How to hand quilt an embellished table runner

Yesterday we put together the primary elements to our hand quilted table runner using zippers and wool felt to create fun flowers. Today, it’s time to hand quilt our beautiful wool felt embroidered table runner. Keeping with the theme of the table runner, we’re going to do a running stitch with DMC embroidery threads.

Layer backing and batting to top and pin. Instead of using machine quilting because I did all hand work in the center, I decided to hand quilt using embroidery thread into the grey background. I used two strands and used a light gray. I put a piece of tape down the length of the table runner and stitched beside it to help me keep a straight line. In a couple of places I used bright pink embroidery threads to give a pop to the background.

Starting at one end, stitch small running stitches through all the layers. When you hit a flower, go to the backside and come up on the other side of the flower and continue quilting through the layers.

To make the grass, loop pieces of rick rack into different spots along the bottom and pin in place. Take a couple of stitches along the very end of the rick rack to hold in place, and when you sew on the binding, it will get stitched securely down. Tack down the top of the loops.

For my binding, I used a bright green fabric to tie in with the stems (zippers) and grass (rick rack) on the table runner. I cut 2½ʺ strips and sewed them together, then folded in half and pressed.

Sew the binding onto your quilt. I use Clover Wonder Clips to fold the binding over and love how they hold it in place.

Once the binding is on your table runner, you’re ready to display it! The great thing about this hand quilted table runner is that it can also be put on a dresser, coffee table or even throw a sleeve on it and use it as a wall hanging.

I loved doing it because I could take it on the go with me, due to all the fun handwork!