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Easter Table Runner

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Here it is, the final tutorial based on the decorations I shared in the post Spring Dreamin’. If you missed that or the previous two tutorials, a Rosette Wreath Tutorial, or Napkin Decoupaged Eggs, be sure to link back here.
 
When I’m out and about I SO love stopping into the thrift stores in my area as I never know what new surprise awaits me. I try to drive right by but there is something that draws me in and I often find myself unable to resist the pull. In those stores, there is currently an abundance of Easter decor available for my re-purposing pleasure (insert happy face here).  Here is a close-up of what I’ve done to make a rather plain table runner a bit more to my liking.
 Seasonal table runners and place mats are easy to find at thrift stores close to the different holidays. Below is a picture of my Easter table runner “before”, a sweet tapestry of bunnies in the garden. It was nice for a very small table but not quite long enough for my dining table.
 I decided to lengthen by adding some ruffles to the ends using thrift store fabric. Used fabric for sewing can be found in the form of old drapes, sheets, tablecloths, even clothing. I used some nice soft old sheets for this project in off white and striped, like ticking.  I KNOW . . . somebody slept on these sheets and they’re going on my dining table. I washed them . . . honest!

 Old crocheted doilies, lacy table runners, etc. are also readily available. I pick them up to have on hand whenever I find something that I think I can use in one of my projects.
 
 Here are my fabrics cut to size. The sheet fabric was cut 1-1/2 times the width of the runner to allow for gathering. The lace was a wee bit smaller. I tore my sheet fabric rather than cutting it because I was going for the frayed look. I kinda’ like the contrast of fancy lace with frayed cotton sheeting. 
 After sewing a double row of basting stitch to gather the fabric (this can be done by hand or machine for you non-sewers) I simply pinned it to the end of the table runner, adjusted the gathers and stitched it all in place.
 Here you can see that I topped it off with a long strip cut from the crocheted doily. I’m so happy with the colors and textures and I like the stripe with the plaid.  Adding ruffles really softened up this little runner and I think it is so much cuter.
 This project was quick, less than an hour from start to finish. It was very inexpensive with used and leftover fabrics and, as you can tell, I’m really quite pleased with the way it turned out. My table is almost ready for Easter . . . time to lay out the china.
I’m so glad that you stopped by to share in a little touch of Spring. New life is springing forth, old things becoming new, as we come into this most beautiful time of the year!
 
       Blessings to you,

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  10. I came over from the comment you left on my tablecloth scarf to find you play doctor with old linens also. I am glad there are people out there who see the potential to make something beautiful from what another might consider old rags.

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  15. The additions of the fabric and lace really added alot Patti. I love finding old lace and doilies at thrift stores! Thanks for sharing with SYC.
    hugs,
    Jann

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