When making or purchasing a table runner for your dining table, you should first determine the proper size of the table runner for your specific table.
You might be wondering....what are the correct table runner dimensions? What is the correct table runner length? How wide is a table runner? How long should my table runner be? Is my table runner too long or too short?
Table runners are not "one size fits all", so it might be difficult for you to easily pick one up at the store without doing a little research.
Here is a general table runner size guide to help you determine the best length and width for your table runner.
Width
A table runner should be sized approximately 1/3 the width of your dining table.
If your dining table is 48 inches wide, the table runner should be approximately 16 inches wide.
If your dining table is 42 inches wide, the table runner should be approximately 14 inches wide.
If you have a round table, the diameter of the table (the maximum width measured from end to end through the center of the table) will count as the width.
If you have a 36 inch diameter round table, the table runner should be approximately 12 inches wide.
If you plan on keeping the table runner on the table while dining, make sure the table runner is sized so there is plenty of room for a dinner plate without it being partially on the table and partially on the table runner.
Some people prefer a thinner or wider table runner to added dining table drama.
If your table runner is too skinny for your table, consider adding a decorative edging or fabric trim to make it wider.
Length
A traditionally sized table runner should be long enough to overhang the end of your table by approximately 6 to 10 inches on each end.
Table runners that are less than these dimensions will look like you ran out of fabric, so longer is better than shorter.
Small pieces of fabric that are shorter than the length of the table don't acually "run" - they are more like a doily that is part of your table centerpiece.
If your table is 72 inches long, the table runner should be 84 to 92 inches long.
If your table is 60 inches long, your table runner should be 72 to 80 inches long.
If you have a 36 inch diameter round table, your table runner should be 48 to 56 inches long.
You can also attach a tassel or decorative accent item to each of the ends, making the overall size of the table runner longer.
When deciding on the length of a table runner, make sure to consider that a person sitting on the end of the table might have the table runner end sitting in their lap.
A current trend is to have extra long table runners for added drama, however you would not be able to do this if you have a guest sitting at the end of your table.
Some people like their table runners so long that they pool on the floor.
If your table runner is too short, consider adding a decorative edge or some contrasting fabric to each end to extend it.
General Table Runner Tips:
Keep in mind that a table runner will fit your dining table differently with or without your table leaf, so you will most likely need two different sized table runners if you plan on using the table runner on the table without the leaf and with the leaf.
If you are only using the table runner for decoration when the table is not being used, you can get one table runner to be used on the table without a leaf but don't use a table runner if you have the leaf in your table because you will have the table set for a dinner party.
Table runner dimensions are approximate, so feel free to adjust the dimensions to suit your needs.
Some people only use table runners as decoration when the table is not being used. Other people use table runners with placemats during dinner parties.
Table runners can be used with or without a table cloth underneath.
Consider getting a reversible table runner with a different fabric on either side (perhaps one side for fall and the other side for spring or one side for everyday and the other side for Christmas).
You might need to DIY your own table runner to fit your dining table the way you want or have one custom made.
You might also like.....
The Ultimate Guide to Tablecloth Sizes: Find the Perfect Fit Every Time
The Ultimate Guide to Placemat Sizes: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Table
Here is some dining room inspiration that you might enjoy....
