How to Use Table Runners and Placemats 

Are you curious about how to use table runners and placemats to enhance your dining table's style? You are at the right place to learn everything about these key parts of table design and function. Discover how these essential elements can transform your dining experience to make every meal memorable. 

The Table Runner Renaissance

Why is it important to learn how to use table runners? Once, table runners only protected your table from spills and damage until Kim Seybert pioneered designs that create an elegant ambiance for everyday dining and refined tablescapes. Whether it is a lavish dinner party or a laid-back brunch, it is a new trend to incorporate table runners as a focal point of table décor. Uniting function with fashion, your table runners are now a timeless aspect of any dining experience.

Perfect Proportions 

We have a few best-kept secrets on how to use table runners to create a visually stunning display. Start with measuring your table and considering its shape. Traditionally, your table runner drapes over each end by 6 to 12 inches. It is also fashionable to align the runner without draping the edges over the table for a more contemporary look. Especially for round tables, you might consider this technique by centering square or circle runners like the Hydrangea Table Runner.

Materials and Styles

The selection of materials for table runners should account for the occasion and the overall decor scheme. For a breezy, casual appeal at everyday meals, you might incorporate crisp and airy materials like cotton and linen. If it is an elevated gathering, you can punctuate the evening soiree with the reflective sheen of silk or satin. For outdoor settings, you might benefit from the natural textures of bamboo, jute, or rattan. When choosing a style, you might think about how aspects set the mood, such as bold, graphic prints for energizing parties or soft, muted tones for calm and soothing evenings.

The Basics on Placemats

In the same sense as table runners, you can not miss that placemats are excellent solutions for protecting more of your tablecloth. Additionally, each placemat frames a space for individual guests and the setting. While their primary role might be functional, Kim Seybert is always full of ideas for adding additional interest dynamic arrangements for your table.

The Material Facts for Placemats

While choosing your placemant, there are a few considerations such as practicality and aesthetic appeal. Cotton and linen placemats are versatile for any meal and easy to wash. With durability and ease of cleaning, our vinyl placemats and other synthetic materials are ideal for outdoor entertaining. Everyone loves textured materials like woven bamboo or braided jute for extra accented decor.

Keep It Coordinated

You can achieve a table setting that feels cohesive by matching your placemat choices with the tones and textures of your table runners and dinnerware. One method is mixing materials and colors for contrast to create a layered, eclectic look. It not only draws the eye but also personalizes the dining experience.

Practical Tips for Table Runners and Placemats

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use table runners and placemats for your table decor:

1. Center the Runner

Begin by evenly placing the runner down the center of the table. The runner should complement the length of your table and aesthetic.

2. Arrange the Placemat

Next, you should aim for spacing the placemats between 24 and 30 inches apart from the center of the table and aligned with the sides of the table runner. The placemats can sit on the table runner for a layered effect or be adjacent to the table runner.

3. Create Balance

Observe the full display of your table runner, placemats, and dinnerware. There should be space for all the table elements. If not, your go-to fix is adjusting the placement to avoid overcrowding the setting.

4. Add Layering Techniques

You can always add depth and interest to your table settings with layers. One classic method is using a table runner and placemats that contrast in texture or color to make each element pop more. Another idea is to consider using two runners placed in an X-shape across the table. This technique works well on square or round tables for creating unique sections catering to each of your guests. It is a delightful approach in formal settings to showcase the elegance of your table linens.

Signature Table Runners and Placemat Styles

Seasonal Table Decor

• Florescent Table Runners for Spring
  Spring into the season with table runners and placemats that bloom like the Dahlia Collection. Adorned with vibrant floral patterns, it is prime time to feature pastel hues, watercolors, and floral prints to reflect the delight of outdoor dining.

• Botanical Placemats for Summer
  As seen in the Paridiso Collection, you can capture the essence of beachside dining by mixing hand-beaded placemats and table runners with lush tropical accents and golden metallics.

• Autumnal Themed Beading
  Use table runners with intricate beading in fall colors—deep reds, warm oranges, and golden yellows. These table runners can be paired with placemats in solid, earthy tones to balance the detailed beading and add a touch of luxury to harvest dinners.

• Wintery Metallics
  Winter settings shine with metallic table runners for a festive sparkle. Try coordinating placemats in luxurious velvet or satin to reflect the light beautifully and create a warm, inviting ambiance for holiday feasts.

 Formal and Casual Setting Tips

• Table Runners and Placemats for Evening Affairs
  While deciding how to use table runners and placemats for formal settings, it is the perfect moment to incorporate high-quality materials as seen in our collaboration with Baccarat or the newly launched Lumiere Placemat. With crystallized patterns to complement your finest dinnerware, you can create a constellation of polished looks.

• Table Runners and Placemats for Everyday Dining
  In casual settings, embrace more relaxed materials like cotton or linen. Of course, you do not need to shy away from bold colors or eclectic patterns either. Mix and match different styles for a laid-back, personalized table that invites guests to relax and enjoy the meal.

Care and Maintenance Tips

It is crucial to regularly wash your fabrics, runners, and placemats to maintain their appearance over time. While handling wear and tear, act fast to save the fabric from most stains. Kim Seybert also offers video tutorials and specialized instructions for each fabric and signature product. As a rule, you should also swap out your linens every one to two weeks for a pristine dining space.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use a table runner and placemats together?

Absolutely! When thoughtfully paired, these two design elements complement each other and enhance the function and aesthetics of the table. Our offerings present several stylings for these types of tablescapes, and we also offer expert insights on request.

What is the purpose of a table runner?

It serves as a decorative centerpiece and a practical protector of the dining surface, framing your table settings and accentuating your home decor.