How To Make A Quilted Table Runner

A quilted table runner adds a touch of homemade charm and personality to any dining space. This guide provides a step-by-step process for crafting a beautiful and functional quilted table runner.

Gathering Materials

Before beginning the project, assembling the necessary materials is crucial. This ensures a smooth and uninterrupted workflow.

Fabric: Choose coordinating fabrics for the top, backing, and binding. Consider the existing décor of the room when selecting patterns and colors.
Batting: Select a batting appropriate for quilting. Cotton or cotton blend batting is a popular choice for table runners.
Rotary Cutter and Mat: These tools ensure accurate and efficient cutting of fabric pieces.
Quilting Ruler: A clear ruler is essential for precise measurements and straight lines.
Sewing Machine: A sewing machine capable of straight stitching and free-motion quilting is recommended.
Thread: Choose thread that matches or complements the chosen fabrics.
Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing seams is crucial for a professional-looking finished product.
Scissors: Sharp scissors are needed for trimming threads and cutting fabric.
Pins: Pins are used to hold fabric layers together during sewing.

Designing and Cutting the Fabric

Careful planning and accurate cutting are essential for achieving the desired design and final dimensions.

Determine Dimensions: Decide on the desired length and width of the table runner. Standard lengths typically range from 14 to 16 inches wide and vary in length depending on table size.
Choose a Pattern: Select a quilting pattern. Simple patterns like patchwork squares, stripes, or half-square triangles are suitable for beginners.
Calculate Fabric Requirements: Based on the chosen dimensions and pattern, calculate the amount of fabric needed for the top, backing, and binding.
Cut Fabric Pieces: Using the rotary cutter, mat, and ruler, carefully cut the fabric pieces according to the pattern instructions.

Piecing the Table Runner Top

This stage involves assembling the cut fabric pieces to create the decorative top of the table runner.

Arrange Fabric Pieces: Arrange the cut fabric pieces according to the chosen pattern.
Sew Pieces Together: Sew the fabric pieces together using a ¼ inch seam allowance, ensuring precise alignment.
Press Seams: Press the seams open or to one side to create a flat and even surface.

Layering and Basting

Proper layering and basting secure the fabric layers and prevent shifting during the quilting process.

Layering: Lay the backing fabric right side down, followed by the batting, and finally the pieced table runner top right side up.
Basting: Secure the three layers together using safety pins, basting stitches, or a basting spray.

Quilting the Table Runner

Quilting adds texture and dimension to the table runner and secures the three layers together.

Choose a Quilting Design: Select a quilting design that complements the pieced top. Straight lines, stippling, or free-motion quilting are common choices.
Quilt the Layers: Using the sewing machine, quilt the layers together following the chosen design.

Binding the Table Runner

Binding provides a neat and finished edge to the table runner.

Prepare Binding Strips: Cut fabric strips for the binding, typically 2 ½ inches wide.
Sew Binding Strips Together: Join the binding strips to create one long strip.
Attach Binding to Table Runner: Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise and sew it to the edge of the table runner, enclosing the raw edges.
Miter Corners: Create neat mitered corners where the binding turns.
Hand-Stitch Binding: Fold the binding over to the back of the table runner and hand-stitch it in place for a clean finish.

Finishing Touches

Final steps ensure a polished and professional appearance.

Trim Excess Threads: Trim any loose threads from the quilting and binding.
Press Table Runner: Give the finished table runner a final press to remove any wrinkles and set the quilting stitches.