I have used shorter rectangular runners. Sometimes the "short way" and even diagonally. If your table has a seam in it, the runner can conceal that line and it is rather nice. I don't have one on right now so no photo.

Mine does not hang over the edge it is exactly the long length of the table. I can't find any long enough to go over the edge. But it looks OK. I keep it set up with the table runner and place mats and the charger plates and Coasters. With an arrangement in the center. I can take a picture later for you. I like for my table to show so prefer a runner.

I haven't used my runners since we moved in 2011, as they are still in one of the "mystery" boxes. I've placed them both crosswise and lengthwise on the table at various times. My usual one sat lengthwise and stopped short of the place setting on each end.

Mine matches my chair seats, I upholstered. Thus the width of the fabric wasn't enough to make a longer runner. I used to keep the 2 leaves in the table, then it looked more like a center piece "display" than a table runner.....as it was even shorter to the table ends.

Raven....I really like white washed pine and slipper chairs! Nice!

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I'll probably use 2 table runners, criss-crossed on my round dinette table to get a trendier look. They "would" hang over the table edges. Just using washable place mats right now.

Not mine....an example of a runner on top of a runner...

I prefer mine like Nicole____. No draping over the edges.

My table is very long even without the leaves. I change it out with the seasons or holidays. Usually I can find them at Pottery Barn that are long enough and sometimes at Pier 1 on sale. Haven’t bought one in a while but this one was really long. I usually prefer them to hang over the edge but I have a couple that don’t. I have even folded one in the middle and put something on top so I could use it with placemats without interference.

Some of my table runners hang over the edge and others are shorter. My table is oval so usually the runner is lengthwise on the table. A few times though when I had another couple over for dinner I put two shorter ones going across the table so we are facing each other. Mine has the crack going across as it can be made larger .but I always ran the runner lengthwise if I was leaving it on the table. I have a set of round glass candle holders with suspended candles in the center now, no runners.

Thanks Nicole. I loved my table and Fleur-de-lis chairs I had before the flood so I replaced them with the same thing. This table has a lot more of the white wash on it.