Have you ever wished you could change your home decor with just a flip? Imagine having a bright, summery look for your kitchen table one day and a cozy, early-fall vibe the next. It sounds like magic, but it’s actually a simple sewing project that anyone can do!
Welcome to the wonderful world of the reversible table runner. This project is one of my absolute favorites because it gives you two beautiful designs in one. It’s the perfect way to use up fabric scraps or those pretty jelly roll strips you’ve been saving.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to make a reversible table runner using a super easy and fun technique called “stitch and flip.” You don’t need to be an expert quilter. If you can sew a straight line, you can make this. Let’s get started and create something beautiful for your home.
What You’ll Need for Your DIY Table Runner
Before we start sewing, let’s gather our supplies. The best part about this project is that you don’t need much. You can use pre-cut jelly roll strips, fat quarters, or even leftover scraps from other projects. This is a fantastic way to turn small pieces of fabric into a stunning centerpiece.
Here is a quick list of the materials and tools you will need.
| Item | Details and Tips |
|---|---|
| Fabric Strips | You’ll need enough for two sides. Jelly rolls (2.5-inch strips) work perfectly. Using scraps is also a great option! |
| Batting | A thin piece of cotton batting is best. Cut it a little larger than the final size you want your runner to be. |
| Binding Fabric | You’ll need about 1/4 yard. Choose a color that looks good with the fabrics on both sides of your runner. |
| Thread | A neutral color like gray, cream, or white is a good choice so it blends in with everything. |
| Basic Sewing Tools | Sewing machine, rotary cutter, cutting mat, ruler, iron, and pins. A walking foot for your machine is helpful but not required. |
A little secret from my sewing room is to starch your batting before you begin. Just spray it with starch and press it with a hot iron until it’s dry. This makes the batting a bit stiffer and helps the fabric stick to it, which makes the whole process much smoother.
Getting Your Fabric Ready: A Few Simple Cuts
Preparation is quick and easy for this project. The main goal is to get your batting and fabric strips ready for the “quilt as you go” method we’ll be using.
First, decide on the size of your table runner. A common size is around 14 inches wide and 30 to 40 inches long. Cut your piece of batting about one inch wider and longer than your desired final size. This extra space gives you plenty of room to trim later for perfectly straight edges.
Next, cut your fabric strips. They should all be the same width (2.5 inches is standard for jelly rolls), but the length is most important here. Cut your strips so they are one inch longer than the width of your batting. For example, if your batting is 15 inches wide, you will cut your fabric strips to be 16 inches long.
How to Make a Reversible Table Runner: The Fun Part!
This is where the magic happens! We are going to build both sides of the table runner at the same time. This stitch and flip method also quilts the project as you sew, saving you a ton of time.
Step 1: Start in the Middle
To make sure everything stays even, we will start sewing in the center of the batting. Lightly fold your batting in half lengthwise and press it with your finger to create a faint crease down the middle.
Now, pick one fabric strip for the center of each side of your runner. Place the first strip on the crease, right side facing up. Pin it in the middle to hold it. Flip the entire piece of batting over. Place your second center strip on the other side, also right side up, lining it up with the first one. Pin it in place.
Take it to your sewing machine and sew a straight line about a quarter-inch from each long edge of the center strips. This will anchor them to the batting.
Step 2: The Magic of “Stitch and Flip”
Now we’ll start building outwards. Pick another strip of fabric for your first side. Lay it directly on top of your center strip with the right sides of the fabric facing each other.
You can place this new strip at a slight angle to give your runner a fun, “wonky” look. It’s supposed to be playful, so don’t worry about perfection! Sew along the edge where the two strips overlap with a quarter-inch seam.
Next, “flip” the new strip open, so its right side is now facing up. Press it flat with your iron. Just like that, you have added a new piece and quilted it at the same time!
Step 3: Build Out, Side to Side
Repeat the stitch and flip process on the other side of your center strip. Once you have added one strip to the left and one to the right of your center strip, it’s time to work on the other side of your double-sided table runner.
Flip the whole project over. Now, add two fabric strips to this side using the exact same stitch and flip method.
You will continue this pattern—sewing two strips on one side, flipping the project over, and sewing two strips on the other—until you have completely covered the batting from end to end.
Finishing Your Beautiful Table Runner
Your runner is almost done! It might look a little messy around the edges, but these final steps will turn it into a beautiful, finished piece.
Trimming for a Perfect Finish
This is the most satisfying step! Lay your quilted runner on your cutting mat. Using a long ruler and a rotary cutter, trim off the excess fabric and batting along all four sides. This is where your messy creation suddenly becomes a clean, professional-looking rectangle. Take your time to make your corners square and your edges perfectly straight.
Adding the Binding
The final step is to add binding around the edges. Binding is a strip of fabric that neatly covers the raw edges of your project. You can use a traditional quilt binding method for this. Since your table runner is thin, cutting your binding strips two inches wide should work perfectly. Remember to choose a fabric that complements both sides of your runner.
Once the binding is sewn on, your project is complete!
Ideas for Your Reversible Table Runner
The possibilities for this project are truly endless. You can mix and match themes for holidays, seasons, or just everyday decor. Here are a few fun ideas to get you started.
| Side A Theme | Side B Theme |
|---|---|
| Christmas (Reds & Greens) | Winter (Blues & Silvers) |
| Spring (Pastels & Florals) | Easter (Pinks, Yellows & Bunnies) |
| Summer (Brights & Watermelons) | Fourth of July (Red, White & Blue) |
| Fall (Oranges, Browns & Leaves) | Halloween (Orange, Black & Spiders) |
FAQs About Making a Table Runner
How to make a reversible table runner?
You sew fabric strips onto batting. Start in the middle of your runner. Place a new strip on top, then sew. Flip the new strip open and press it. You will do this for both sides.
Can you make your own table runner?
Yes, you can! Making a table runner is very easy. It is a perfect project for beginners. You can make one in just a few hours.
What can be used instead of a table runner?
You can use placemats instead. A long, decorative scarf can also work. Some people use a row of candles. You could also use a full tablecloth.
What kind of batting is used for table runners?
A thin cotton batting works best. It is not too thick or puffy. This helps your table runner lie flat. It is also very easy to sew with.
How does a table runner work?
A table runner is for decoration. It lies down the center of your table. It adds color and style to a room. It can also help protect your table.
A Fun Project You’ll Love to Make and Use
See how simple that was? You’ve just learned how to make a reversible table runner that is full of personality. This project is low-stress, incredibly fun, and a great way to be creative without pressure. They make wonderful gifts and are always a big hit at craft fairs.
Now you have a beautiful, handmade piece that brings two different styles to your home. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be amazed at what you can create!
What two seasons or holidays will you pair on your table runner? I would love to hear your creative ideas in the comments below