NRC-student info

Table runner and/or place mats– The amount of fabric and any additional supplies needed for each project is always based on the pattern, size and the technique being used. I’m posting a few pictures here so you can compare and see some basic examples that may be helpful in choosing something you’d like to try. *if you see anything you’d like to try elsewhere please bring it to my attention.

(Just for future reference- There are numerous quilting techniques. Traditional block / patchwork, charm quilting, crazy quilting, crumb quilting, embroidered quilting, english paper piecing, machine paper piecing, rag quilts, trabunto, hand quilting, and applique.
There are also different quilting styles. Handquilting, domestic machine quilting, free motion quilting, quilt as you go and long arm quilting We will touch on these as we move forward. 

Table runners

IDEA—–Favoite Block table runners: if you have a quilt block you really like the look of why not make 3 or 4 blocks, place them together, add a border or a double border, sashing between blocks or no sashing, tasseles hanging from pointed ends or plain ends, etc, and create your one of a kind table runner. Remember, you are the designer. And while you’re at it make a few extra blocks and use them to sew some matching placemats. (see samples below-different ends – with sashing — without sashing — single border — without border)

Placemats

Placemats – Besides simply protecting your table placemats can change the entire look of your table and dining area. Depending on the design and fabric they can transform a common table into one that looks very classic, formal or festive. They can be made to be reversable, with pockets to hold the flatware, with matching napkins, matching coasters, or napkins rings. If you are very ambitious you can even make cloth flowers out of the same fabric and to use in a center piece. And if the placemats are for a special holiday how about matching hot pads, oven mitts, or a matching apron? You made the placemats and matching items how about using some scrap fabric- to make a few no sew quilted Christmas ornaments for each quest. The ideas are endless.

Here are pictures of 2 really fun placemats where the napkins you make are used as part of the design.

Ornament examples:

IDEA—-If you’re into memories of get togethers-birthdays, Thanksgiving dinners etc sew yourself a special tablecloth using fabric that is themed for the that occasion. For example balloons and cupcake fabric for use as a border around complimentary but plain colored fabric as a birthday party tablecloth. When your family/guests arrive have a basket with permanent pens on the table and ask that each guest write their names and best wishes along with the date on the table cloth. After the first celebration you have a table cloth that can be brought out year after year for old and new guests to sign. A family history tablecloth-an heirloom in the making.

Mug Rugs aka Snack Mats

What if you don’t need full sized placemats but you want a little something as a gift. How about Snack Mats or Mug Rugs. They are the same as placemats but smaller. Just the right size to hold hot cocoa, tea, or milk and cookies for Santa. I love these because since they don’t need to match like if you’re making a set I can make them as personal and individual I want. I can make one roll it up tie a ribbon around it and place it in a purchased teacup or mug along with some tea, cocoa or special mix coffee, A special handmade gift with a few extras.

I know this is a lot to read but hopefully you were able to pick up a little information for the future. If you have any questions please let me know. I’m looking forward to seeing you in the next class.