Crafting A Wedding Table Runner: A Step-By-Step Guide

Table runners are a great way to make your wedding tables stand out and can be a cost-effective way to elevate your wedding decor. They can be made from a variety of materials, including flowers, paper, fabric, and natural elements like moss and leaves. With a few simple steps, you can create a DIY table runner that adds a personal touch to your wedding reception and saves you money. In this article, we will explore different table runner ideas and provide a step-by-step guide to making your own, so get ready to roll up your sleeves and get creative!

DIY Floral Table Runner

A floral table runner is a great way to add a wow factor to your wedding decor. It is a simple yet stunning way to make your wedding tables stand out and can be used at both the ceremony and reception. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a DIY floral table runner:

Firstly, you will need to gather your supplies. For this tutorial, you will need an 18” foam raquettes (available in different sizes), 6-8 stems each of leather leaf, gunni eucalyptus, baby blue eucalyptus, 5 burgundy snapdragons, 8 hypnosis carnations, and sprays of wax flower.

To start creating the table runner, always begin with greenery. For this arrangement, use longer pieces of greenery on the ends, such as leather leaf, keeping the width to 4 or 5 inches. Break down the stems to fill in the middle sections of the foam, using different lengths and sizes to create depth.

Next, move on to a different type of greenery called salal, which has a different shade and leaf structure. Place the salal in a similar fashion as the leather leaf, filling in until it is evenly dispersed. Then, layer in the gunni eucalyptus, followed by the baby blue eucalyptus, which adds length and a variety of colour.

Now it is time to add the focal flowers, such as protea and roses. As these are large and bulky, it is best to use fewer of them. Place them first to help focus the design and make sure they are front and centre. Work in groups of three, placing them evenly from one end to the other at varying stem lengths.

Then, add in the snapdragons, treating them similarly to the longer pieces of greenery and using them to create length and reinforce the shape of the arrangement.

Begin placing the spray flowers, such as alstroemeria, which provide colour and longevity. You can use the stem as is or break it down into smaller groupings.

Next, add in the accent flowers, such as hypnosis carnations, working in groups of three and varying the stem lengths.

Finally, work in the filler flowers, such as wax flower, to fill in any spots that seem bare or to break up solid masses of greenery or flowers.

And there you have it! A beautiful, rectangular table runner-style floral arrangement, perfect for a head table or dessert display at your wedding.

DIY Hessian Cloth Table Runner

Hessian cloth, also known as burlap, is a perfect choice for a DIY wedding table runner, especially if you're going for a rustic or vintage theme. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating your own Hessian cloth table runner:

Materials:

• Hessian or burlap cloth
• Paint or stamps with your chosen colour of ink
• Fabric scissors
• Measuring tape
• Table for sizing

Process:

• Purchase your Hessian or burlap cloth. You can usually find this at fabric stores or online. The amount you need will depend on the size of your tables and how many tables you have.
• Measure and cut the cloth to the preferred size of your table runner, ensuring you allow for enough length so that the runner hangs gracefully down the sides of the tables.
• Paint or stamp the table number at each end of the cloth. Get creative here—you could also add the wedding date, a romantic message, or the couple's initials.
• Place your finished table runner on your wedding tables, and you're done!

If you want to add more texture or colour, consider pairing the Hessian cloth with lace or ribbons. You could also add some greenery or flowers on top of the runner for a more natural, organic look.

DIY Paper Rosette Table Runner

A paper rosette table runner is a fun and simple way to add a unique, textural accent to your wedding tables. This DIY project allows you to create a 3D geometrical table runner in a multitude of bright colours. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make your own:

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need:

• 3-4 sheets of scrapbooking paper (larger paper that is 12" x 12" works best)
• 1 roll of matte contact paper
• Pom-pom trim (or any other type of trim you prefer)
• A glue gun and glue sticks
• A steel-edge ruler and a box cutter razor

Once you have your materials, follow these steps:

• Trim the edges of your scrapbooking paper to the desired size using the steel-edge ruler and box cutter razor.
• Match up the right sides of the paper and tape the backside to create a table runner shape.
• Measure and cut the amount of contact paper you need to cover the paper.
• Place your paper runner on a table surface.
• Working with contact paper can be tricky, so it's best to have a helper. Have your helper hold onto the backing of the contact paper while you hold onto the clear layer. Pull your ends simultaneously to remove the backing.
• Starting at one end, place the contact paper onto the paper, gradually covering the entire surface. Turn over the runner and repeat on the other side.
• Use your ruler and razor to trim the contact paper edges for a clean finish.
• On the backside edge of the runner, use your glue gun to attach the pom-pom trim. Trim the ends of the pom-poms, and your runner is complete!

