Idea #7: Make a set of colorful place mats for the new householders
Do you have any newlyweds on your shopping list this year? Or perhaps a recent graduate who is just setting up house in their first apartment? A set of quilted place mats would make a nice handmade gift!
The “Easy Pieced X” place mats are a good choice for a quick gift! I used a colorful leaf print and an array of coordinating solid fabrics to achieve a masculine look for my son’s dining table. I had enough fabric left to add a pair of matching hot pads, so he won’t need to use a kitchen towel to get hot pans out of his oven.
Start by making four of the pieced X blocks, six if you are making hot pads too. You’ll add the white band and the print triangles to frame the block. The pieced bands on the side are made with strips that are cut into segments and joined to the side of the place mat.
When the piecing is complete, add a lightweight batting and backing and then quilt as desired. Please note, if you are making hot pads, a layer of insul-brite will make them heat-proof!
Another fast and colorful option is a set of “Easy Pieced Leaves” place mats. The pattern also includes instructions for the matching runner. I used a set of 10″ batik squares (a layer cake), a beautiful harvest-themed print, and a beige blender with a burlap texture, along with a really dark brown blender for the binding and folded flanges.
Each place mat features a pieced leaf block, framed in bands of coordinating fabric and surrounded by a colorful print border. I added folded fabric flanges to enhance the design, and did my quilting with metallic copper thread to make it sparkle.
I hope that you’re inspired to create something wonderful for your favorite people!
Happy quilting,
Sharon
Ms P Designs USA 