How to make a Fabric Placemat

DIY placemats and Moroccan Chicken recipe

Emma loves to set the table, even if we are just having a sandwich she will lay knives and forks. At her old preschool, they always set the table with placemats and I like the idea.

Using a placemat is not a habit that I’m used to, but it does make a meal seem more civilized, so I thought it would be fun to make a couple inspired by a yummy Moroccan Chicken recipe.

I dug around in my stash and found this colouful paisley and gold threaded trim reminiscent of 1970’s Marrakesh. They are easy enough to make and are whipped up in no time at all.

Not into 70’s paisley? Choose a fabric to suit your decor.

You will need:

  • For each place mat cut the following to 17″x12.5″ (23.5x32cm)
  • Top fabric (printed cotton)
  • Cotton quilt batting (thin)
  • Corduroy or heavy weight fabric
  • Fancy trim (optional) 49″ (125cm)
  • General sewing supplies

How to:

1. Cut fabric to size.

2. Lay fabric in the following order. Batting, printed cotton facing up, backing fabric facing down.

placemat construction

3. Sew 1cm (1/2″) seam as marked by dotted line, leave opening at bottom for turning.

4. Clip corners.

assemble placemat part 2

5. Turn inside out and press. Hand stitch opening closed.

6. If you are adding trim, pin carefully paying attention to corners.

7. Stitch on trim to finish.

moroccan style placemat and chicken recipe

Time for dinner!

moroccan chicken and mint tea

These placemats look fancy, but they are great for everyday use. Just throw them in the washing machine when they get a little dirty.

Are you more of a placemat or tablecloth person?

2 Comments

  • Janet Skiles says:

    Now I have that song going through my brain….All aboard the Marrakesh espress! I love that material and I’m going to make the recipe!

  • Chelsea Wilson says:

    Gorgeous! Love a simple project that looks great and is practical 🙂 will have to get onto this one

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