Materials:
- Fabric of your choice (ensure it's suitable for placemats)
- Coordinating thread
- Scissors or a rotary cutter
- Measuring tape
- Round template or a plate
- Fabric marker
- Sewing needle or sewing machine
- Iron (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Measure and Cut the Fabric
- Decide on the size of your placemats. Typically, they should be about 12-15 inches in diameter for round tables.
- Cut out two circular pieces of fabric for each placemat using your template or a plate as a guide. Make sure to add an extra 1 inch around the edges for seam allowances.
Step 2: Mark the Center
- Use a fabric marker to mark the center point on each fabric circle. This will help you align the pieces correctly while sewing.
Step 3: Pin the Fabric Circles
- Place the two fabric circles right sides together, aligning the center marks. Pin the edges of the fabric circles together all the way around, leaving a small opening for turning.
Step 4: Sew the Fabric
- Using a sewing machine or a hand sewing needle, stitch around the pinned edges of the fabric circles, leaving the small opening unsewn. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the stitching to secure the seams.
Step 5: Turn the Placemat Right Side Out
- Carefully turn the placemat right side out through the opening you left. Use a point turner or a chopstick to help push out the corners.
Step 6: Press the Placemat (Optional)
- If desired, use an iron set to a medium heat to press the placemat flat and remove any wrinkles.
Step 7: Stitch the Opening Closed
- Hand stitch the small opening closed using a ladder stitch or a whip stitch.
Step 8: Repeat for Additional Placemats
- Repeat the process for as many placemats as you need.
Tips:
- For a more professional look, you can use a serger to finish the edges of the fabric circles before constructing the placemats.
- If you don't have a round template, you can use a dinner plate or a round object to trace the shape onto the fabric.
- Add a fusible interfacing to the back of the fabric for extra structure and stability.
- Consider using different fabrics and patterns to create unique and coordinating placemats for your round table.
Your handmade round table placemats are now ready to enhance the beauty of your dining experience!