.
