It has probably got a stiff interfacing in it. IF you can remove the tassels and re-sew them on after, I would go that route. Tassles don't take kindly to being washed.
Since this is a runner -- and you didn't specify if it is an antique, I'm assuming it is not. Even still, a gentle handwash is best. Soak it in a mixture of Oxyclean and a little detergent in warm/lukewarm water (soak for as long as needed - hours.) Do NOT twist or wring it. You can blot it between 2 white/light towels (damp) to work on any spots/stains that aren't coming out.
Once you're happy with the way it looks, rinse repeatedly with cool water -- again, do not wring. Blot it between 2 dry towels then re-shape it/block it flat to dry. You may have to use a pressing cloth to iron it stiff with a little spray starch ON THE UNDERSIDE -- NOT the topside.
After ironing, re-attach the tassles.
Good luck.
BW
Since this is a runner -- and you didn't specify if it is an antique, I'm assuming it is not. Even still, a gentle handwash is best. Soak it in a mixture of Oxyclean and a little detergent in warm/lukewarm water (soak for as long as needed - hours.) Do NOT twist or wring it. You can blot it between 2 white/light towels (damp) to work on any spots/stains that aren't coming out.
Once you're happy with the way it looks, rinse repeatedly with cool water -- again, do not wring. Blot it between 2 dry towels then re-shape it/block it flat to dry. You may have to use a pressing cloth to iron it stiff with a little spray starch ON THE UNDERSIDE -- NOT the topside.
After ironing, re-attach the tassles.
Good luck.
BW