This project is a fun and easy way to add a personal touch to your wedding tables, and the possibilities for customisation are endless. Enjoy crafting your one-of-a-kind table runner!

Choosing the right materials

When it comes to choosing the right materials for your wedding table runner, there are endless options to consider. From rustic and vintage to modern and elegant, the type of material you choose will depend on the overall style and aesthetic you wish to achieve. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your materials:

• Fabric Choice: Popular fabric choices for table runners include linen, burlap, lace, hessian cloth, and silk. Linen and burlap offer a rustic or vintage charm, while silk adds elegance and luxury. Consider the colour and texture of the fabric to complement your wedding theme. Neutral hues like tan, cream, and pastel colours are versatile and can be paired with colourful or whimsical arrangements.
• Greenery and Florals: Fresh greenery and flowers can add a romantic and organic touch to your table setting. Eucalyptus, fern, baby's breath, and roses are popular choices for creating a lush and fragrant garland or table runner. If you're looking for something more unique, consider using fruit or vegetables, or local textiles for a destination wedding.
• Texture and Accents: To create a textural accent, consider incorporating materials like macramé, doilies, or paper rosettes. These elements add depth and interest to your table setting. You can also play with different textures within your chosen fabric, such as gauzy or textured linen.
• Personalisation: Adding a personal touch to your table runner can make your wedding even more special. Consider monogramming or hand-painting the couple's initials on the runner. You can also use table runners as a unique way to display much-loved photos, vintage postcards, or cherished love notes.
• Durability and Maintenance: When choosing your materials, consider the durability and maintenance required. Fresh flowers and greenery may require extra care to prevent wilting, so it's essential to keep them hydrated. Some materials, like fabric table runners, can be reused for home decor after the wedding, so choose something that aligns with your long-term preferences.
• Cost: The cost of materials can vary, so it's important to set a budget and choose accordingly. Simple options like a black and white stripe table runner or a strip of moss can be affordable and still make a statement.

Remember, your table runner is a great way to showcase your personality and style as a couple. Don't be afraid to mix and match, play with different textures, and incorporate unique elements that reflect your theme.

Adding decorations

Flowers and Greenery

Create a lush and fragrant floral table runner by securing cut flowers or greenery to a sturdy netting. You can use a variety of flowers and foliage such as baby's breath, roses, eucalyptus, dahlias, ivy, and ferns. Build up the volume of flowers or greenery until you achieve the desired effect, and gently lay the runner along the centre of your tables. This adds a romantic and elegant touch to your wedding tables.

Fabric and Lace

Pair your tableware with flowing fabric or linen table runners tied with lace, ribbon, or twine. Opt for neutral hues like tan, cream, or pale pink, or go bold with a vibrant colour. Fabric table runners with pretty lace or ribbon detailing are perfect for a rustic or chic wedding, and can also be reused as home decor after the big day.

Paper Crafts

For a unique and playful look, consider a paper flower table runner made from the pages of a book and adorned with tissue paper flowers. Alternatively, create a literary table runner by gluing together pages from vintage novels to create a rustic, storybook-inspired look. For a more modern twist, try a chalkboard table runner where you can write personalised messages, the menu, or table numbers.

Macrame

Macrame table runners give your wedding reception a bohemian feel. Complement the macrame with wildly arranged florals and greenery, and an eclectic mix of vases and tableware. This adds a relaxed yet impressive touch to your tables.

Candles and Lights

Add some candlelit romance to your tables with tall candlesticks or votive candles. For a magical touch, include string lights by pairing gauzy neutral linen with greenery, and then adding battery-operated string lights for a seamless, cord-free glow.

Frequently asked questions