Reversible linen table runner

You can really coordinate your rooms dcor by using a linen table runner. For a more formal look you can use a long runner that runs off the edges of the table, while smaller runners work great to highlight a centerpiece. You can add unique touches to your runner including tassels, welting, or other trim.

You might want to consider a reversible lined runner if you are unable to decide between a print or solid color for your runner. Another great idea is to use different seasonal themes on either side of the runner to make it more festive and versatile. Table runners are a great way to easily add a decorative and seasonal touch to your home.

Measurements Your first step is to determine the desired finished length and width of your runner. Since you will be using inch seams all the way around, add one inch to all your measurements.

For runners that will run the entire length of the table, a drop off the table of between eight and ten inches usually looks best. If you are using the crosswise grain, the maximum length of your runner will be one inch shorter than the width. The crosswise grain is the grain that is perpendicular to the salvage. You can make your table runner any length you desire if you use the lengthwise grain, or the grain that runs parallel to the salvage. The only problem with using the lengthwise grain is that you will end up wasting more fabric.

Cut any welting or trimming you plan to use for your runner. It is also a good idea to cut a piece that is a little larger than the actual circumference of the runner.

Instructions Your first step here will be to mark and cut both your front fabric and your lining.

Your next step will be to give your runner a 45-degree point at the end. First, fold the front fabric in half lengthwise. Once the cut edges are perfectly aligned pin the fabric to keep it from moving. You will want to find the point that is 8 inches from the end on the cut side and then draw a diagonal line to the edge of the folded side. Making sure to keep all the edges aligned, carefully cut through both layers of fabric along your line.

This step will need to be repeated on the runners other end. You can now remove all your pins and unfold your runner. You will need to create the same detail on your lining. This step is easier since you can use your runner as a pattern.

This is the point to add any welting that will be used. Affix to the right side of the runner top with pins along the outer edge. Make sure the raw edges are aligned during this process. To ensure that the welting lies flat when you are done, keep the welting relaxed as you pin, being sure to crowd it slightly around the edges. You will want to overlap the ends along one long edge, leaving the tails unpinned.

A notch should be place in the seam allowance of the welting at each corner of the runner exactly where it will need to bend. You can then clip up to the stitching line, being sure not to clip through it. Your welting seams will lie flat if you perform this step. The raw edges of the runner and the welting should be aligned as you securely pin them together.

You sewing machine zipper foot should be adjusted to the right of the needle after it is attached. Starting two inches from the end of the welting, place the linen under the presser foot. Stitch the welting to the linen directly over the existing stitches in the welting.

At each corner you should stop and pivot the linen. This will ensure that the needle is in line with the welting on the other side. Continue this process all the way around the runner.

Two inches from the point were the end of the welting will meet you should stop stitching. The end of the welting should be trimmed so that it overlaps the other end by no more than one inch. The stitching should be removed from the overlapping end of the welting, which means you will need to expose the inner cording. The cording should be trimmed so that it just buts up against the end of the other cord end.

The linen should be folded under inch on the end of the welting that overlaps. To finish stitching the runner you will need to wrap the welting around the beginning. Wherever the stitches meet they should overlap by inch.

To set the seam and smooth out the line you will want to use the end of your iron to press along the stitches. Look along the line where you attached the welting to ensure that the linen is smooth, without rippling or drawing up.

Pin the front over the lining casing, making sure that the right sides of the fabric are together and the welting is between the two layers. The outer edges should be aligned. In order to turn the linen to its correct sides later on be sure to leave an opening of seven inches along the side.

The pinned liner and front should be placed under the zipper foot of your sewing machine. Place the liner side down so that you are able to see the stitches you used to attach the welting. You will stitch over this previous stitch line to attach your liner to your front.

The second line of stitching will need to be exactly on top of the first, or slightly closer to the welting to prevent the first stitch line from showing after the table runner is turned right side out. Backstitch at both sides of your seven inch opening in order to reinforce those seams. Keeping the needle in the down position, pivot the fabric at all the corners and points.

To have smooth corners once you turn the fabric right side out it is a good idea to trim the seam allowances diagonally at each point and corner. The seams allowances of the unstitched area should be turned back inch and pressed on the wrong side.

It is now time to turn your runner right side out. Reach in through the opening and pull each pointed end through your hole.

You should use a point turner if necessary to push the ends of the points out completely. The opening should now be slip stitched shut and the entire runner should be pressed right side out.

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