Buying guide
Table Runners: Sizes, Fabrics and Christmas Styles
A runner dresses a table for Christmas without hiding the wood. How long and wide it should be, which fabrics wash well, and how to style one.
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A table runner is a narrow strip of fabric down the middle of the table. It adds colour for Christmas, protects the surface under serving dishes, and shows off a wooden table that a full cloth would cover.
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Size
| Measurement | Rule of thumb |
|---|---|
| Length | Table length plus about 15–30 cm overhang at each end, or exactly the table length for a modern look |
| Width | About a third of the table’s width, so there is room for place settings either side |
Measure the table before you buy: runners are usually sold by length.
Fabrics
- Linen: classic and drapes well; creases easily.
- Cotton: easy to wash; often printed with seasonal patterns.
- Wipe-clean or coated: practical with children and red wine.
- Hessian or jute: rustic; can shed and is hard to wash.
Styling
Run it lengthways, or lay several across the table as place mats. Keep centrepieces low enough to see over, and keep candles in stable holders, well away from the fabric.
For more ideas, see Christmas table setting and tablecloths and napkins.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a table runner be?
About 15–30 cm longer than the table at each end, or exactly the table’s length for a neat, modern look.
How wide should a table runner be?
About a third of the table’s width, leaving space for place settings on both sides.
Can I use a runner on top of a tablecloth?
Yes. A contrasting runner over a plain cloth adds colour and protects the cloth under serving dishes.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
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