15 Easy to Make Modern Quilted Table Runner Patterns
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As a quilter or even someone who enjoys sewing, it’s always fun to make something special for your home, friends, and family. Handmade gifts are cherished so much more than store-bought items. That’s why I want to show you some gorgeous modern quilted table runner patterns in today’s post.
Table runners are one of those items that everyone can use (as long as they have a table, haha!) We’ll review some much-needed info on choosing the right batting and correct sizing, then look at some modern table runners you can create.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quilted Table Runners
I’ve made my fair share of quilted table runners for myself, family, friends, and customers, so believe me when I tell you I had all the same questions you had when I first started. Here are the most commonly asked questions surrounding these DIY quilt projects.
What Kind of Batting Do You Use For a Quilted Runner?
All kinds of battings are available, including 100% cotton, 100% polyester, and 100% wool, as well as all sorts of blends and combinations. Though the type of fiber you use isn’t super important, what is essential is the loft of the batting.
I recommend using a low loft (flat) batting for a DIY table runner. A low loft batting will ensure the runner lays flat on the table and doesn’t bunch or look messy. 100% cotton batting is an excellent choice; plus, the runner can double as a hot pad if you use it on your dining table.
What Size Should a Quilted Table Runner Be?
This is a tricky question since there is no “right” answer. The size depends on you and your preferences. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of modern quilted table runner patterns out there, so you should be able to find one that will suit your table.
For the length of the quilted table runner, you’ll have to decide if you want the runner to drape off the table or to stop a few inches away from the edge. The standard width of table runners is around 12”, but you can adjust that to fit your specific requirements.
How Much Fabric Do I Need For a Quilted Table Runner?
Like any sewing project, the amount of fabric you need will rely heavily on the size of the finished project and the pattern you choose. As a good rule of thumb, you’ll probably need a couple of yards for most table runner patterns. The pattern you choose will give you all the fabric requirements necessary for the project.
Need an idea of what to buy as a beginner quilter? Check out this blog post, where I tell you exactly what you need to create your first quilted project.
15 Insanely Gorgeous Table Runner Ideas
Now that we’ve discussed the basics of size, fabric requirements, and batting, let’s take a look at some beautiful DIY table runners. Many of these are perfect beginner quilter projects; you can make them in just a few hours.
1. Bohemian Table Runner
How gorgeous is this bohemian table runner made by the amazing Suzy Quilts? She offered this free holiday pattern on her site, and I am obsessed! This tutorial is unique in that you ultimately control the size and shape of your table runner. You can also decide how many applique pieces you use and where you put them.
2. Sawtooth Star Quilted Table Runner
Here is a simple and fun free tutorial from the late Melanie Ham. She was an inspiration to many with her easy-to-follow sewing tutorials, and she is sorely missed in the sewing community. Her tutorial shows you how to create this beautiful sawtooth star block in two sizes and create a lovely modern table runner with them.
3. Laguna Table Runner
I found this modern quilted table runner pattern on Etsy from the shop “frommartawithlove.” This pattern includes instructions to create this uniquely modern geometric table runner suitable for any skill level. The finished table runner measures 15” x 50”.
4. Log Cottage
If you are a log cabin quilt block fan, this pattern is a perfect choice. Anna from Fresh Dew Drops created this fun pattern she offers in her Etsy shop. However, in her blog post, she shows us many pictures of her finished jelly roll table runner, which looks gorgeous! The finished size is 12” x 72”.
5. Figure Eight Table Runner
Shannon Fraser created this beautiful table runner using the book Block by Block Book by Emily Dennis, and, wow, she did a fantastic job. She chose the “Figure Eight” block to make a one-of-a-kind table runner. Next, she picked these gorgeous gold and pink colors to make a striking design. Love it!
6. Quarter Circle Table Runner
Do you want to dip your toes into the wonderful world of curved edges? If so, this pattern is a fun choice. I love how the different layout of the quarter circle blocks creates an unusual movement on the table runner. Solid color fabrics like this example runner give it an excellent modern feel.
7. Sugarplum Table Runner
Here is a super fun quilt-along series by Faith Jones from Fresh Lemon Quilts. She published this project on the site called We All Sew, and gives beautiful instructions for every step of this modern table runner. There are four modern quilt blocks included in this design.
8. Rainbow Braid Runner
Here is a jelly roll-friendly pattern with a fun rainbow braid design. This pattern has instructions to create a 12” x 50” table runner. This design would look fantastic in any color combination, so have fun playing around with your color palette.
9. EZ Dresden Table Runner
This free modern table runner tutorial takes you step-by-step through the process of making this eclectic table runner. The designer, Mama Love Quilts, recommends you have a Dresden plate template to cut out your Dresden pieces. The finished quilted table runner will measure 15 ½” x 60”.
10. Geometric Table Runner
Wow! This is such a fabulous modern quilted table runner, don’t you think? It looks incredible in this black-and-white palette. This is an excellent free tutorial to create this eye-catching DIY table runner.
11. Waving Table Runner
Whoa, now THAT is a modern table runner! This quirky table runner pattern includes two sizes, as pictured above. The pattern includes instructions for fabric requirements and construction, and the designer includes her email for any questions you may have.
12. Modern Circles Table Runner
Here, a quilted table runner pattern mimics the planets with different-sized circles across the runner. The finished runner will measure 16” x 42”. This is a great beginner project for applique and quilting.
13. Modern Twirling Runner and Placemats
This pattern includes instructions for a 12” x 48” table runner and 12” x 16” placemats. The technique used to create these beautiful blocks is foundation paper piecing (FPP.) FPP is best for confident beginner or intermediate quilters, though the blocks in this pattern are simple.
14. Aztec Diamond Quilted Table Runner
Can we just take a moment and appreciate this beautiful colorway the designer chose? I would love to see this runner in warmer tones too. This pattern shows you how to make a 16 ½” x 46 ½”. The instructions are written for use along with a template called the Creative Grids 60° Triangle ruler, which you must purchase separately.
15. Blossom Modern Table Runner Pattern
Here is a gorgeous contemporary floral pattern that uses applique to make these impressive flowers. The finished runner measures 14” x 40”, but you could easily create more flowers to make a larger table runner. This is a great project to use up some of your scraps.
I hope you had as much fun as I did checking out these unbelievably beautiful modern quilted table runner patterns. I can’t wait to try at least a few of them! How about you? Which one do you think you’ll try to make first? Let me know in the comments below.
Happy Stitches!
