Sew A Table Runner
Do you need to cover up watermarks on a favorite table but don’t want the hassle of refinishing it? Or, is a corner of your room begging for some color but you can’t afford a new upholstered chair? Then think about sewing a gorgeous table runner for a small table, dresser or even an old piece of luggage or a dilapidated trunk you rescued from a junk shop. Voila, you have an innovative, bright accent to spruce up your room.
A table runner is an ideal beginner sewing project. Easy table runners require straight stitching and basic measuring, cutting and pinning skills, and not much else unless you want to upgrade your runner with braid or other trims. You can also embellish your runner with an appliquéd motif or use quilted fabric you have made yourself. As in the photo here, you can combine techniques with a mix of fabrics and embroidery in appealing colors. Use your creative imagination to put your distinctive stamp on this useful and attractive design element. All in all, this is an ideal way to practice your techniques and spruce up your home at the same time. Here are some ideas that show you how to create easy sewing patterns for your home.
Size
The length of your runner will depend on the size of your table. Measure your tabletop and add at least one-half the length for the drop. You will want to add a few more inches to each end if you desire a point, which really adds a nice, polished finish. You can stitch a tassel or jeweled element to the ends for that special touch of bling.
Typically, your table runner will be 18 inches wide, but if you have a smaller or larger space, adjust accordingly.
Double Sided
Rather than fussing with hemming, we recommend sewing a table runner double sided with coordinating, contrasting or matching fabric as a liner. You cut to measure, place right sides together and sew three ends. Pull inside out, press with a heavy weight iron, and hand stitch the open end close. Attach embellishments to the points at either end if desired, and presto, a beautiful table runner graces your room.
For dining areas you can move them to the edge of the table for small groups in place of table cloths or placemats. If children are at your table, you might want to use washable fabrics.
Finishing Touches
If you want to make this a quick and dirty project, you can use only one layer of decorative fabric and hem the edges. If your sewing machine has a hemmer foot, this feature will make quick work of finishing off your table runner. If you are sewing by hand, use a hem stitch or back stitch to finish off the runner.
As an option, however, you can trim the edges with braid or ribbon for a designer effect. Also, you might want to consider top-stitching the edges in a matching or contrasting color. This is a place for novelty threads which can add a distinctive touch. Whichever technique you choose, you will have completed a sewing project that will upgrade your skills, confidence and home decor appeal.
credits to: thehomesewingplace.com
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