http://www.quiltbus.com/tabletopper.htm

What about three easy star patterns from Quilterscache.com done in Christmas fabrics or in fabrics that will go well with the colors in their kitchen or dining room?

Here's an idea: why not use a heavy-weight interfacing or flannel in place of batting; it will sit flatter on the table than a quilted runner will and provide a more stable base for anything that is placed upon it (like a bowl of flowers or fruit or candlesticks) AND you really don't have to quilt it if you don't want to - or just do some basic machine quilting straight lines to accent the pattern. I've done this before with table squares and placemats and prefer no batting for these items.

Teresa

Here's the pattern for one I made last year:

Here is a link that might be useful: Christmas Table Runner

I think Teresa is right Judy. I would just pick an easy block or three blocks and let the fabric do the work. You could make simple 9 patches and it would still be pretty.

Fran

I made several of these table runners only instead of glue I sewed my snowflakes. I used fabric for the body and not felt with a heavy-weight interfacing they really turned out cute....I let my grandson when he was with me make a placemat for himself with the felt being glued............
Red

Here is a link that might be useful: link

Here is another.
Red

Here is a link that might be useful: Link

I also like this pattern simple but your color strips and fabric can be anything christmas halloween, easter etc
Red

Here is a link that might be useful: link

I would chose a pattern that you really like, make as many blocks as needed for the length you need, then add to the borders what ever you need to get the finished size.... this way you can pick a pattern you think you can complete in the time you have before you need to give the gift... keeping it simple always make a runner (or any project) look elegant. Remember that it is usually the fabric that gives it the WOW you want.
Barbara