Abstract Placemats & Table Runners
Table Placemats & Runners Explore
Why We Love Placemats & Table Runners
Accenting the tabletop is just as much of a necessity as getting the recipe right in whatever dish you are planning to serve your guests. Table placemats and runners give the table a much-needed personality and also keep it protected. When combined with dinnerware, flatware, glassware and a centerpiece, you'll have well-dressed dining table that is ready for any entertaining occasion.
Where Table Mats & Runners Work Best
A set of table placemats and an accompanying table runner, of course, work best for the formal dining table. For special occasions where you will be serving multiple guests or a quiet, weeknight dinner on your own, placemats and runners are a key piece of the tabletop. You'll love them for their functional ability to keep the table protected and for easy after-dinner cleanup, but you'll especially appreciate their intricate patterns, use of high-quality materials and eye-catching design. From traditional oval and square-shaped placemats to long table runners you can use for an extension dining table, this selection has the textiles you need to successfully outfit your tabletop.
Placemats & Runners for Every Style
It's accessory items like placemats and table runners that give a kitchen or dining space its true character. And any style of the dining room is able to accommodate a new set of table mats and runners. Find a diverse collection of tabletop textiles from Chilewich. From the design mind of textile expert, Sandy Chilewich, this assortment of tabletop implements spans a variety of shapes, patterns and materials, giving you insurmountable options to introduce to your table. Easy to clean and easy to add to any space makes Chilewich placemats and runners a go-to choice. You may also want to browse the selection from Issey Miyake for Iittala. Given Issey Miyake's expertise in the design community, you can only expect the best in his offering of tabletop placemats and runners.
Choosing the Best Placemats & Table Runners
As with any dining room accessory, you'll want to choose textiles that will blend in well among your existing items of decor. Look for colors and patterns you can easily introduce to your tabletop without having to refresh the rest of your decor. Or choose styles that make an elegant statement to stand out from other decorations. Measure your table to choose the best sizes of placemats and long table runners. Finally, review a product's cleaning options to determine the best ways to wash the textiles as cannot be cleaned by the dishwasher. If you have questions about the modern placemats and runners featured here, please call our home decor experts at 877.445.4486.
Other Considerations
Choose additional table decorations to go with your new placemats and runners. Serve your guests in style with bowls, dishes, utensils and drinkware found in the modern serveware category. Browse the available glassware to find a style of drinking glass fit for every beverage. From whiskey to wine and even water, there's a glass for every occasion. And don't forget the place settings! Guests will need just the right flatware to enjoy their dining experience. Lastly, you may consider choosing new and comfortable seating from the dining room chairs assortment.
Placemats & Runner FAQs
What is a table runner used for?
A table runner adds style and protection to your table. Primarily decorative, table runners enhance the aesthetic appeal by introducing color, texture, and patterns. Modern table runners can anchor centerpieces or provide contrast against table surfaces, especially when paired with placemats.
Expert Tip: To elevate a minimalist table setting, layer a textured or patterned runner over a solid tablecloth or bare wood table—this creates a focal point without overwhelming the space.
Do people still use placemats on tables?
Yes, table placemats remain popular for both their functionality and decorative appeal. Placemats protect tabletops from spills, heat, and scratches while adding visual interest. Modern placemats come in various designs to complement contemporary dining decor.
Expert Tip: Mix materials like linen, cork, or woven vinyl for added texture—and opt for easy-to-clean finishes if the placemats are used daily.
What size placemats for a round table?
Standard rectangular placemats measuring approximately 12 by 18 inches or round placemats around 15 inches in diameter work well for round tables. Round placemats can particularly enhance a round table's aesthetic, maintaining symmetry and a cohesive look.
Expert Tip: For smaller round tables, consider switching to wedge-shaped placemats—they fit snugly without overlapping or crowding the table edges.
Do you still use placemats with a table runner?
Absolutely. Combining table placemats with a table runner adds depth, texture, and visual interest to your dining setup. Coordinate colors and styles, such as a black table runner with complementary placemats, for a cohesive, modern look.
Expert Tip: Keep proportions in mind—a table runner should extend beyond the ends of the table by 6–10 inches, while placemats should not overlap with the runner for a balanced layout.
How do I choose a table runner color?
Choose a table runner color based on your dining area's decor, table color, and the mood you want to set. Neutral shades, like a black table runner, offer versatile, modern elegance, while bold or patterned table runners can serve as statement pieces. Matching or contrasting with your placemats creates further design harmony.
Expert Tip: For seasonal flexibility, invest in a neutral runner as your base and layer it with themed or colorful accents for holidays and special occasions.
