Table Runner Size Guide

This table runner size guide covers available widths (12 to 15 inches), lengths (55 to 118 inches), and overhang recommendations for 4, 6, and 8 foot tables. Custom lengths are available on request.

Available Table Runner Sizes

Our table runners come in widths of 12, 13, 14, and 15 inches. The width depends on the fabric and style — each design is cut at one fixed width, so a given runner style is available in only one width option. Lengths range from 55 to 118 inches across eight sizes: 55, 63, 71, 78, 86, 94, 108, and 118 inches. If your table needs a length between these options, contact us for a custom cut.

How to Measure Your Table for a Runner

Step 1: Measure table length

Measure the tabletop from one short end to the other. This is the number you use to choose runner length. For round tables, measure the diameter instead.

Step 2: Decide overhang

Decide how much fabric you want hanging past each end of the table. A standard overhang is 6 to 12 inches per side. Shorter overhangs (4-6 in) suit everyday dining; longer overhangs (10-15 in) suit formal occasions.

Step 3: Calculate runner length

Add your table length plus two times the overhang. For example, a 72-inch table with an 8-inch overhang on each side needs a runner that is at least 88 inches long (72 + 8 + 8 = 88). Pick the closest available length from our options.

Step 4: Check runner width against table width

Subtract the runner width from your table width to see how much bare tabletop shows on each side. For a 42-inch-wide table with a 13-inch runner, each side shows 14.5 inches of bare table. Aim for at least 10 inches of visible tabletop on each side so place settings have room.

Table Runner Length by Table Size

Use the chart below to match your table length with the right runner size. The recommended overhang assumes a balanced 6 to 9 inch drop on each end.

If your table falls between two sizes, choose the longer runner for more overhang or the shorter one for a cleaner, contained look. For tables longer than 108 inches, contact us for a custom runner length.

How Wide Should a Table Runner Be?

Runner width controls how much of the tabletop center is covered. A 12-inch runner leaves more bare table visible on each side, which suits narrow tables and minimalist settings. A 14 or 15-inch runner covers more of the center, which works on wider tables where you want a fuller centerpiece strip. The runner should always leave at least 10 inches of bare tabletop on each side for plates and glassware.

Table Runner on Round Tables

A table runner can be used on a round table by placing it across the center diameter. Measure the diameter of the tabletop, then add 6 to 12 inches of overhang on each end. For a 48-inch round table, a 63-inch runner gives about 7.5 inches of overhang per side. For a 60-inch round table, an 78-inch runner gives 9 inches per side. The runner width recommendation stays the same as for rectangular tables — 12 to 15 inches depending on how much bare table you want visible.

Overhang Guide: Everyday vs Formal

For everyday use, a shorter overhang keeps the runner from interfering with chairs or laps when people sit down. For formal dinners and events, a longer overhang adds visual presence and frames the table ends.

FAQ

How long should a table runner be for a 6 foot table?

A 6 foot table is 72 inches long. With a standard 7-inch overhang on each end, the ideal runner length is 86 inches. This is one of our standard sizes. If you prefer a shorter overhang of 4 to 5 inches, an 78-inch runner works. For a formal look with 10 inches of overhang per side, choose a 94-inch runner.

How long should a table runner be for an 8 foot table?

An 8 foot table is 96 inches long. With a 6-inch overhang on each end, the ideal runner length is 108 inches. This is one of our standard sizes. For a shorter overhang of about 1 inch per side, a 94-inch runner sits almost flush with the table edges. For a formal 11-inch overhang per side, a 118-inch runner provides full coverage.

What width table runner do I need?

Our runners come in 12, 13, 14, and 15 inch widths. For a standard 36 to 42-inch-wide dining table, a 13-inch runner leaves 11.5 to 14.5 inches of bare table on each side, which gives enough room for plates and glassware. For narrow tables under 36 inches wide, a 12-inch runner works best. For wide tables over 48 inches, choose a 14 or 15-inch runner so the center strip does not look too narrow.

Should a table runner hang over the edge of the table?

Yes, in most cases. A table runner looks best with 6 to 12 inches of overhang on each end. This makes the runner visible past the table edge and frames the table. A runner that sits entirely on the tabletop with no overhang can look like a placemat. If you prefer no overhang — for example, on a kitchen island where people sit on both sides — choose a runner that matches your table length exactly.

Can I use a table runner on a round table?

Yes. Place the runner across the center of the round table, following the diameter. For a 48-inch round table, a 63-inch runner gives about 7.5 inches of overhang on each end. For a 60-inch round table, a 78-inch runner gives 9 inches per side. The runner width stays the same as on rectangular tables — 12 to 15 inches depending on your table width and how much bare surface you want visible.

Can I use a table runner without a tablecloth?

Yes. A runner works directly on a bare wood, glass, or stone tabletop. Many kitchens and casual dining spaces use a runner alone without any tablecloth underneath. On bare wood, a cotton or linen-blend runner also provides light surface protection from plates and serving dishes. Choose a runner width that leaves at least 10 inches of bare table visible on each side for place settings.

What if my table is between two runner sizes?

Choose the longer runner for more overhang, or the shorter one for a cleaner look. For example, if your table is 66 inches long and the nearest sizes are 63 and 71 inches, the 71-inch runner gives 2.5 inches of overhang per side, while the 63-inch runner would be 1.5 inches short on each end. In this case, the longer option usually looks better. If neither size works well, contact us for a custom length.

Do you offer custom table runner lengths?

Yes. If your table length does not match our standard sizes (55, 63, 71, 78, 86, 94, 108, or 118 inches), contact us with your table measurement and preferred overhang. We can cut a custom length to fit. Custom runner widths are not available — each style is cut at one fixed width based on the fabric.