— Petal Layer C (Outer Petals, Make 8) :
Round 1 :
Using deep teal (outermost color), ch8 for each petal and join to disk behind middle petals: 1 sc in 2nd ch, 1 hdc, 4 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc, sl st to disk. Make 8 petals.
Round 2 :
On each petal top: 4 dc, ch3, 4 dc to make a pronounced outer petal. Fasten off and weave tail through the base to cinch slightly if you want the outer petals to cup upward.
Info :
For the medium and small lotus, make 6 petals per layer and reduce chain lengths by 1–2 to scale: medium (ch5/6/7), small (ch4/5/6). Block petals slightly with steam and shape by cupping edges toward center for realistic flower form.
Round Finish :
Sew the completed flower to the runner center points: position the three flowers along the runner column spaced evenly—approx 16-18 cm between flower centers depending on motif count and table length. Secure with matched yarn and a sturdy ladder stitch through the cream join round for stability.
— Leaf Accent (Make 6) :
Round 1 :
With leaf green, ch11, 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook, 1 hdc, 3 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc, 1 sl st into next ch to create pointed teardrop shape; turn and work along opposite side of foundation chain: 1 sc, 1 hdc, 3 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc. Sl st to join at base. Fasten off. (approx 20 sts per leaf)
Info :
Sew two leaves under each lotus (one on each side) to frame the flower, or cluster three leaves around the base for a fuller botanical look.
— Decorative Runner Border — Scallop Foundation :
Round 1 :
With cream yarn, join at one corner point of runner with sl st. Work 1 sc in each st around runner edge, working 3 sc in each outer diamond point to maintain shape. Maintain approximately even stitch count; you should work around the entire runner in approximately 240–260 sc depending on motif density.
Round 2 :
Once the sc round is complete, chain 1, *skip 2 sts, 5 dc in next st (scallop), skip 2 sts, sc in next st; rep from * around to form scallops. Work 1 sc in the corner sts to keep edges flat. End with sl st to first sc.
Info :
Adjust spacing between scallops if your stitch count differs; you want consistent scallops without bunching. If you encounter extra space at corners, increase to 7 dc for that scallop and reduce a sc elsewhere to compensate.
Round 3 :
Switch to mustard/gold for bead accents. In each scallop work: (sl st to center of scallop, ch3, dc, ch3, sl st) to create a small loop for attaching beads later. Fasten off and weave ends.
Info :
Optionally crochet a small round bead or use wooden beads. To attach crocheted beads: make a small MR 6 sc, close and leave a 10cm tail for sewing; sew bead to center of scallop loops and secure thoroughly with yarn needle and extra backstitches.
— Final Edge Embellishment — Picot & Bead Fringe :
Round 1 :
With 3.0mm hook and cream yarn, join in between scallops and work (sc, ch4, picot: ch3, sl st in 3rd ch from hook, sl st back to base), sc in next gap. Repeat between each scallop creating neat picot loops. This will yield approximately 30–36 picot loops around the runner depending on size.
Round 2 :
Using mustard/gold yarn, attach a small crocheted bead or wooden bead to every second picot: insert tail from the crocheted bead through the picot center and secure on the WS with tight stitches. Reinforce with a small drop of fabric glue if using wooden beads.
Info :
The picot and bead fringe is what gives the runner its lively finish. Ensure beads are balanced and not too heavy to avoid pulling the scallops out of shape. Block final piece flat after attaching beads and weaving in ends.
— Alternative Border Variation (Optional) :
Round 1 :
If you prefer a lacey border, after the sc round work *ch5, dc in 3rd sc ahead, ch5, sl st* to create open chains forming a lacy frame. Fasten off and weave ends. This yields a lighter, airier edge for smaller tables.
Info :
Choose this variation for summer decor or when using lighter yarns; maintain consistent tension to keep the runner from puckering.
— Additional Decorative Square Inserts (Optional, Make 6) :
Round 1 :
MR, 6 sc into ring, pull tight (6)
Round 2 :
Inc in each st around (6 inc) (12)
Round 3 :
(1 sc, inc) x 6 (18)
Round 4 :
Chain 1, turn and work 1 sc in next 9 sts, ch6, turn and work back along ch to create a small vertical bar; this creates a textured insert that nests in motif centers. Fasten off. Sew into selected diamond centers before final border rounds.
Info :
Textured inserts add depth to the runner interior. Make them in contrasting color for emphasis or in cream to read as subtle highlights.
— Assembly and Placement of Flowers :
Info :
Determine the final placement of the three lotus flowers by laying the runner on your work surface or table: center flower roughly at 1/2 length, two others spaced evenly above and below. Pin the flowers to the runner at the cream ridge round so the join is concealed.
Round 1 :
Sew large flower first: using matching deep teal yarn and tapestry needle, sew around the base of the center disk to the cream ridge, working ladder stitch through the ridge round and the flower base. Use approximately 12 secure stitches then continue around until the flower is firmly attached. Tie secure knots and weave ends to the WS.
Round 2 :
Repeat for medium and small flowers. Place two leaves beneath each flower and sew leaves in place with small whip stitches. Add extra reinforcing stitches at the flower center to ensure they stay against daily handling and light cleaning.
Info :
If you want removable flowers (for washing the runner), sew small snap fasteners or sew buttons to the runner and create coordinating looped yarn tabs on the flower backs to snap into place.
— Blocking and Finishing :
Info :
Lay the assembled runner on a blocking mat and pin to the exact finished dimensions. Use a steam iron held above the fabric to relax fibers or spray lightly with water for wet blocking if yarn is washable. Allow to dry fully. Trim any visible ends on the WS. Re-check bead security and reinforce if needed.
Round 1 :
Final check: Inspect all joins and reinforce any seam areas that feel loose. Lightly press the flower petals into shape and trim stray fibers.
Info :
When washing in future, remove any wooden beads first if possible and hand wash the runner flat to maintain shape. If machine washing, use a lingerie bag and gentle cycle with cold water, then re-block while damp.
Completing this geometric lotus table runner is such a satisfying project—every motif, petal and scallop comes together to make a show-stopping centerpiece. The layered lotus appliques add beautiful texture and depth, while the contrasting colors pop against wooden surfaces. 🧶💛 Blocking and careful sewing make the final piece look polished and professional. Share your finished runner to brighten a dining or console table and enjoy a handmade heirloom you'll love displaying! ✨
