How to Keep a Mantle Runner From Slipping

Non-Slip Rug Gripper or Rubber-Based Shelf Paper Trick

• 1

  Place the unfolded mantel runner on a flat surface. Unroll the rug gripper or shelf paper and lay it on top of the mantel runner to help you gauge the width and length of the gripper material necessary to hold the mantel runner in place. Alternatively, measure the mantel runner with a tape measure, then measure the length of your gripper material. Cut the gripper material with scissors to fit the length and width of the runner.

• 2

  Clean any dust, candle wax or other debris from the mantel shelf with a dust cloth.

• 3

  Lay the gripper material directly on the mantel, then place the mantel runner on top of the gripper. The semi-tacky gripper material secures the runner in place.

Museum Putty

• 4

  Lay the mantel runner on a flat surface. Ensure that the runner lies on its finished side with the back or unfinished side up.

• 5

  Pinch off several dime-size dabs of tacky museum putty, then mold with your fingers to create a small circle of putty. Flatten the putty so it does not create lumps in the mantel runner.

• 6

  Place the putty dots along the perimeter of the mantel runner approximately 6 to 8 inches apart to cover the length of the material. Gently press down on the putty to ensure a low profile on the fabric.

• 7

  Lay the mantel runner putty-side down on top of the mantel shelf. Press down on the top of the fabric at the putty dots to secure the contact between the runner and mantel.