How to use a Christmas table runner

As Christmas Day approaches, lots of households will be turning their attention to creating the perfect festive atmosphere, and a Christmas table runner is a simple yet impactful way to elevate your dining table.

These simple yet effective additions to the festive dining table are growing in popularity as we seek ways to blend tradition with modern flair.

For an effective use of Christmas table runners, you’ll need to have a theme or design in mind so our other articles will help you:

We also offer advice on table mats and even Christmas crackers!

Whether you’re hosting a grand Christmas dinner or a cosy family gathering, this Christmas.co.uk guide covers everything you need to know.

What is a Christmas table runner?

A Christmas table runner is a long, narrow piece of fabric or material placed down the centre of a dining table to add a decorative touch during the festive period.

Unlike a full tablecloth, it doesn’t cover the entire surface, instead highlighting the table’s natural beauty while offering a focal point for your Christmas décor.

Typically ranging from 30 to 40 cm wide and varying in length to suit your table, it’s a versatile piece that can be adorned with candles, wreaths or centrepieces to complete the look.

A runner is both functional and stylish, protecting your table while tying together your Christmas theme.

What is the history of the Christmas table runner?

The table runner’s origins stretch back to medieval Britain, where dining tables were a symbol of status.

Wealthy households draped their tables with linen cloths to flaunt their affluence, but as feasts grew messier, a narrower strip – the precursor to the table runner – emerged to protect the cloth beneath.

By the Victorian era, when Christmas became the elaborate celebration we know today, table runners evolved into decorative pieces, often embroidered with seasonal motifs like ivy or robins.

While not exclusively a Christmas item, its association with the festivities solidified as families sought ways to make their tables special for the occasion, a habit that’s stuck ever since.

Why do people use a Christmas table runner?

Lots of us love a Christmas table runner for its blend of practicality and aesthetics. Here’s why it’s a staple in UK homes:

Protection: When used with table mats, it shields your table from spills, scratches or heat marks from hot dishes – a must during hearty Christmas feasts featuring roast turkey and piping-hot gravy

Decoration: It adds a festive flourish, instantly transforming a plain table into a celebratory centrepiece without the fuss of a full tablecloth
Tradition: For many, it’s a nod to British dining customs, evoking nostalgia and warmth during family gatherings
Versatility: Easy to swap out, it lets you refresh your table’s look for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or even New Year’s without major redecorating.

Essentially, a table runner is a low-effort, high-impact décor choice, especially among those seeking to impress guests without overwhelming their budget or time.

What materials are used for table runners?

The materials for Christmas table runners vary, catering to different tastes and needs. They include:

Cotton: A popular choice for its softness, durability and ease of washing – ideal for busy households. Often seen in traditional prints like holly or stags
Polyester: Affordable and wrinkle-resistant, polyester blends (sometimes with metallic threads) bring a shimmer to festive tables
Linen: For a rustic or elegant vibe, linen offers a natural texture that’s increasingly sought after in eco-conscious UK homes
Velvet: Luxurious and on-trend, velvet runners in rich reds or greens add a plush, opulent feel
Vinyl: Practical for messy feasts, vinyl options are wipe-clean and growing in popularity for their bold, festive designs.

When it comes to adding a splash of sparkle, a table runner is a sound choice.

What styles will be popular this year?

There are lots of traditional designs for table runners such as tartan and the use of silver and gold creations, but this is a great chance to deliver an impressive table setting. The trends this year include:

Nordic neutrals: Think grey, white and taupe – a mix of grey and brown – with minimalist snowflake or tree patterns. This is a Scandi-inspired look gaining traction for its understated elegance
Bold velvet: Deep greens, burgundies, and even navy velvet runners will bring drama and luxury, perfect for Brits craving a statement piece
Eco-friendly rustic: Handmade linen or recycled cotton runners with natural dyes and earthy tones like sage or terracotta will appeal to the sustainability-minded
Metallic accents: Gold and silver threads woven into polyester or cotton blends will shine, reflecting a love for subtle decadence
Heritage prints: Traditional British motifs – think tartan, stags or holly – will make a comeback, blending nostalgia with modern twists like oversized patterns.

Some hosts will opt for sustainable materials with runners made from recycled or organic materials and personalised runners with embroidered names or festive messages will add a personal touch.

Also, while traditional reds and greens – along with the ever-popular gold and silver – remain popular, expect to see a rise in muted tones like sage green, blush pink and soft blues.

This simple addition is also a great opportunity to enjoy handcrafted and artisan runners as people look for unique handmade items.

Whether you lean towards rustic simplicity or festive opulence, there’s a style to suit every table.

Styling tips for your table runner

Here are some more tips to consider before buying a runner:

When deciding on a theme you could use a runner that complements your tableware and other decorations, or opt to mix and match textures and patterns to create a unique look
Consider the size of your table and select a runner that fits appropriately
Layer your runner with placemats or chargers for added depth
Use the runner as a base for your centrepiece, incorporating candles, foliage or ornaments.
Ensure that the runner, and all other decorations, do not interfere with the ability of your guests to enjoy their meal.

Where to buy quality table runners

This is a lovely Sophie Conran table runner available from John Lewis.

Here are three quality UK suppliers of table runners, based on their reputation for offering high-quality products, variety and customer satisfaction:

Dunelm: A well-known homeware retailer, Dunelm stocks a variety of table runners, including festive Christmas designs and everyday styles in materials like cotton and polyester
The White Company: Specialising in luxury home décor, The White Company offers elegant table runners, often in linen or cotton, with a focus on timeless, neutral designs perfect for Christmas or year-round use
John Lewis & Partners: A trusted UK retailer, John Lewis offers a curated selection of high-quality table runners, from classic cotton designs to seasonal patterns like mistletoe or strawberry prints.

We’ve also found that Amazon has a great collection of festive table runners.