Length of a Dining Room Table Runner

Dining room table runners ad a decorative appeal to the overall look and function of the room, and it is important to choose the correct length of runner for an appealing visual balance. Does this Spark an idea?

Table Size

Determine the size of your dining room table. Measure the table's length and width. These measurements are used to determine the length of the runner(s).

Table Runner Length

The runner should be about one-third the width of the table, but if you are using multiple runners, they should measure about one-fourth the width of the table. To determine the length of the runner, add 12 inches to the table length. This measurement is your runner length.

Placement

Place the runner in the center of the table. It should hang 6 inches past the table on either end. If you are using multiple runners, allow 1 to 2 feet of space between them.

Using a Short Runner

Short runners are sometimes used to highlight table displays. According to Overstock.com, the length of a short runner should be one-third the length of the table and placed evenly in the center.

Round Tables

Runners do not have to be used on rectangular tables alone. They create just as much visual appeal on round tables as rectangular tables. The same measurement rules apply, and the runner should be about one-third the width and hang 6 inches over the side.