For a while there, I was really into place mats. I still like the look of them, but they just don't get very clean. It also seems kind of silly to buy enough place mats to fill the table up when there are only two of us eating at it. Enter: the table runner. It's proven to be a much better option for us, and I love the look of it. For Autumn, I thought I'd try my hand at a burlap runner and thought I'd share it with you, too. This is another easy project that shouldn't take more than an hour or two.
You will need:
-several yards of burlap (depending on the length of your table)
-3/4 yard off-white fabric (I chose one with a linen look)
Start by measuring the length of your table and determining how large you'd like for your runner to be. When you have decided on the dimensions, lay the burlap out flat on the floor and note where you need to cut. Slowly and carefully pull one thread all the way out to make your cutting line clear. This will help you to cut it in a straight line.
I ended up pulling out about 5 strands on both of the lengthwise edges so that both sides would have a frayed look.
Cut down the middle of the space.
Cut two 42 x 12 inch strips from your white fabric. Fold over one long edge and both short edges 1/4 inch, press, and repeat with opposite sides.
With right sides together, pin the long, unhemmed side of one of your white pieces to the bottom, short edge of your runner. The easiest way I found to do this was to pin the edges first and then make pleats from the outer edges to the middle.
My pleats were 2 inches wide and over lapped by one inch. This created four pleats on each side of the runner.
Sew the pieces together with 1/4 inch seam allowance. Press the pleats down, and sew 1/4 inch seam along the top edge. Repeat with the other edge.
Want a more sophisticated runner? No problem! Fold the long edges of the runner over a 1/2 inch, press, fold another 1/2 inch, and press again. Stitch along the hem with a 3/8 inch seam. Shorten the ruffle to your desired length.
And for your treat... The Ben Franklin in Chariton, IA has graciously agreed to give a 20% discount on burlap purchases of 1/2 yard or more to life {illustrated} readers (in store only)! The discount will run 09.17-09.25.2012. Hurry in to get your burlap!
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How festive for the autumn season, thank you for the inspiration !
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you liked it!
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