How to Sew Placemats for Beginners

Sewing your own placemats is a simple and rewarding project, perfect for beginners looking to practice basic sewing techniques. Not only can you customize the design to match your style and décor, but handmade placemats also add a personal and creative touch to your dining table.

This guide on how to sew placemats for beginners will walk you through the steps to create beautiful, functional placemats with ease, using minimal materials and straightforward instructions. Whether you’re new to sewing or just want a quick project, this tutorial is a great place to start.

Materials Needed

Fabric of Your Choice:

You can choose any type of fabric you like, such as cotton, linen, or even a fun patterned fabric. However, it’s important to make sure the fabric is durable and machine washable for easy maintenance.

Fusible Interfacing:

This will provide structure and stability to your placemat, making it more resistant to wear and tear.

Matching Thread:

A basic all-purpose thread in a color that matches your fabric.

Scissors:

Sharp scissors are essential for cutting your fabric accurately.

Sewing Machine:

While it’s possible to sew by hand, using a sewing machine will save you time and effort.

Choosing the Right Fabric

When selecting fabric for your placemat, consider the following factors:

Durability:

Choose a fabric that is strong and durable, as placemats are often subjected to spills and stains. Cotton or linen blends work well for this purpose.

Color and Pattern:

When choosing a color or pattern, consider the overall aesthetic of your dining table. If you have a neutral-colored tablecloth, you may want to choose a bold and colorful fabric for your placemats to add visual interest.

Texture:

The texture of the fabric can also play an important role in how well it holds up as a placemat. Avoid fabrics that are too thin or easily wrinkled, as they may not withstand frequent use and washing.

Needed Materials

Aside from the fabric, you will also need a few additional materials to make your own placemats. These may include scissors, measuring tape or ruler, fabric glue or sewing machine (if choosing to sew), and any decorative embellishments such as ribbon or buttons.

Measurements:

When making your own placemats, it’s important to measure and cut your fabric accurately for a polished finish. Measure your dining table or use standard placemat measurements (typically 12×18 inches) as a guide. Make sure to account for any hems or seam allowances when cutting your fabric.

Design:

The design of your placemats is entirely up to you! You can choose a solid color or patterned fabric, add decorative embellishments, or even personalize them with monograms or hand-painted designs. Consider the overall theme and aesthetic of your dining room when selecting a design for your placemats.

Creating Your Placemats:

Once you have all of your materials and measurements ready, it’s time to start creating your placemats! If sewing, use a sewing machine or hand stitch around the edges with a needle and thread using a simple straight stitch. If gluing, use a strong fabric glue to secure the edges and any embellishments.

7 Step-by-Step Guidelines on How to Sew Placemats for Beginners

Step 1: Choose Your Size

Begin by deciding on the size of your placemats. Standard placemats are typically 12×18 inches, but you can adjust the dimensions based on your preference or table size. Consider the space available on your dining table and the dishware you’ll be using.

Measure carefully and ensure all placemats will be uniform in size to create a cohesive and polished look. Accurate measurements are key to a well-balanced final product.

Step 2: Cut Your Fabric 

Once you have determined the size of your placemats, it’s time to cut your fabric. Select a fabric that suits the style and theme of your dining area—cotton or linen are great beginner-friendly options. Lay the fabric out flat on a clean surface and use a ruler or measuring tape to mark the dimensions of each placemat.

Be sure to use fabric chalk or another washable marking tool for precise lines. Carefully cut along your marked lines with sharp fabric scissors, ensuring clean edges. If you plan to make multiple placemats, stack the fabric and cut several layers at once to save time, but ensure accuracy throughout the process.

Step 3: Layer and Pin

Once your fabric pieces are cut to size, it’s time to layer and pin them together. If you are using two layers of fabric for reversible placemats, align the right sides of the fabric pieces (the printed or textured sides) facing inward.

Make sure the edges match up perfectly to ensure a polished final product. Use straight pins to secure the layers together, placing the pins about two inches apart around the edges. This will keep the fabric from shifting during sewing and help maintain clean, even seams. Take your time with this step to ensure precise alignment.

Step 4: Sew Around the Edges

Using a sewing machine, begin stitching around the edges of the placemat, leaving a 1/4 to 1/2 inch seam allowance. Start sewing near the center of one side rather than at a corner to make the next steps easier. Be sure to remove the pins as you go to avoid damaging your machine or misaligning the fabric.

