How to Make a Reversible Applique Table Runner

In this tutorial, you will learn how to make a simple table runner with applique. This table runner is a very quick make but adds a lovely touch to your table.

Choosing your Size

To decide on the size of your table runner, measure your own table. Even if this is a gift, you can use your table to estimate what would be a desirable size for someone else. Start by measuring your length. I prefer to have about 8″ of space after the table runner to the end of the table. Subtract 15 inches from the length of your table. For the width of your table runner, I use the rule of roughly 1/3 the width of your table. Measure your table’s width and divide by 3.

These will give you measurements for a table runner for your table. If this is for someone else, you may want to adjust slightly depending on the table you used for measurements. For example, if you have a very long table, you may want to make the table runner shorter. Also, it is common for people to have table runners that hang off the table; you could choose this option as well. Just measure the length of your table and add the amount of hanging space you would like on each end.

Using the length and width you just determined, cut two pieces of fabric, one for the front and one for the back. Also cut a piece of cotton batting for in between the front and back.

Choosing Applique

Now it is time to decide what design to put on your table runner. You will applique this shape onto each side. You can choose the same shape or different shapes. You also have choices on placement. I chose to place my shape on each end of the table runner, but you could also place your shape in the middle.

Where do you get these shapes? Of course, you could sketch them, but there are also so many other great options. There are several free resources available that provide images that are CC friendly, meaning you have the right to use them. First, you could print out a shape from Canva, but you will need to make an account. Other options are Pixabay and Pexels. Here are a few holiday-related shapes I found on these sites:

After you choose an image, print it out, and cut around the edge to make a template. If you cannot find something you like, you can always sketch out your shape. I printed a simple tree image and sketched out a dove for my table runner.

Before cutting out the shapes from fabric, decide if you would like to use an adhesive or not. On my table runner, I did not use an adhesive. However, there are raw edges on my shapes, which may be more noticeable after washing. I like this, but if you do not want any raw edges, use Heat n Bond – Lite. Follow the directions on the Heat n Bond package to bond the adhesive to the back side of the fabric before cutting out your shape.

Place the shape on top of the fabric, trace, and cut. Repeat to make two shapes – one for each side. Repeat this process to make shapes for the back side of the table runner.

Sewing Shapes onto the Table Runner

First, it is important to line up the shapes in the center of the table runner and at the same location on both sides. Use your cutting ruler to mark the center of the table runner and the distance from the end on each side. The bottom of my shape is 6″ from the end of the table runner and the middle is 7.5″. I used my ruler to align my shape as I was sticking it into place. Use basting spray to lightly spray the area where your shape will be placed. Place the shape on top and smooth with your hands until it is flat, ensuring it is still centered.

It’s time to sew! My method is to sew as close as I can to the line with a straight stitch. I’ve mentioned that I find raw edges enduring, but I know this is not for everyone. Alternatively, you could use a zig-zag stitch on a short stitch length, an applique stitch (if your machine has one), or a straight stitch with the Heat n Bond. In the image below, you can see how close my needle is to the edge. I very slowly sew along the image in this way.

Quilting & Finishing

It’s time to make the quilt sandwich. This means the table runner sides are both right side out with a piece of batting in between. Use basting spray or pins to baste the three layers together. Quilt through all three layers in your preferred design. I quilted simple straight lines running vertically through the table runner. After quilting, trim any excess batting.

Make binding by cutting strips of fabric 2.5″ in width x width of fabric. Depending on the size of your table runner, you will likely need between 2-4 strips. Sew these strips together on the short ends. Press the strips in half vertically and sew the raw edge to the raw edge of the table runner. Flip the binding to the other side of the table runner and sew as close to the folded edge as possible (scant 1/8″). Since the bottom thread will show on the other side of the table runner, you may want to use a bobbin thread that matches the fabric on the other side.

Alternatively, you can use a different method to make a table runner without binding which looks very polished. For this method, lay your two sides of the table runner with right sides together (see image below). Lay a piece of batting on the wrong side of one of these sides. the batting needs to be exactly the same size as the table runner. Sew 3/8″ around the edge of the table runner leaving an 8″ space open. Flip the table runner and iron. Sew a 1/4″ seam around the entire outer edge, folding in the opening and ensuring it is sewn shut. Lightly quilt all three layers to finish. I love this method, but I must warn you that it can be frustrating if you are using wovens or any fabric that is shifty. It works best for fabrics with a tight weave that will not shift during the quilting phase.

That’s all there is to this table runner. It’s such a quick and fun project, but it adds such a lovely touch to your dining table during the holidays. These also make wonderful gifts to family and friends. If you make one, I would love to hear about it. Leave a comment or send me a picture.