DIY Table Runner Ideas for Christmas, Thanksgiving: Top Picks
Get crafty this season with a DIY table runner! Learn simple steps, discover Amazon kits, and explore creative styling tips for your holiday table.
DIY Table Runner for Holidays: Easy Projects & Top Picks to Brighten Your Table
The holidays are the perfect time to add warmth and charm to your home, and a DIY table runner is a simple yet stunning way to do just that. Whether you're hosting Christmas dinner or a New Year's brunch, a handmade runner instantly makes your table feel special.
In this guide, you'll find:
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What a DIY table runner is
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Easy steps to make one yourself
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Top 6 Amazon kits and holiday runners
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Tips to decorate and style your table
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Links to helpful blogs and decor ideas
Let’s make your holiday table Pinterest-worthy—without the stress!
What Is a DIY Table Runner?
A DIY table runner is a handmade fabric strip placed down the center of a dining table. Unlike full tablecloths, runners let the beauty of your table shine while adding seasonal flair.

You can:
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Sew one from fabric scraps
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Paint or stencil on burlap or kraft paper
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Embroider or knit festive patterns
It’s fun, beginner-friendly, and a great way to involve the whole family during the holidays.
Materials You’ll Need
You don’t need a ton of fancy tools. Here’s a simple list to get started:
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Fabric (cotton, linen, burlap, or seasonal prints)
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Scissors or rotary cutter
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Sewing machine (or needle and thread)
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Ribbons, lace, or fabric glue (for no-sew styles)
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Measuring tape or ruler
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Fabric markers or stencils (for painting)
💡 Quick Tip:
Always iron your fabric before cutting—it gives cleaner edges and a polished final look!
Top 6 DIY Table Runner Kits and Holiday Runners (Amazon Picks)
If you prefer a guided approach or need something fast, these Amazon products are excellent choices—great reviews, affordable, and beginner-friendly.
1. DIY Embroidery Kit – Botanical Leaves Runner
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Great for hand embroidery lovers
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Includes fabric, thread, pattern & hoop
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Price: ~$66.99
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🌟 Perfect for fall and winter table settings
This embroidery kit turns a plain runner into a botanical masterpiece. Easy instructions make it beginner friendly.
2. Knit Table Runner DIY Kit by Ganxxet
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Includes yarn, pattern, and needles
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Price: ~$29.95
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Cozy wool blend for winter vibes
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Great gift for knitters
A fun weekend project that gives off cabin vibes when finished. Matches great with rustic wood tables!
3. DIY Cross Stitch Kit – Christmas Design
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Red-themed holiday runner
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Price: ~$71.99
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Comes with chart, threads, and cloth
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Great for intermediate crafters
Create a holiday heirloom with a cross-stitched runner featuring stars, snowflakes, or trees.
4. Kraft Paper Table Runner Roll
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30 feet long – decorate with markers or stencils
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Price: ~$11.40
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Ideal for kids' crafts or party tables
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Recyclable & fun!
Let kids draw their own holiday scenes or write names for personalized place settings.
5. Holiday Metallic Plaid Table Runner
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Pre-made, DIY-optional (add tassels or beads!)
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Price: ~$9.49
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Shiny red and gold pattern
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Budget-friendly and stylish
Looks amazing paired with gold napkin rings or candle holders.
6. Lenox Bayberry Tree Runner
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Embroidered holiday trees with a luxe finish
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Price: ~$20.93
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Elegant and ready-to-use
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High-rated gift idea
Don’t want to sew? This is a classy, ready-made alternative that still feels handcrafted.
Styling Ideas for Your Holiday DIY Runner
Once your runner is ready, it's time to dress up your table! Here’s how to bring everything together.
Match with:
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Gold or silver candle holders
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Mini pinecone centerpieces
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Holiday-themed charger plates
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White or green napkins with festive rings
Use It With:
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A neutral tablecloth as a base
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Matching or contrasting placemats
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Personalized name cards for guests
💡 Styling Tip:
Use 3 centerpieces spaced evenly odd numbers are more eye-pleasing!
Bonus: Where to Get Supplies
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Check out Amazon for holiday craft kits and fabrics
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Visit lamppostshop.com for holiday décor, rustic table runners, and more
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Michaels or JoAnn Fabrics for seasonal patterns and trims
💬 Want more holiday runner inspiration? See our Elegant Farmhouse Table Runner Review on the blog!
Pro Tips Before You Start Crafting
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Use washable fabric markers to sketch your design before cutting
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Add heat-bond backing if you don’t want to sew
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Cut mitered corners for a more professional look
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Use double-fold tape for no-sew edges
There’s something magical about crafting your own holiday decorations—and a DIY table runner is one of the easiest, most satisfying projects out there. It adds a handmade touch, brings the family together, and makes your table truly shine.
Whether you’re using a full embroidery kit, painting on kraft paper, or creating something from scratch, your holiday setup will feel extra special this year. Don’t forget to check out the Amazon picks and our favorite styles from lamppostshop.com to complete your holiday table look.