Want to create the perfect party table without spending a ton of money? This easy DIY tutorial will show you how to make a fabric table runner for less!
Maybe it’s because my birthday is in March that I’ve got parties on the brain. Last week I shared how to make paper garlands, a DiY project I did for my dear friend’s daisy-themed 40th birthday party. This week I am going to show you how to make the fabric table runners we used to decorate the tables.
This is a very easy project but you will need a sewing machine, as well as thread, iron & ironing board (starch helps too), and a length of fabric at least 20 inches longer than the length of the table you want to make the runner for.
What I love about this project is that while these table runners add a great pop of color to any party setting (and you can make them match any color scheme), they are infinitely reusable and look great after the party too.
How to Make a Fabric Table Runner
Step 1: Measure your table lengthwise (if that is the way you want your runner to go), the cut a length of fabric approximately 20 inches longer. I used a pinking shears to prevent the edges from fraying, but all the raw edges will be hidden, so it is not essential.
Step 2: Lay out the fabric flat, then fold over a third of the fabric lengthwise. Line it up so that it is parallel to the edge, then cut using edge as a guide. You can save the excess third to make another runner or use it for other craft projects.
Step 3: Fold the fabric in half lengthwise so that the right sides are facing each other. Starch and iron the whole piece, ironing the fold flat.
Step 4: Sew the sides opposite the fold together, creating a long tube.
Step 5: Sew one end together.
Step 6: Clip the corners of the sewn end. This will help prevent the excess fabric from bunching up when you turn it inside out.
Step 7: Flip the fabric so that the right sides are facing out, taking care to press out the corners as flat as possible.
Step 8: Lay runner out and iron flat.
Step 9: Fold unsewn end in so that raw edges are hidden. Iron flat.
Step 10: Sew around all edges leaving a 3/4-1″ margin, depending on desired look. You can sew in one continuous rectangle or do four intersecting lines (like below).
I bought the fabric (it was in the quilting section) on sale at JoAnn’s for $4 a yard. I bought 7 yards, which made 4 runners of varying sizes, making the price per runner about $7 each.
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Should I pre-wash the fabric before cutting?
Yes, I would suggest pre-washing fabric.