I have a lot of trouble finding table cloths and runners that I find even vaguely attractive. They are generally ugly and expensive! My secret find has been these window panels from here. They are around $20 each, so it’s not quite as bad when someone (usually me!) knocks a glass of red wine all over it. This panel is one where you insert a curtain rod (no grommets or tabs) so it can be used as is. Now that’s as ‘no sew’ as it gets and it looks stunning in it’s new life as a backdrop to sparkling glassware, silver, flowers and candles.

For the second panel (with grommets), I’m cutting it into two 17″ wide table runners. Runners can be anywhere from 14″ to 20″ wide. I have an eight foot long dining table so I don’t usually find runners long enough, but by making two runners it gives me a couple of different options.

• Steps to create a ‘no sew’ table runner:   
• pre-wash the window panel, this will give the fabric glue the best chance of adhering.
• cut away the grommets from the top of the panel and discard.
• measure the width of your panel (between 14″ – 20″) from the hemmed side, allow one extra inch for a hem and cut.
• apply a line of washable fabric glue like this one, to the cut edge of the fabric and fold only once (the glue will prevent the edge from fraying).
• weigh down with books for 24 hours.
• avoid washing for a couple of weeks and then follow care instructions on glue bottle.
• *makes 2 to 3 runners.* (Clockwise) Drape the two runners side by side across the middle of your table, overlap the runners length-ways to accommodate an extra long table, place the runners across the table with a gap in the middle.