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How to Make a Table Runner – Step-by-Step Guide (2024)

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tutorialshow to make a table runnerAre you looking for a new and creative way to spruce up your dining room table? If so, why not consider making a unique table runner that will add an eye-catching touch of flair to any dinner party or gathering?

Making your own custom-made table runner is easier than you might think! In this step-by-step guide on how to make a table runner, we’ll take you through all the supplies needed as well as the dyeing process with indigo.

We’ll also share some ideas on what types of fabrics work best for creating these beautiful pieces.

So get ready because it’s time to learn how to make a stunning handmade piece that will impress everyone who sees it!

Key Takeaways

  • Gather essential supplies and durable fabrics like quilting cottons.
  • Prepare an indigo vat for dyeing using the itajime shibori technique.
  • Create mesmerizing dye patterns by applying the dye-resist technique.
  • Unfold, wash, and stitch the dyed fabric for a polished table runner look.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Table Runner

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Table Runner
Embark on a journey of creative crafting as we delve into the step-by-step guide for fashioning a captivating table runner. We’ll cover everything from assembling the essential supplies to achieving the exquisite art of dyeing with indigo, resulting in a stunning table-setting masterpiece that’s bound to impress.

Supplies Needed

Get ready for your creative adventure with essential fabric options and appliqué shapes.

Preparing the Indigo Vat

Time to dive into the colorful world of your project! Ready to roll up those sleeves and start by preparing the indigo vat for your creative journey.

Gather your chosen fabric, be it for table decor or DIY crafts. The indigo dyeing process, using the itajime shibori technique, awaits. Grab your rectangular wood blocks – these will play a crucial role. Secure your fabric between these blocks for the dye-resist effect.

The vibrant indigo dye will seep into the fabric, creating mesmerizing patterns. Dip your fabric-bound blocks into the indigo vat, giving your fabric its unique touch. Submerge and lift, allowing the fabric to interact with the dye. As you repeat the process, notice the evolving shades of blue appearing.

Embrace the creative techniques as each dip brings new surprises. Your fabric transforms, ready to adorn your table as an artful runner.

Folding the Tablecloth

As you carefully fold the vibrant fabric, the tablecloth’s intricate pattern emerges.

Binding the Tablecloth (Option 1)

For a polished finish, move on to binding the tablecloth with Option 1, which offers a seamless edge that beautifully frames your creation. Did you know that using a binding fabric that complements your design can elevate the overall look of your table runner? Master machine techniques for corner mitering, explore stitch variations, and enhance color coordination.

Binding the Tablecloth (Option 2)

Now, let’s explore another fantastic way to finish your creation with style. Add a touch of charm to your project by using the Double Fold Finish technique. Achieve a polished look by incorporating Contrast Stitching along the edges, creating a decorative and eye-catching detail.

This method works particularly well with a Reversible Design, enhancing both sides of your table runner. To begin, cut the fabric strips and then apply fusible web. Iron them in place. Next, secure the layers together with your sewing machine using the self-binding method.

Your table runner will exude elegance with this intricate yet achievable technique.

Binding the Tablecloth (Option 3)

Embrace the final touch, where the fabric’s journey culminates in a seamless embrace. Mitered corners add sophistication, while decorative stitching enhances the allure of the contrast fabric. Achieve a reversible design that captivates, skillfully uniting through binding techniques.

Dyeing With Indigo

Indulge in indigo dyeing, immersing fabric in vibrant shades with Shibori patterns.

Unfolding, Washing, and Stitching

As your journey continues, imagine the fabric’s story unfolding, revealing intricate patterns.

Setting the Table

Arrange your chosen fabric pieces with precision, crafting a visual symphony that sets the ambiance for your dining experience. Balancing color hues breathes life into tablescapes. Mix textures for contrast against place settings.

Layer fabrics and textiles for depth and dimension. Experiment with shapes and patterns as your creativity permits. Hand or machine appliqué accents personalize placemats. Stitch whimsical motifs with care, delighting guests.

Play with dimension, delving into the third one. Settings become sculptural artworks to behold. Blank canvases transform through thoughtful intent. Imagination made manifest upon the table.

