Table runners are a great way to not only protect the surface of your dining table but to make your decorations and ornaments look far more visually appealing. They are ordinarily used by homeowners who are looking for a more luxurious feel to their dining room, with a table runner giving a consistent and symmetrical finish to the table itself.
The great thing is, if you’re a keen sewer, they can also make an enjoyable challenge. Creating your own table runner can put you in charge of colour, sizes and fabric, all of which will help in creating that personalised and unique feel that every dining space should aim for. If this sounds like something that’ll interest you, then here are a few things to keep in mind in order to create something truly special:
Gain Some Online Inspiration
There are plenty of designs to think about when it comes to table runners, so make sure to look around and find something that suits your space. It could come in the most surprising of places. For instance, on the site israeli judaica, there are many designs which utilise ancient Israeli patterns in a beautiful, subtle way, all of which are perfect for gleaning some inspiration from – or, if you’re not feeling up to the challenge, simply purchase them ready-made!
Measure Everything First
As with any DIY job, it’s important to take the time to measure everything. Determine how long and wide your table is, add a few millimetres to your table runner – if you want it to hang over the ends of the table – and then make sure to write all the measurements down.
Purchase Some Different Fabrics
You never quite know which colour or fabric will work until it’s sitting on your table, so make sure to purchase more than one. Think of a table runner as a paint job. When painting any wall, it’s a good idea to mark it up with alternate colours and choose which one works best, and it’s no different when it comes to a table runner. Buy as many fabrics as you want and try them all out – the chances are you’ll use the discarded fabrics somewhere down the line.
Understand Your Fabric
Whatever fabric you choose, you need to remember that you’re going to have to iron it out after the sewing process. Make sure you read the care instructions for the fabric before you do this so that you know what temperature the fabric is okay with – this is also important for washing and drying. There’s no use going to the effort of making the table runner, only for it to be ruined at the final hurdle.
Different Occasions, Different Table Runners
Before you begin, it’s also important to remember to have some fun. If you’re creating a design which you’re enjoying but you’re not sure it will work as well as you want it to, don’t stop. There will be many opportunities to try out different table runners, whether it’s family gatherings, religious holidays, or themed party nights. Make as many table runners as you like, and let your creativity flow.
