Today's Journal

Try a Table Runner!

During the Middle Ages, dinner parties could become quite racous!  The ruling class had feasts served in a large hall in the castle on long wooden tables covered with fine tablecloths.   Guests ate with their fingers and a knife, that each person generally carried with them.  Napkins were not common, so guests often used the tablecloth to wipe their fingers!  Thus, table runners were designed to protect the tablecloth.  They were placed down the center of the table on top of the tablecloth and removed after dinner.

Today, table runners provide lots of opportunity for creative tables.  They are used on top of tablecloths, instead of tablecloths and often as a beautiful accent piece kept on the table when no one is dining!  

The most common question that is asked is  "What is the proper length for a table runner?"  Well, it depends. Table runners are generally 15" - 22" wide.  They are available in standard lengths from 54" to 120".

On a rectangle table, a runner can run down the center the entire length of the table and overhang 10" - 15" on the ends.  Another option is to center the  runner on the table so that it sits from 12" - 15" from the ends.  You can then place a centerpiece on the table runner or simply use the table runner to soften the wood or glass table and add a splash of color.

A table runner can be used with placemats...or instead of placemats.  To use with placemats, simply use a shorter runner for the center of the table, where you can place platters and bowls of food. Use placemats around the table for place settings. You can also use a long table runner which will overhang on the short ends of the table, which is then used as a placemat for the host and hostess seats.  

You can use shorter runners...generally 59" long...as cross runners.  Cross runners, known as tete a tete's...literally "head to head" in French...or vis a vis...are placed across the width of the table, resulting in two people using the runner as placemats.  You can use as many cross runners as necessary to accomodate your guests.  

Runners and cross runners can also be used on round tables. Place cross runners in an X pattern on the top of your table to create placemats. Or use a table runner to soften the table and provide a splash of color. 

There are no strict rules.  There are lots of options. Let your "eye" be your guide. Explore our Table Runners selection!   

Tournesol offers fine table linens, distinctive dinnerware and gifts for the home from around the world.