Ideally, it should hang at least six inches over each end of your table, but shouldn’t hang further than your tablecloth. For example, if your table is 60 inches long, your table runner should be at least 72 inches long, allowing for six inches at either end of the table.Click to see full answer. Likewise, people ask, are table runners supposed to hang off table?Typically, a table runner should hang over each side of the table where the ends fall. This is much more esthetically pleasing than a runner that stops where the table ends or is slightly shorter than the table. The amount of hang should be equal on both sides and can vary, just like the drop length of a tablecloth.Also, how much should a table runner overhang? A table runner should be long enough to overhang the end of your table by approximately 6 to 10 inches on each end. If your table is 72 inches long, the table runner should be 84 to 92 inches long. Subsequently, question is, can a table runner be shorter than the table? A table runner can have a drop and hang over the sides of the table or it can be shorter than the length of the table and sit in the middle. If using a tablecloth along with the runner, the runner should not drop down past the drop of the tablecloth. And table runners aren’t just for dining tables.What is the point of a table runner?A table runner adds color, texture, and interest to your table and is the foundation for your table decor. Table runners also protect your table from spills and damage that can be caused by hot pans and dripping candle wax.