DIY Thanksgiving Burlap Table Runner
Learn how to make this rustic table runner for your Thanksgiving spread.
Photo: Kendra Darr
Burlap makes a festive table runner for fall; its rustic nature is reminiscent of harvest leaves and the earthiness of autumn. Burlap is also simple to turn into a table runner because, when cut properly, it doesn't shed or require sewing or gluing.
What You'll Need
- Burlap (at least 2 yards)
- Scissors
- Tape measure
- Fabric paint
- Stencil brush
- Stencil (optional)
Instructions
Start with at least 2 yards of burlap, depending on the length of your table. Determine how wide you want the runner to be. I decided on 12 inches, as it's the ideal width for my table and allows me to get four runners out of the fabric.
Lay the burlap on a large flat surface and measure out the width of your runner. Find a vertical thread and snip it with a pair of scissors. Pull that single thread out of the burlap along the entire length, this will create a void to guide your cutting.
Photo: Kendra Darr
I repeated these steps on the other sides as well to make sure it was straight on all ends.
Next, place cardboard under the end you'll be painting. Burlap naturally has little holes between the threads, so the cardboard is important. Otherwise you'll have a painted table when the project is completed.
I created my own stencil using a special machine. But you can purchase a stencil from your craft store, create your own stencil, or freehand a design.
Note: You can make your own stencil without a machine. Simply print out your desired design onto cardstock and use a utility knife to cut it out.
Once the stencil is situated, use fabric paint and a foam or stencil brush to fill in the stencil.
DIY Trick
No sliding and smudging stencils here! Use a spray adhesive (make sure the tack level is low so it can be removed) to adhere the stencil to your fabric.
Photo: Kendra Darr
It will take a couple of hours for the paint to dry and then the runner can be moved. However, remove the stencil after about 30 minutes. Remove the stencil before the paint fully dries to avoid peeling up the paint.
Once the paint is completely dry, the table runner is ready to use!