Best Fabrics for Table Runners

Best Fabrics for Table Runners
When making a table runner, selecting the perfect fabric is key to creating a stylish and functional piece for your home. Quilting cottons, linen, and even upcycled materials like tea towels or napkins can become beautiful yet durable table runners with a little creativity and sewing skill.

Choosing the Right Fabric

When selecting fabrics for your table runner, opt for quilting cottons that offer durability, easy care, and a bit of structure. With the myriad of prints and colors available, coordinate your fabrics thoughtfully.

Play with textures that provide visual interest and patterns that harmonize. Prioritize fabrics with durability, especially for table runners subject to frequent use and washing.

Cocktail and Dinner Napkins

Pick cotton prints in bright colors and fun patterns for cheerful cocktail and dinner napkins. Coordinate with placemats and table runners for a cohesive table setting. Vibrant indigo-dyed napkins inject casual flair.

Machine embroider initials or motifs using an embroidery hoop. Finish napkin edges with rolled hemming or serged binding techniques.

Placemats

Crafting your placemats is where the real fun begins – you’ll be amazed at how these vibrant pieces effortlessly transform your dining space into a dazzling feast for the eyes!

Coordinate designs with your tablecloth for a pulled-together look. Tea towels can inspire reversible appliqué techniques. Quilting inspiration abounds when stitching fabric into placemats. Your appliqué machine embroidery creates reversible designs.

Tea Towels

Your vibrant tea towels can really bring a kitchen together. Mixing fabrics adds style. Sew on vintage buttons. Paint personalized motifs. Stamp clover shapes. Customize with fabric pens. Embroider initials and names. Appliqué fruit slices. Stencil cheerful sayings. Create lasting memories.

Tablecloths and Table Runners

Choose cotton print fabrics for a fun table runner that will spruce up your dining space.

  1. Select 100% cotton fabrics like quilting cottons, calicos, and broadcloths for the best results.
  2. Look for prints like florals, geometrics, and novelty themes to liven up your table.
  3. Prewash fabrics before sewing to avoid shrinkage and bleeding when washed later.
  4. Press fabrics with a hot iron to remove wrinkles and creases before cutting and sewing.

Add a pop of color and personality to your dining table with a lively printed cotton table runner!

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before gathering supplies, envision the finished table runner to inspire your fabric and color selections. Select quality quilting cottons in colors that complement your decor. Coordinate prints and solids for the runner top, appliques, and backing.

Choose soft cotton batting and heat fusible webbing for appliques. Creative layouts like circles or zigzags allow reversible designs. Prep needed supplies like a rotary cutter, ruler, and mat. Don’t forget sewing machine accessories, thread, binding, and hand-sewing needles.

Step 2: Prepare the Indigo Vat

Step 2: Prepare the Indigo Vat
Immerse yourself in the rich blue hues as you gently stir the indigo vat, watching the pigment swirl and dissolve to create the perfect dye bath for your hand-dyed table runner.

5 key steps for preparing an indigo dye vat:

  1. Dissolve pre-reduced indigo powder in warm water.
  2. Mix soda ash into the solution as the alkali.
  3. Pour the indigo solution into a plastic bucket.
  4. Add enough cool water to fill the bucket halfway.
  5. Gently stir the vat with a wooden stick until a consistent color is achieved.

Step 3: Fold the Tablecloth

Step 3: Fold the Tablecloth
Now gather the corners, lift and lower gently to dye those waiting folds of cotton. Carefully fold the tablecloth lengthwise, matching the selvages, then accordion pleat it into even widths.

Turn and fold it over on itself, creating contrasting patterns of white and blue. Layer the folds gently, mindful not to disturb the fabric. Immerse completely, allowing the indigo to permeate each crease and curve.

Unfurl the cloth, reveal the beauty of the dye penetrating the layers in mesmerizing designs. Your patience and artistry transforms simple cotton into a reversible tablecloth, each side a testament to the mastery of shibori.

Step 4: Bind the Tablecloth (Option 1)

Step 4: Bind the Tablecloth (Option 1)
Bout time you finish up that table runner by binding it quick ‘n easy with some pre-made bias tape.

