How to Sew Fabric Placemats

- Fabric

- Scissors or a rotary cutter

- Cutting ruler or cutting mat

- Sewing machine

- All-purpose thread

- Pins

- Iron

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fabric

- Wash, dry, and iron the fabric. This reduces the chances of shrinkage and ironing after sewing.

Step 2: Cut Fabric Pieces

- Decide on the desired size of your placemats. They should be slightly larger than the plates they will be used for, allowing for seam allowances.

- Cut the fabric into two pieces of equal size.

Step 3: Create Hemmed Edges

- Fold the edges of each fabric piece twice, so it is folded to the wrong side of the fabric. Crease the folds with your fingers.

- Press the folded hems to create sharp creases.

- Stitch along the hemline close to the fold to secure the hem. Do this on all four edges.

Step 4: Pin the Fabric Pieces

- Place the two fabric pieces with right sides facing each other.

- Pin all around the edges to hold the layers in place, leaving a small opening for turning.

Step 5: Stitch the Placemat

- Sew around three sides of the placemat, using a seam allowance of 1/4 inch.

- Leave the fourth side open for turning.

Step 6: Trim Excess Fabric

- Trim any excess fabric close to the stitched line, leaving about 1/4 inch.

- Trim off the corners diagonally, about 1/4 inch from the stitching. This will help to reduce bulk at the corners when you turn the placemat.

Step 7: Turn the Placemat

- Carefully turn the placemat right side out through the opening you left.

- Use a point turner or other blunt object to push out the corners and smooth the curves.

Step 8: Close the Opening

- Pin the opening closed, folding in the raw edges.

- Stitch the opening closed, using a hand-sewing method like a slip stitch or ladder stitch.

Step 9: Top-Stitch the Placemat

- For added durability and to create a decorative element, top-stitch around the edges of the placemat close to the hem.

Your reversible fabric placemats are ready to use! You can customize the fabric and size to your preference, and even experiment with decorative stitches or trims to create unique variations.