Use a straight stitch for a clean finish, and backstitch at the starting point to secure the thread. Leave a small opening of about 3-4 inches along one side to allow for turning the placemat right-side out later. Once the edges are sewn, check to ensure the stitching is even and secure before moving on to the final steps.

Step 5: Trim and Clip Corners

After sewing the edges, carefully trim any excess fabric along the seam allowance to reduce bulk. Be sure not to cut into the stitching. Next, clip the corners at a diagonal, close to the stitches but not through them.

This will help reduce bulk in the corners when the placemat is turned right-side out, allowing for a cleaner and more polished finish. If needed, use pinking shears to prevent fraying along the edges. Take your time with this step to ensure neat results.

Step 6: Turn and Press 

Carefully turn the placemat right-side out through the opening you left earlier. Use a pointed tool, such as a chopstick or a blunt pencil, to gently push out the corners and ensure they are nice and sharp.

Once the placemat is fully turned, smooth out the edges with your hands. Lay it flat on your ironing board and press it with a hot iron to ensure all seams are neat and crisp. Take special care to fold in the raw edges of the opening and press them flat, as this will make the final stitching step easier and more precise.

Step 7: Topstitch to Finish

With your placemat pressed and the raw edges of the opening folded in neatly, it’s time to complete the project with a topstitch. Using a coordinating thread color, sew a straight stitch around the entire perimeter of the placemat, approximately 1/8 inch from the edge. This step will not only close the opening but also give your placemat a polished, professional finish. Be sure to sew slowly and evenly to maintain a consistent stitch line. Once finished, trim any loose threads, and your handmade placemat is ready to use!

Following these simple steps on how to sew placemats for beginners, you can easily create a set of beautiful, unique placemats for your home or to give as gifts. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics, patterns, and colors to match your personal style and decor.

Handmade items add a special touch to any home and are sure to impress your guests at dinner parties or gatherings. If you’re looking for a fun and beginner-friendly project, these easy placemats to sew free pattern options are perfect for adding a handmade touch to your table decor.

Optional Decorative Touches

To elevate your handmade placemats even further, consider adding some decorative touches for a personalized and polished look. One popular option is to sew a decorative trim, such as lace, rickrack, or pom-pom edging, along the borders of the placemats. You could also use embroidery to add custom designs, monograms, or floral patterns that complement your fabric choice.

For a more textured effect, try quilting the placemats by stitching simple patterns or shapes across the surface. If you prefer a modern touch, use fabric paint or stencils to create bold geometric prints. These embellishments not only enhance the appearance of your placemats but also make them truly unique and tailored to your taste.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance of your handmade placemats will ensure they stay beautiful and functional for years to come. Start by checking the care instructions for the fabric you used, as some materials may require gentle washing or specific cleaning methods. For most cotton or polyester fabrics, machine washing on a gentle cycle with cold water is safe. To prevent fraying, ensure all edges are securely stitched before washing.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the fabric or fade the colors. After washing, air-dry the placemats to maintain their shape, or use a low-heat setting if ironing is necessary. Store them flat to prevent creases, and your handmade placemats will remain a delightful addition to your table setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I Use a Sewing Machine to Make Placemats?

Yes, using a sewing machine can help create straight and even stitches for your placemats. A sewing machine is recommended when working with thicker fabrics or multiple layers. However, you can also sew placemats by hand if desired.

Q2: How Do I Choose the Right Fabric for Placemats?

When selecting fabric for your placemats, it is important to consider not only the design and color but also the durability and washability of the fabric. Cotton and linen are popular choices as they are both durable and easy to clean. Avoid using delicate or easily wrinkled fabrics.

Q3: Can I Personalize My Placemats?

Absolutely! You can add personal touches to your handmade placemats by embroidering names or monograms, adding decorative trims, or incorporating fabric with personalized designs. You can also use different fabrics for each placemat to create a unique set.

Conclusion

Creating your own placemats is a rewarding way to bring both functionality and personal style to your dining table. By carefully selecting durable and attractive fabrics and incorporating personalized elements, you can craft placemats that are not only practical but also meaningful.

Whether you aim for simplicity or intricate designs, handmade placemats can add a warm and unique touch to any meal setting. Thanks for reading this article on how to sew placemats for beginners