We feel your pain: A decently-priced fall table runner that doesn't feature pumpkin, falling-leaf, or wicked-witch motifs is so hard to find—just when you need it most.
Forget those too-literal table runners that begin circulating in September, proliferating every store's selection of table linens until you see them on clearance come late-November. (And nobody wants to bust their holiday budgets on home decor, especially if they're also hosting this year's Friendsgiving.) Every stylish tablescape calls for an affordable, workhorse runner that seamlessly takes you through autumn, the December holidays, and into the New Year.
There's no better time than now to start planning those fall and winter tablescapes. These 15 table runners each cost less than $50—and look fabulous all year long.
Rustic
For the ultimate all-season runner, this cotton, blue-stripe version looks just as good as the basis for an abundant Thanksgiving tablescape as it does draping the table during a fresh summer brunch. Fringed edges give it a rustic vibe.
Organic
Handwoven cotton and jute come together for an organic, modern runner that doesn't look weighty or overpowering. Its neutral tone goes well with any color scheme you choose while decorating for Thanksgiving.
Iconic
This cotton runner's waterlily motif is actually one of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's leaded, art glass window designs that never came to life—and is, at once, elegant and casual with its tailored corners and whimsical design. This ditty will take you well into Hanukkah and Christmas, especially if you dress your dining table in glittery baubles.
Tribal
Traditional African mudcloth fabric was the inspiration for this tribal, cotton number. Four continuous pieces of jute twine zigzag along its symmetrical white lines, and its rich, dark tone sets the mood for fall's shorter days and longer nights.
Christmasy
Forest-green fibers are woven into this taupe runner, forming vertical lines of diamonds traveling up and down the piece. Its fringed edge makes it casual enough for everyday meals but it would be just as apropos for a Christmas table setting.
Coastal
This versatile canvas version is unapologetically plain but casual and tailored; it's not looking to make a fuss. Its stonewashed-gray tone evokes a coastal holiday vibe. We imagine two boughs of fresh, magnolia-leaf garlands resting on either side.
Paper
Sometimes, big holiday parties call for disposable tableware options (just don't go overboard on them). These recycled-paper table runners are refreshingly stylish; plus, there's no need to feel guilty about using one just once.
Bohemian
Crocheted cotton runners like this one gained popularity in the 1970s, disappeared for a bit, and they've once again gained some traction. This laciness of this bohemian number beautifully contrasts with a rustic farmhouse table, and would also work for any Hanukkah or Christmas table.
Farmhouse
This buffalo-checked cotton table runner is weighty and evokes the coziness of a woolen fireside blanket. It's the perfect addition to a snowy Thanksgiving table out West. Plus, its neutral tones go with virtually any other color you incorporate on the tabletop.
Glam
It won't extend past the table's edges: This hand-beaded, peacock-tone runner is meant to rest in the center of a dining table. It's the perfect complement for a glamorous, showy Thanksgiving centerpiece like tall, flowering branches or a flower-and-feather centerpiece.
Delicate
This delicate, woven-linen runner would look amazing on a whitewashed, or otherwise weathered fall table. Its seasonal persimmon tone is perfect for fall, but it's festive enough—with its fringed edges and burgundy tassels—to take you right into the New Year.
Marbelized
Here's a neutral, slightly-dressed-up cotton option in beachy shades of sand, slate, rust, and gray-blue. Its swirly, marbled design was screen printed (on one side) for maximum realness. We imagine this one decking out a Thanksgiving table in snowy, bucolic New England.
Bold
Yes, purple and orange technically clash, but this color combo is just. so. good. This cotton runner is perfect for all seasons. But on a festive fall table, gussied up with orange and white gourds, moody pillar candles, and gold flatware? Very chic, indeed. Delicate stitching throughout resembles charming, hand-done patchwork.
Botanical
A bold, eclectic choice, this inexpensive cotton runner features a flora-and-fauna print that's vaguely evocative of Timorous Beasties' Bloomsbury Garden fabric. We can see this runner as the basis for an abundant fall tablescape featuring tiered trays spilling over with red and green grapes, fruit bowls overfilled with clementines (stems on, of course), and greenery galore.
Autumnal
Although its colors (and soft, nubby texture) are so perfectly autumnal, we can easily see this fall table runner making another cameo at next year's Memorial Day BBQ.