How to Sew a Disappearing Nine Patch Table Runner

Making a table runners using the “disappearing nine patch” block pattern is a simple project that can be made in an afternoon. I love this block because it is made from 9 simple squares of fabric, but it deceives the eye into looking much more complicated. I also enjoy mixing fabrics in different ways to create beautiful patterns across the table runners. You can choose to use the same fabric for each nine patch, or use a different mix of fabric in each.

A great time saver for both cutting and fabric selection is to find a 5-inch square Charm Pack you like and a coordinating backing fabric. (Found at quilting fabric stores and online. I love the selection of Moda Fabrics.) But if you like mixing fabric colors and prints, this is a great opportunity to try something to coordinate with your home décor or something new.

I don’t use batting or binding so the runner stays thin and good for keeping glasses and dishware balanced on the table. Plus it cuts out those extra steps to keep this project quick and easy!

I have created a long version and a short version for different sized tables or side boards.

How to craft a 39 x 13 inch wide table runner:

Supplies:
5 fat quarters OR 1/4 yard each of 2 main print fabrics, 2 secondary print fabrics, and 1 solid accent fabric
1/2 yard of a backing fabric
Coordinating thread

Use a 1/4-inch seam in all steps

Step 1: Cut 5-inch squares (27 total)
Cut six 5-inch squares of each main and secondary fabrics.
Cut three 5-inch squares of the solid accent fabric.

Step 2: Sew nine patches together (3 total)
Sew together using a 1/4-inch seam.
Arrange fabric as shown in the diagram:
Fabric A & B: main prints
Fabric C & D: secondary prints
Fabric E: solid accent

Step 3: Cut each nine patch into quarters as shown in the diagram
Now you have 12 blocks.

Step 4: Arrange the blocks as shown in diagram and sew together

Step 5: Sew on backing fabric
Square and measure runner top and cut backing to match size.
Sew right sides together, leaving an opening for turning right side out.
Clip corners, turn right side out, blind stitch opening closed, and iron.

 Step 6: Topstitch
Sew together the two layers as desired.
Since there is no batting, it is not necessary for complicated quilting.
The example shown uses a simple X through each 2 by 2 blocks.

Step 7: Enjoy your new crafty table runner!

How to craft a 65 x 13 inch wide table runner:

Supplies:
1 Charm Pack of 5-inch squares (42 squares)
1 yard of coordinating fabric to use as backing fabric
Coordinating thread

Use a 1/4-inch seam in all steps

Step 1: Cut 5 5-inch squares from the backing fabric
These squares will be used once in each 9 patch with the charm pack squares

 Step 2: Sew nine patches together (5 total)
Arrange fabric in a random pattern. (You will have 2 extra squares that are not used.)
Keep in mind the corners squares will remain the large squares in the final block, and the middle square will become the small squares in the final block.

Step 3: Cut each nine patch into quarters as shown in the diagram
Now you have 20 blocks.

Step 4: Arrange the blocks as shown in diagram and sew together

Step 5: Sew on backing fabric
Square and measure runner top and cut backing to match size.
(The backing fabric will need to be pieced to create a 65 1/2 inch by 13 1/2 inch size.)
Sew right sides together, leaving an opening for turning right side out.
Clip corners, turn right side out, blind stitch opening closed, and iron.

 Step 6: Topstitch
Sew together the two layers as desired.
Since there is no batting, it is not necessary for complicated quilting.
The example shown uses a simple X through each 2 by 2 blocks.

Step 7: Enjoy your new crafty table runner!