Quilted table runners, seem to be rivaling my love for quilted pillows at the rate I’m making them – ha! But when the Refracted Star quilted table runner is this stunning it’s hard to resist!
Here’re a few reasons why quilted table runners are a go-to sewing project:
They’re relatively quick to make. Compared to a full-on quilt, table runners feel like a breeze to stitch up. Long enough that you feel you get into a piecing groove, but not so long that you feel tempted to start another project 😉
They’re perfect for trying out new colour pairings. You can really see the combo come to life in a table runner. More so than a cushion.
They don’t require a ton of fabric.
They’re amazing at adding texture and colour to your dining table or sideboard. I use them both on their own or layered on top of a tablecloth (see picture below for an example!).
They can even be used at the base of your bed to add another layer of texture and softness.
I could probably go on, but you get the idea 😊
For more quilted table runner inspiration, check out:
This post contains affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission.
Table Runner Design
I’ve been smitten with the Refracted Star quilt block ever since I designed it back in 2022. The possibilities with this block are truly endless. For this first quilt adventure, I wanted to focus on playing with a harmonious colourway that featured shades of green and turquoise. They pair well to create an analogous colourway.
The Colourway Inspiration
I was after a wintery vibe that wasn’t overtly holiday-themed. I love having décor items in my home that I can pull out to align with the seasonal mood.
Since winter can be quite grey at times (especially if there’s no snow), I wanted the table runner to feel bright and ‘icy’. The cool component comes from the lighter shades of blue that instantly had me thinking of icicles, snowflakes, and the sky on those sunny winter days!
The greens play up the evergreen elements of the Canadian landscape and add that pop of colour that I just love. It gives a freshness to the quilted table runner that works equally well in winter or spring!
The fun was in playing with the colour combos and seeing how the hues looked different paired up with the various shades. Isn’t that the best part of quilting – seeing the fun fabric pairings?!
The Block Design
The Refracted Star quilt block pattern has you do a deep dive on all things half-rectangle triangles (HRT). These take a minute to piece together and then trim up. The trimming is key. It will help keep your points nice and sharp!
If you’ve never made HRTs, then I encourage you to refer to this step-by-step tutorial on how I made half-rectangle triangles. The trimming takes a minute to wrap your head around, so be sure to check out those tips.
Quilted table runner details
The size
The length of this table runner is quite long! I didn’t anticipate making such a long version – ha! Pretty sure I got into a piecing groove and forgot I wanted to reserve one of the blocks for a pillow – oops 😉
The quilting
Once I had the table runner pieced and basted, I turned my attention to the quilting design. My goal with this one was to keep the focus on the patchwork and colours and use the quilting to add texture and dimension.
I did that through stitching in the ditch and using this glorious 40wt Aurifil Thread. The effect it creates on the back of the table runner is super pretty, and means I could use this side too. You might recognize this linen from when I featured it in the Jade Ombré Quilted Coat.
The binding
Since I was working with the fabrics in my stash, and to help keep things coordinated, I opted for a solid green binding. I loved that I had enough of the Ruby and Bee solid leftover from making my Little Froeset Quilt to make it work.
You know how much I love a good hand-stitching session, and nothing quite beats slowing down and stitching while the weather is frightful outside. That’s exactly what happened when I brought this pretty up with me to the cottage to finish her up over the holidays.
There was plenty of this 8wt pearl cotton thread leftover from stitching the Holiday Winter Star Quilt, and it tied in beautifully with the blues featured on the front. Plus, I just love the name of this thread colour: Winter’s Breath. Seems fitting 😉
If you’ve never added big stitch hand quilting to your binding, I encourage you to give it a go. I was super surprised by how much I enjoy hand stitching (didn’t think I would). You really can’t beat the texture and detail it adds to your quilted projects.
Check out the full tutorial on how to do that here.
Make it Your Own
Here’s an overview of the materials and notions I featured in this Refracted Star quilted table runner:
- Refracted Star Quilt Block Pattern (I made 6 blocks)
- Ruby and Bee Solids in shades of green and blue
- Artisan Cotton in green
- Linen for backing
- 50wt Aurifil thread for piecing
- 40wt Aurifil Thread for machine quilting
- 8wt Pearl cotton thread for big stitch hand-quilting
- Sewing machine
- Cutting mat
- Rotary cutter with these blades
- Ruler – long
- Ruler – short
- Iron
- Wool pressing mat
- Pins
- Small scissors
- Pin cushion
- Erasable marking tool
- Washi tape (optional)
Shop my most used notions here.
For more quilting inspiration, check out:
Quilted table runners are also a great way for you to explore new ideas without committing a crazy amount of time or materials. If you haven’t tried stitching them up, I encourage you to give it a go!
Download your Refracted Star quilt block pattern to get started today!
Happy quilting!
xo
Shannon
Never miss a post – sign up for the weekly newsletter.
This post uses affiliate links. For more info, visit the FAQ page.
Absolutely beautiful!
Thank you so much, Ann! Thrilled you like this one!!