A table runner is a very simple sewing project that may add a decorative touch to a dining table during special dinners or holiday meals. The runner spans the period of the table and usually overhangs each end. A pointed finish on the runner makes it pleasing to the eye. For added effect, create a second, narrower table runner in a contrasting shade to head on top of their first. Add a decorative stitch in contrasting thread to create a bordered edge.
Measure the period of the table, and include the measurement for how far you want the table runner to hang down on the ends — normally no more than 12 to 18 inches. Determine how wide you want the runner to be. As an instance, if your table is 36 inches wide, a table runner that’s 12 to 16 inches wide spans the center of the table with pleasing lines. A table 60 inches long and 36 inches wide holds a table runner that is 14 inches wide and 84 inches long with pointed ends. To these dimensions, add 1 inch for seam allowances — resulting in 15 inches wide and 85 inches long.
Cut 2 pieces of fabric in the desired dimensions. Pin the wrong sides of the fabric together. This results in a rectangle. The pointed ends are not completed until the finish.
Sew along all seams — except for the last 6 inches on one end. Create seams which measure 1/2 inch. Cut down the seams with zigzag scissors to prevent fraying. As an alternative, it is possible to sew the seam edges with a zigzag stitch.
Turn the runner right-side from the hole left in the end that wasn’t sewn. Pin the fabric together, folding in the raw edges to form the seam. Stitch the finish closed by hand with a whip-stitch.
Create the stage at one end of this table runner by folding each corner in 90 degrees, pinning the sides with them. Sew this seam closed, taking care not to catch the fabric under the seam. Repeat for the other side.
Turn the pointed ends right-side out so that the seams are concealed inside. Iron the table runner apartment.
Thread the machine with a contrasting thread. Sew a patterned stitch 1/8 into 1/4 inch in from the edge on the ideal side of this fabric for a border. You may also sew a metallic rickrack or other border therapy as desirable.