Quilt-As-You-Go Christmas Table Runner Tutorial

Happy Thanksgiving! I'm celebrating completing prep work for all our festivities by making this quick and simple table runner. The other day, I discovered left over Moda Figgy Pudding from a 2009 quilting project. What a lucky discovery! And I whipped this project up in no time at all.

Using the quilt-a-you-go method made it super quick to complete - under two hours (hand binding not included).

Step 1: Cut strips of fabric to any width. The only requirement is they are a consistent length. Cut as many strips as you'd like your table runner long.

Step 2: Cut your backing and batting to be about 1" wider than your fabric strips. Layer batting on top of backing with WRONG side of backing facing UP.

Step 3: Line your first fabric strip up with the top of your batting and backing. The fabric strip should be RIGHT side up. Stitch a straight 1/4" seam.

Step 4: Add the second strip, placing it on top of the first strip with RIGHT SIDES facing. Stitch 1/4" seam.

Step 5: Press the second strip back so the WRONG sides is now on top of the batting. Now - check the backing and see that you have a nice quilting line!

Step 6: Continue in this way until the table runner is the length you'd like it to be. My fabric did not stay lined up throughout the piecing process. Don't worry if this happens to you too - you can always trim when squaring up.

Also, make sure your backing stays smooth. Periodically check to ensure there aren't puckers or wrinkles.

Step 7: When you reach the last strip, secure it in place with a 1/4" seam.

Step 8: Your edges will probably not have stayed lined up through the piecing process. This is okay. Just trim up and square up at this stage.

Step 9: Once your table runner is nice and square, add binding in your preferred method. I like to machine attach to the front and hand stitch to the back.

Step 10: Voila! A completed Christmas table runner!

Of course, you don't have to use Christmas fabric. You can do anything, using longer or shorter pieces to make different size table toppers, mug rugs, pillow covers, or small baby quilts. This would also be a great Jelly Roll project!

Please share your photos of your completed project in the Flickr Stash Resolution Podcast group!

Happy sewing!
♥Sarah