Table runners for every table

How to choose a table runner

Start with the look you want. A crinkled gauze runner gives a soft, relaxed feel for daily meals. Satin brings a smooth shine for holidays and parties. Linen has a natural texture that works all year.

Next, think about color. Neutral tones like beige, ivory, white and cream blend with most table settings. Deeper tones like burgundy, navy blue, dark green and rust add contrast. Printed designs, such as the Christmas Wreath runner, set a theme on their own.

Finally, check the size against your table. A runner should hang over each end by about 6 to 12 in (15 to 30 cm) if you want a drop. If you prefer a flat look, choose a length close to your table length.

Sizes and measuring

Measure your table length first, then add the drop you want on both ends. This gives you the runner length you need.

The Wrinkle Gauze Table Runner comes in sizes that vary by listing option, so check each option before you buy. The Satin Table Runner is 12 x 71 in (30 x 180 cm), a common size for a six seat table. The Crinkled Cheesecloth Gauze Runner comes in 35 x 71 in (90 x 180 cm) and 35 x 118 in (90 x 300 cm). The Crinkled Gauze Table Runner is 35 x 118 in (90 x 300 cm). The Gauze Crinkle Table Runner is 16 x 108 in (40 x 275 cm). The Viking Raven Linen Table Runner is 59 x 13 in (150 x 33 cm). The Numbered Birthday Table Runner is 13.78 x 70.87 in (35 x 180 cm). The Christmas Wreath Table Runner is 13 x 71 in (35 x 180 cm). The Boho Macrame Table Runner is 12 in (30 cm) wide, and the sizes listed are the length of the runner.

Width matters too. Wider runners, around 35 in (90 cm), cover more of the table and suit a full place setting. Narrow runners, around 12 to 16 in (30 to 40 cm), leave more wood or cloth showing and work well with a centerpiece.

Some runners offer custom sizes. The Gauze Crinkle Table Runner and the Viking Raven Linen Table Runner both note custom sizes on request.

Materials and what they suit

Gauze and cheesecloth runners are light, semi-sheer and matte. They drape softly and work for casual dinners, brunches and boho settings. Options here include the Wrinkle Gauze Table Runner in 100% polyester, the Crinkled Cheesecloth Gauze Runner in 100% polyester, the Crinkled Gauze Table Runner in a polyester cotton blend and the Gauze Crinkle Table Runner in 100% polyester.

Satin is smooth and shiny. The Satin Table Runner suits weddings, birthdays and holiday meals. It comes in 22 colors, from ivory and white to royal blue, burgundy, rose gold and black.

Linen has a printed weave and a natural hand. The Viking Raven Linen Table Runner is 100% linen and comes in brown, black and beige.

Polyester weave runners are light and matte. The Numbered Birthday Table Runner has a black base with gold print, and the number design is printed on one side. The Christmas Wreath Table Runner comes in beige wreath, red Merry Christmas, beige tree, beige Santa, cream Santa and red plaid.

The Boho Macrame Table Runner is a polyester cotton blend with a woven knit and embroidered pattern. It has tassels on both ends and comes in khaki and gray.

Care and everyday use

All runners on this page share the same basic care: machine wash cold, hang dry and low iron. That keeps the weave and color in good shape.

A few notes help. Satin can show creases, so a low iron on the back side smooths it out. Gauze and cheesecloth are meant to look crinkled, so a light press is often enough. Linen softens with each wash.

Color can vary a little. The Satin Table Runner notes that color may vary slightly from photos. The Gauze Crinkle Table Runner notes that color may vary slightly by batch. If you need two runners to match closely, order them together.

Most runners are sold per piece. The Crinkled Gauze Table Runner is sold as a single runner or a 6-pack, which helps when you dress several tables at once.

Styling ideas

For a casual table, lay a gauze runner down the center and add simple plates and a small vase. For a holiday table, choose the Christmas Wreath runner in red plaid or beige Santa, then add candles. For a party, a satin runner in gold, rose gold or royal blue brings shine without much effort.

Mix widths to fit the meal. A wide runner suits a full spread of dishes. A narrow runner leaves room for serving bowls on the table. The Boho Macrame runner adds texture to a plain cloth, and its tassels finish both ends.

Layer a runner over a plain tablecloth for color and pattern. This store also carries tablecloths, placemats, napkins and curtains, so you can bring the same tone across the room.