Quilted mat tutorial

The other day I was putting up some decorations....and as usual I was wishing I had some mats to put under decor and to cover up a plain shelf. I also have a piano...with a little damage to the top....where I put more decor. I had it. I wanted something small enough so it could fit on a shelf nicely. Placemats are to large.....coasters way too small. This mat is just right....9 3/4" x 8".

Isn't it sweet! I grabbed 5 charm squares....from those cool packs of fabric at the quilt stores. They usually come in delightful coordinating fabrics. From each square I cut 4: 2" squares.

This is my pack of charms squares (5"x 5")...many mats could be made from these. I lined the 2" squares up...4 across...and 5 down...alternating colors. I sewed them together with a 1/4" seam allowance.

I added 1 1/2" muslin strips to all the sides. I cut a backing from muslin....and sewed front to back with right sides together. I clipped corners and turned inside out. Iron well. Stitch opening closed. Place plenty of pins on the mini quilt and sew/quilt around the squares....using a larger stitch on your sewing machine. I stitched in the ditch of each square.
I also stitched on the edge of the mat.

This makes great snack mats and so wonderful around the house....protecting tables.

I hope you make up a mat soon...they are handy!
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