  • Run that bias tape maker along the fabric’s edge.
  • Press the tape down with a hot iron.
  • Pin the tape to the runner.
  • Sew the tape down, encasing the edges.
  • Give it a final press and admire your handiwork!

With those creative borders in place, you’ve added some fine finishing touches. That secure attachment means no fraying and a clean look.

Step 5: Bind the Tablecloth (Option 2)

Step 5: Bind the Tablecloth (Option 2)
Apply double-fold bias tape around the edges to add a clean finish to your reversible table runner. Feed the prepared bias tape through your machine, aligning the edge of the tape with the edge of the runner.

Stitch slowly, pivoting at each corner. For sharp mitered corners, stop stitching 1⁄4 before the corner, fold the bias tape, then continue stitching.

Trim any excess tape and neatly join the ends. Press the finished binding with an iron to crease the folds. Your reversible runner now has a tailored finish, ready to grace tables and dress up decor.

This simple yet sophisticated method utilizes basic machine techniques with thoughtful fabric selections. The result is a professional reversible finish perfect for enhancing any space with your creative touch.

Step 6: Bind the Tablecloth (Option 3)

Step 6: Bind the Tablecloth (Option 3)
Simply fold the backing fabric over the edges and topstitch all around for a creative finish. Embrace alternatives like using the backing fabric itself as a reversible binding. This eliminates the need to cut binding strips and gives your table runner a colorful edge when flipped over.

Play with machine techniques like a narrow zigzag stitch or varied thread colors when topstitching to add artistic flair. Whether you want a simple tablecloth, reversible runner, or colorful showpiece, experimenting with binding finishes allows you to put your personal spin on projects.

Creative binding keeps things fun and showcases your unique style.

Step 7: Dye With Indigo

Step 7: Dye With Indigo
Immersing your table runner in a vat of indigo dye builds depth and vibrancy after machine quilting. The natural indigo hues interact with the cotton to produce unique blue shades from light to dark. Using shibori techniques like tying, clamping, and stitching gives varied texture.

The handmade quality creates vibrancy that machine quilting alone can’t achieve.

Creative dyeing yields stunning gradients when you tightly gather certain sections. Unfolding the dyed fabric reveals beautiful random designs resembling fireworks. For added color dimension, select a topstitching thread that complements or contrasts the indigo shades.

Step 8: Unfold, Wash, and Stitch

Step 8: Unfold, Wash, and Stitch
As your hands carefully unfold the indigo-dyed fabric, a wave of excitement washes over you at the reveal of the beautiful blue patterns imprinted on the cotton. Gently wash the fabric in cold water to remove any excess dye. Lay it flat to dry.

Pin the front and back pieces with wrong sides together. Use a 1⁄4-inch seam allowance and straight stitch around all sides, leaving an opening for turning. Clip the corners, turn it right side out, and press it well. Topstitch 1⁄8” from the edge, closing the opening.

Add ties or trim as desired. Your stunning hand-dyed table runner is ready to grace any table.

Step 9: Set the Table

Step 9: Set the Table
Revel in pride as you unveil your handcrafted table runner, welcoming guests to gather ’round its charm and connect over homemade hospitality. Make the table pop with a contemporary checkered tablecloth and coordinating colorful placemats.

Protect surfaces from messy eaters with reversible, double-sided placemats. Tie in the season with a coordinating table arrangement. Your custom Spoonflower dining fabric elevates the occasion. Let your creative table setting ideas shine through handmade touches, pairing beautifully with your new table runner centerpiece.

Conclusion

Have you ever wanted to make a beautiful and unique table runner? With this step-by-step guide, you can create a stunning table runner using the traditional Japanese art of indigo dyeing. Gather your supplies, prepare the indigo vat, fold the tablecloth, bind the tablecloth, dye with indigo, unfold, wash, and stitch.

Finally, set the table with your own custom table runner. From choosing the right fabric to perfecting the dyeing process, this tutorial will help you create a one-of-a-kind table runner that will impress your guests.

With the right supplies and a little time and effort, you can make a beautiful table runner that will last for years to come.

References
  • sewingfromhome.com
Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief of sewingtrip.com, a site dedicated to those passionate about crafting. With years of experience and research under his belt, he sought to create a platform where he could share his knowledge and skills with others who shared his interests.