A set typically consists of a pair of Boudoir pillows (small rectangular pillows) in a contrasting color but complementing the theme and Bed Runner – a beautifully worked/woven strip of the same fabric approximately 18″ to 24″ wide that includes a Matching fabric edge band and about 24″ to 30″ longer than mattress width; so that it hangs at least 12″ to 15″ on each side of the bed.

As the Runner is kept hanging on two sides of the bed, it must have an excellent drop to be effective! Sometimes (especially in the case of twin beds), placing it lengthwise, starting from under the Boudoir pillow on top and continuing to the foot of the bed, looks very different and refreshing! A Bed Runner is either quilted or kept plain with a matching backing fabric depending on the drape of your fabric.

It’s the modern equivalent of the overstuffed bedspreads of the more indulgent times!

Here are the steps to make a perfect runner set: For Twin Bed Size: Runner Length = Bed Width + Drop from top of mattress to floor. Runner Width = Approximately 18″ to 24″ For Twin Bed – Size: Runner Length = Width of Bed + Drop from top of mattress to floor. Runner Width = Approximately 18″ to 24″ Cushions: Rectangular Cushions – Size: 9″ x 16″ or 12″ x 20″ in same fabric blend.

Twin beds: One cushion per bed. Double / Queen / King Beds: Two cushions per bed. Single beds can also have a single cushion or a variety of cushions of different sizes. The edges can be finished with bands of fabric in contrasting or complementary colors, or tassels can finish the smaller edges. The same finish continues on the cushion covers.

For a pronounced feminine look, fabrics such as pure silk/silk taffeta with silk or chiffon ruffles or quilted cotton doilies with fine cotton ruffles can be used. For a strong masculine look Patchwork faux/suede leather bed runner with matching square cushions (16″ x 16″ or 18″ x 18″).

Linear design (straight lines or a very small pattern along the straight lines) across (headboard to footboard) gives a different look than the same design across the width (across/side to side) .

Colors: light runner on darker bedspread, dark runner on lighter bedspread. Contrasting or complementary colors for modern/young combinations. Deeper Earth colors for minimalist design schemes.

One very obvious thing, which must always be remembered, is that only Fabric with a good ‘drape’ should be chosen as a bed runner.