(re-post)
In the past I have had dressers large enough to do justice to this beautiful, handmade adornment and I may even have starched it (not likely but I could have!) so that the wave effect of the edging was highlighted.
Truth be told (hinted at in the "not likely" above) such runners are indeed gorgeous and invite and enhance lovely objects to be placed upon them like a handkerchief box or a collection of perfume bottles or a brush and comb set – but – they are avid dust catchers and a nuisance.
I am much happier using it as a scarf around my neck. The flat center part folds nicely on itself and the waves flow gently across the shoulders.
This was a 'rescue' at a garage sale and I am grateful to whoever created it many years ago; I suspect it is even older than I am.
So often people are selling their grandmother's handiwork – not really wanting to but not wishing to store it any longer – and the thought of having it take on a new life is usually quite comforting.This was a table runner that the grandmother of the woman selling had made. I feel very content when I wear the vest that it became.