I've never made a table runner before, but I can't imagine not using anything. I have made some placemats and used the Warm & Natural and they turned out fine. Don't forget to post a pic! :)

I don't use batting, sometimes I will use flannel or another material. I did use batting early on, but if the material is good quality, I don't think it's needed. I also use muslin instead of batting.

I have used craft fleece as well as thin batting. Haven't tried flannel, but that sounds like a good alternative.

I like to use a batting when making table runners. Walmart has one that is perfect and quite reasonable. LOOK FOR IT WHERE THEY DISPLAY THEIR FUSIBLES,ETC. For heat resistant, use thermolam, which can be found in the same place. I used to work at Walmarts fabric dept. before they closed are department. The batting I am referring can also be used for wallhangings and was very popular with our customers. Hope this helps.

I use warm and natural or warm and white in mine and they seem to turn out fine. I've sold several at craft shows lately. I use them myself and they wash great too.

I use washable felt I wash and dry on hot at least 2 times, it does shrink, it gives a nice thin bat for quilting. have also used insulbrite works good to keep heat out.

I make alot of table runners and find it is a good way to use up my scrapes. Some turn out "puffier" than others but that's OK. I've used everything from felt, fleece, batting and flannel.

Yes they need a very lightweight cotton or blend batting. I've also used flannel.

I use Hobbs 80/20 Heirloom. It is thin and flat and it makes the free-motion quilting so much easier.

I have made tons of table runners for craft shows. I generally use the thinnest batting for them. If the runners are used during a dinner, a thin batting doesn't make the serving dishes and/or glassware sit at a tilt and spill onto the table or guest. Plus, it is easier to get a crisp edge after wshing the runners after use and they store better in a drawer until next holiday or season.