Check out this link and the tutorial on the table topper, it's so easy and could be stunning with the right color combinations, and the shape makes it appear a lot harder than it is.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbmjFsusdQo
And here's a really simple table runner. I'm not good with measuring and piecing, but I made several of these last year and they turned out really good.
http://quiltbug.com/free/table-topper.htm
Click on "table runner" at the top of the link below and you'll get a PDF pattern for an easy runner
http://www.quiltingconnect.com/freepatterns.htm
If you have a beautiful print, or fabric with a design on it like dancing snowmen, just cut a rectangle of fabric, put borders all around it, add batting and backing and quilt it, then add your binding. Or, if you're like me and binding is not something you enjoy, try this technique where you allow enough fabric on the back to be pulled over and used as binding, then sew down with a decorative stitch.
http://www.lorettaalvarado.com/binding.htm
The above technique allows you make your runner as long, or as short, as you want.
Or, sew batting and 2 layers of fabric (right sides together) together, leaving an opening, turn right side out, sew the opening closed, and sew 1" to 1-1/2" around the edge for a look that appears to be binding.