Melding is placing sets & runs faceup on the table, while laying off is adding cards to runs and sets that you or your opponents have already placed down. Establishing sets and runs early in the game is osataa.kingne way to become proficient at melding and laying off cards. Players gain a competitive edge when they can lay down cards & lower their total score in this way. The possible worth of the cards that players are laying down should also be considered because it can affect their final score. Observing the cards that your opponents are laying down can help you become an expert at melding and laying off cards.