I've never made one, but seem to find the best runners while looking at pashimas and scarves. My favorite is a leopard print which looks great on the antique buffet in my foyer. I have several, and use darker tones in fall/winter and lighter tones for spring/summer. I also use a throw on the DR table as well as an antique pedestal table in the GR. In either case, I bunch up the fabric rather than lay in flat. ;o)

I've made runners and napkins, but never with scalloped edges. I stick to straight, easy seams myself! Most of the time, though, I buy them on sale at Hobby Lobby, Target, Marshalls, TJ Maxx and local department stores. As for doilies, the only ones I seem to use/have are the white or cream colored crocheted ones that I've inherited or bought at garage sales and consignment shops.
Lynn

I have made them -- with canvas and hand-painted them (like a floor cloth, then backed it with a coordinating fabric). Placemats, too. I did not scallop the edges.
But, I've also purchased them for real cheap @ HomeGoods.