How to Create Adorable Carrot Table Runners for Easter

Step by Step

Step 1: Measure Your Table

First things first—you need to know how long your table runner should be. I typically make mine hang over each end of the table by about 6-8 inches. So measure the length of your table and add 12-16 inches to that measurement.

For example, if your table is 60 inches long, you might want your finished runner to be about 72-76 inches total. Don’t worry too much about width at this point—we’ll address that when we design our carrots.

Step 2: Design Your Carrot Template

Now for the fun part—creating your carrot shapes! I like to draw a basic carrot template on scrap paper first. The size of your carrots will depend on your table size and personal preference.

For my standard dining table, I usually make carrots that are about 12-15 inches long and 6-8 inches wide at their widest point. The classic carrot shape is wider at the top and tapers to a point at the bottom.

Here’s a simple trick: fold a piece of paper in half lengthwise, draw half a carrot shape along the fold, then cut it out while still folded. When you unfold it, you’ll have a perfectly symmetrical carrot!

If you’re planning to make multiple carrots for your runner, you might want to create a few different sizes and shapes for visual interest. I usually make 3-5 different carrot templates, ranging from short and stout to long and slender.

Step 3: Cut Out Your Carrots

Once you have your templates, trace them onto your orange material and cut them out. The number of carrots you’ll need depends on your table length and the size of your carrots.

For my 72-inch runner, I typically use 5-7 carrots, allowing them to overlap slightly. If you’re using fabric and want a more polished look, you can cut two identical pieces for each carrot and sew them together, leaving an opening for stuffing. This creates a more three-dimensional effect that I absolutely love for special occasions.

If you’re using paper, just cut single pieces—they’ll look great laid flat on the table. For beginners or if you’re short on time, the flat version works perfectly well!

Step 4: Create the Carrot Tops

Now for the greens! Cut leaf shapes from your green material. I usually make 3-5 leaves for each carrot, varying in size and shape. Some can be long and thin, others shorter and wider.

The great thing about carrot tops is that they don’t have to be perfect—in nature, they’re wild and varied. That’s what makes them so charming on our table runners!

If you’re using fabric or felt, you can add some simple stitching in the middle of each leaf to create veins. This adds a lovely detail that really elevates the finished product. With paper, you can draw these veins with a marker or colored pencil.

Step 5: Assemble Your Runner

Now it’s time to put everything together! Lay out your orange carrot shapes along your table, arranging them so they form a runner. I like to have them slightly overlapping, with the tops all pointing in the same direction.

Once you’re happy with the arrangement, attach the green leaves to the top of each carrot. If you’re using fabric, you can sew these on or use fabric glue. For paper versions, regular craft glue works perfectly.

Here’s a tip: don’t attach the carrots to each other unless you want to. I find that keeping them separate makes storage easier, and I can rearrange them differently each year!

Step 6: Add Extra Details (Optional)

Want to take your carrot table runner to the next level? Here are some fun additions I’ve tried over the years:

• Embroider or draw little lines on the orange parts to mimic carrot texture
• Add a touch of brown at the very tip of each carrot for realism
• Stitch or glue small white seed beads along the carrots to represent soil clinging to freshly pulled carrots
• Add a touch of sparkle with metallic thread or glitter (for a more whimsical look)
• Incorporate ribbon or lace around the top of each carrot for a farmhouse chic style

Last Easter, I even added little bunny cut-outs that looked like they were peeking out from behind some of the carrots. My nieces and nephews absolutely loved this touch!

Step 7: Display Your Creation

Finally, arrange your completed carrot runner on your table. I find it looks best when the carrots are positioned at slight angles rather than perfectly straight—this creates a more natural, garden-fresh appearance.

For an extra special touch, I sometimes add a few real or artificial spring flowers between the carrots. Small nests with chocolate eggs, tiny stuffed bunnies, or pastel-colored candles also pair beautifully with this runner.