I just now realized there are nine pages of responses. It looks like reposting your question really worked! I am having some problems using the new format but I am not real computer savvy and at my age change is not a welcome thing. I will keep trying. I posted a picture the other day but haven't been able to since then. Anyway, good luck with your table runners.

I am so glad you asked this question.....(and I'm just seeing it today!)......I want to make table runners as well, just didn't have the chance to yet....but I thought you HAD to use batting. Then just this Sunday my Mom made one, with no batting at all, just folded over and stitched. So your question helped both of us!!!

Some people choose not to put in batting because glassware tends to be unstable on it. I don't own any stemware at all, so not an issue for me (coffee, teacups, mugs - all go on tablerunners just fine without tipping). Since I don't know how the table runner would be used, I would use Warm and Natural or that Thermo stuff for batting. That way, if they set a hot casserole on it thinking it works just like a hot pad, their table doesn't suffer. I know some people have used felted wool as a batting, but wool continues to shrink every time it is washed and dried and can result in funky shifting within the project.

I like to put a thin batting in my table runners. They need something to make them look smart and to do some quilting on.

I used a cotton batting in the table runners I made last Christmas and they worked out really nice.

I use warm and natural, as you need something for protection of your table from hot dishes. The runner doesn't seem too thick.

I havent used flannel, but have used W&N, it works well. You can also use canvas. I buy it at Hancocks, it sews ok, use a heavier needle if needed, it washes well and it supports really well.

Ditto Ditto Ditto on the board thing - it doesn't seem to be displaying as it used to.
I used a fusible poly for table mats and it was very odd and stiff after I ironed it but it softened right up. It's nice and thin but doesn't give you the shrinkage of cotton, just enough puff to show off the quilting.

I like to use warm & natural in my runners and other small projects. I think it gives my projects a nicer finish~

I have used flannels and polar fleece instead of batting for table runners. And in my most recent runner, an Asian inspired one for my sister's dining room, I'm not using any batting at all.