What you'll make
Each runner is a 3.5 yard (3.2 m) length of 36 inch wide cotton cheesecloth, cut from one 80 yard roll and left with soft, frayed ends. A short soak in orange pekoe tea turns it from white to a warm oatmeal shade for about 64 cents extra. One roll covers 22 tables, so a runner costs about $3.33 instead of $13.99 for a single ready-made one.
Materials (per item)
- cotton cheesecloth (thin, gauzy fabric) · 3.5 yardscut to length for the runner$2.69
- black tea bags (optional) · 10 bagsdye the cloth a warm beige$0.64
- DIY cost each$3.33
Tools
- Sharp fabric scissors
- Tape measure
- Kettle or large stockpot
- Plastic bucket or tub (8 litres or more)
- Rubber gloves
- Clothesline or shower rod
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Each guide is built from at least three published how-to sources and real store prices, checked on the date shown. We write the steps in our own words and list every source at the bottom.