Table Runners

The most typical way to use a runner is straight across the middle of a round table or down the center lengthwise of a rectangle table (often on a head table or buffet).

Consider that when your guests are seated, they will not be able to see the lovely runner accents of a head table. Instead, consider placing two (or even three) runners front to back on a head or serving table. Or, on a round table, place them in a “plus-sign” pattern, using two instead of one.

Another way to create a stunning table scape is to use TWO runners running the full length of an 8ft table. Since tabletops are 30” wide, and runners are typically 12” or 15” wide, placed together with the edges touching in the middle (or slightly overlapped), they create a completely different color or texture for the table top. If runners are 12” wide, you have a choice to place them at each edge, leaving a 6” swath of color down the center of the table, (the linen is seen, sometimes giving the appearance of another narrow runner down the middle).

Or, you can place the 12” runner edges together in the middle of the table, leaving 3” on either side to showcase your base linen.

Are you using wooden farm tables where no cloth will be needed? Runners are a fantastic way to create the backdrop for whatever you will showcase down the middle. Whether you are using flowers, bottles, succulents, or vintage chic objects, the runner sets the stage for your display.