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Looking for a quick and colorful way to dress up your summer table? This DIY paper umbrella table runner is easy, inexpensive and adds the perfect festive touch to your table. With just a few materials, you can create a fun tropical-inspired centerpiece that comes together in minutes!

Easy DIY Summer Party Decor

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When it comes to summer decorating, I tend to break all my usual decor rules. 

In general, I like light, airy neutrals, an elevated look as opposed to something more whimsical.

However, for summer, none of that appeals to me very much.

I like color.

I like fun.

I like whimsical.

And I feel like summer gives me permission to break out of my usual decor box.

So, in light of that, I want to share a quick, easy, and fun DIY table runner for your next summer party. Or even just to enjoy at your own inside dining table.

Materials for DIY Umbrella Table Runner

2” wide burlap ribbon 
Colorful paper drink umbrellas
Snips
Scissors
Hot glue gun (optional)

1| Determine length and cut your ribbon.

Lay out your burlap ribbon to the desired length for your table and cut.

My runner was 5 feet, just shy of the full length of the table. But feel free to make it whatever length you like.

I chose a 2″ wide ribbon. I felt like 2″ worked great with the umbrellas – wide enough for the umbrellas to shine, but not too bulky and not taking up too much table space.

Once the umbrellas were in place, the runner measured about 5-6″ wide, so keep that in mind when determining the width of your ribbon.

I recommend using burlap ribbon. It will make the next step easier!

2| Add your first umbrella.

Carefully poke the first paper umbrella through the ribbon at the beginning edge. If you’re using burlap, it should go through easily.

3| Trim the stem.

Flip over the runner to the backside. Using snips, trim the bottom of the umbrella’s wooden stem so that only about 1/8″ to 1/4″ is left poking through the back. This keeps the runner flat against the table.

4| Add hot glue for security (optional).

If you want a sturdier hold — especially if your runner will be moved or used outdoors — add a small dab of hot glue where the stem meets the back of the ribbon.

5| Repeat, overlapping and varying colors.

Continue adding umbrellas in a variety of colors and patterns, overlapping them slightly to create a full, layered look.

The more umbrellas you use, the more vibrant your runner will be!

For my 5′ runner, I used about 60 umbrellas.

Assembly Options

1| If you won’t be moving the table runner much, you can feel free to skip the hot glue step. I actually moved my runner quite a bit, and I didn’t use hot glue. 

A few umbrellas came out when I was moving the runner, but they slipped back into place easily.

2| Also, you can add the umbrellas first, and then hot glue them all at the same time at the end. Just be sure to gently flip the runner once all the umbrellas are in place.

Styling Tips

Below, you can see how I used it for a summer outdoor tablescape! Fun and festive!

***If you want to see the details about the above summer tablescape and the DIY pineapple centerpiece, you can check it out here!

Also, you can see how I used it indoors as well, so it works great in either location!

Or, pair this runner with simple white dishes, rattan placemats, or tropical themed party decor.

Perfect For:

• Backyard BBQs

• Pool parties

• Birthday dinners

• Summer brunches

• Tropical-themed events

• Summer outdoor dinner parties

This project is not only budget-friendly but also reusable — just gently roll it up and store it away for your next sunny celebration.

For succinct, printable directions, see card below!

And for another fun idea with paper umbrellas, check out these fun beach -themed Oreo pops!

More Summer Entertaining Ideas

40+ Best Pool Party Ideas for the Whole Family

35 Fabulous DIY Summer Centerpieces

40 Summer Appetizers and Outdoor Party Foods

Best Backyard Dinner Party Ideas {Budget-Friendly, Outdoor Charm}

If you try this idea, I’d LOVE to see it! Tag me on Instagram @100affections and I’ll share in my stories! Or, leave a photo comment on Pinterest!

Other thoughts? I’d love to hear them! Leave a comment below!

If you enjoyed this post, I’d be so grateful if you pinned or shared!