Table Runners: Everything to Bear in Mind Before Making a Choice
Though the table runner is one of the most popular tabletop embellishments, many of us often have a hard time choosing one. Which size to choose? Which fabric will best suit my décor? Which accessorieas will make my runner more attractive? If these questions still causing you stress, relax – we’ve tucked all your worries away with this catch-all table runner guide.
Placement
Traditionally, the table runner can be placed either lengthwise (down the center of a table) or widthwise across a table. For the lengthwise placement, measure the size of your table – the correct runner size should be about one-third the width of the table and be at least 12 inches longer than your tabletop to allow at least a 6-inch drop. In case you have a tablecloth underneath, please make sure that the drops of your runner and tablecloth are the same length. For the widthwise placement, your table runner should be one-fourth the width of the table. As for the runner’s length, the same 6-inch-drop rule with or without a tablecloth applies. To avoid the cluttered looking display, leave at least a 24-inch gap between each runner.
For an informal setup, you can ignore these rules – while your ensemble will look more feminine with an extra long runner, the shorter runner will give your table that masculine allure.
Сhoosing a Table Runner
Whichever runner you choose, please make sure that it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb. To this effect, consider textures – our organza, satin, and polyester table runners work best with glass or highly lacquered wood. Meanwhile, our lace or burlap runners go perfectly with wood, metal, or ceramics. At the same time, some runners, like the ones made of sequin, are a perfect fit for any texture.
When used along with the tablecloth, your table runner should complement it but not be the same. To make your table more formal and discreet, you can always drape solid-colored runners over the solid-colored linens. However, your setup will look more sophisticated if you opt for a printed runner – like our chevron, stripe, flocking taffeta runner, and beyond – atop plain linens. If you are head over heels for textures, our rosette runners is your remedy – ranging from lace runners with rosettes to satin ones with large rosettes, they look perfect in conjunction with classic satin and polyester tablecloths. Those who need something rare should shop from our collection of designer table runners, which offers everything from lace runners for your burlap linens to shimmering polyester runners for your satin or polyester tablecloths.
Embellishments
It’s no secret that table runners from TableclothsFactory are so stylish and elegant that you can use them as they are without additional accessories. However, if you want them to sing your own song, you have several options to choose from. Thus, for your formal setup, look no further than our diamond buckles – available in different shapes and colors, these adornments will beautify your setup with their shimmer and glimmer.
When it comes to informal displays, sky’s the limit. For a more elegant look, you can trim the ends of your runner with one of our ribbons. Your burlap table runner will look even more appealing if you revamp it by tying a handful of greenery, such as our artificial fern leaves (blooms are allowed as well). For a more dramatic effect, you can run a greenery garland or a string of fairy lights across your runner.
Unusual Uses
To claim that runners can be only used for tables is utterly misleading. The tablecloth runner is ideal for accenting other types of furniture like a night stand, buffet, credenza, or a vanity table – for example, you can use our sequin runner to echo your sequin curtains. To spruce up your plain-jane chair, you can drape it with our mirror foil runner .
If you have an unused wall, you can give it an update by hanging up our lace runner – it will work for you whenever a Bohemian touch is needed. Alternatively, you can bring that Boho-chic into your chilling-out area – simply drape one of the runners across the corner and another one from the ceiling.
As you can see, working the table runner into décor is easier than it seems. Was this guide helpful? What is your favorite way to use the table runner? Please let us know in the comments below!