I usually make two different table runners and sew together. Generally 2 different holidays so that they are doing double duty.

You could also use muslin as your main fabric with strips of pretty fabric...or use it with scraps to make a patch work back... I like the idea of dyeing it to match the colors on the front, too.

Hi all,

For really special table toppers or table runners I have used some really nice decorator swatches - mostly the soft velour feel type - that I received FREE! They feel lush and the recipients love them.

alice

I am going to "help "my adopted niece (6) make a table runner for her family for Christmas. She wants it to say I love you with a patchwork heart, I'm figuring 24x36 & have the basic plan down(using scraps so not an expense for me.my question is I've got a big piece of red felt can I use that easily as the backing? Will it shrink or loose it's dye--- I don't think it's the most expensive felt(it was given to me)should I wash it first?

I would test a piece of the red felt, wet it and lay it on an old terry towel. If the colour bleeds, I wouldn't even try preshrinking it.

I like pretty fabric on the back that way if something spills on the front they can turn it over and use the other side a bit longer before having to wash it. Reversable.. sometimes one theme on one side and a different holiday on the other makes it twice as useful.

I've been making placemats and runners that are reversible and great for making one side Halloween and the other Thanksgiving. One side birthday fabric and the other a child or adult noveltly pattern another one is the Christmas and winter on the other side. Gift receivers love them as they serve double purpose. :lol: