So you have guests coming over in a few hours and your table has seen better days. There are a few stains in the woodwork because your kids don’t use coasters, some scratches from the family cat and a few splatters of paint from your son’s science project. Instead of covering the whole thing with a tacky tablecloth, make this adorable, bright and fun DIY hankie table runner instead! It takes about 40 to 60 minutes and instantly brightens up a room and a tired table.
This project can also be almost cost-free if you have a stash of pretty handkerchiefs lying around. If not, you can pick these up at any thrift store, Michaels or Home Goods. This also makes a great gift for parents and grandparents.
What you’ll need:
- 3 – 5 different patterned handkerchiefs
- Needle and thread
- Scissors
Step 1: Lay hankies side by side
Lay your hankies side by side in a line on a table or floor. This will give you an idea of how long your table runner will be.
Step 2: Sew hankies together
Choose a thread color that closely matches the hems of your hankies. If you don’t have a perfect match, don’t worry, it won’t be very visible. Thread your needle and begin sewing the edges of one hankie into the other.
Don’t worry if you aren’t the best seamstress — since this is a table runner, you can easily hide flaws or mistakes with a centerpiece, flowers, candles or a serving tray. And the more you sew, the better you’ll get.
Repeat this process by sewing the edges of each hankie to the next until you have the length you desire. Note: If some of your hankies are different sizes, carefully measure and cut them so the edge is straight and even with the hankie beside it.
You want the hankies to be as close to the same size as possible. Once you are done sewing, cut off loose threads and fabric.
Step 3: Display!
If your hankies were in storage (like mine), do a quick iron on them to smooth them out. Then place on your table and enjoy.
A cute and easy way to spruce up your tables!
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