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Patchwork place mats are small quilted mats made by joining fabric pieces into a top, then layering it with backing and batting or fleece. There is no single standard size: the patterns cited here finish at either 14 × 12 inches or 12 × 16 inches, so choose a pattern by how it fits your plate and table setting.
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Choose a size and pattern
Compare the finished dimensions with the dishes and space at your table before cutting fabric. The measurements below belong to individual patterns, not a universal placemat standard.
| Pattern | Finished size | Piecing and layers | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| AllPeopleQuilt, “Patchwork Place Mats” | 14 × 12 inches, excluding rickrack | 42 2½-inch squares arranged in six rows for the top; backing is pieced separately from additional squares; medium-weight fusible batting or fleece | Pattern instructions |
| Tikki London, “Patchwork Placemat Sewing Pattern” | 12 × 16 inches | 48 assorted 2½-inch squares, plus a 13 × 17-inch backing piece and a 13 × 17-inch batting piece per mat | Paid digital pattern |
When deciding between patterns, consider the finished footprint, the number and size of the fabric pieces, whether the backing is pieced or whole, the specified inner layer, and the edge finish. The AllPeopleQuilt instructions make two mats; the Tikki London dimensions and material quantities are for one.
#1 Best Overall
Gather fabric and layers
- Fabric: The cited patterns use cotton. Cut the pieces to the pattern’s measurements; quilting-cotton fat quarters or precut cotton squares can be convenient ways to obtain fabric, but neither pattern requires buying fat quarters specifically.
- Batting or fleece: Both projects use an inner layer, but requirements differ. AllPeopleQuilt calls for medium-weight fusible batting or fleece; Tikki London specifies a 13 × 17-inch batting piece per placemat. Follow the chosen pattern rather than assuming one material or weight suits every design.
- Backing and finishing supplies: Check whether your pattern uses a pieced or single-piece backing and whether it calls for trim, thread, or other details. The AllPeopleQuilt design includes rickrack; its finished measurement excludes that trim.
For another construction reference, A Quilting Life’s charm-pack tutorial describes layering a pieced top, batting, and backing. Its materials and measurements should be treated as specific to that tutorial.
Piece and assemble the placemat
- Cut and arrange the top. Follow the chosen pattern’s piece count and layout. For example, AllPeopleQuilt uses 42 squares measuring 2½ inches, arranged in six rows.
- Sew the patchwork top. Join the fabric pieces according to the layout, keeping seams consistent so the edges align for layering.
- Prepare the backing and inner layer. Piece the backing if the pattern calls for it, and cut the batting or fleece to the specified size.
- Join the layers. The order and method depend on the pattern. AllPeopleQuilt adds batting or fleece and trim, places the top and backing right sides together, and sews around the edge while leaving an opening for turning.
- Finish the edges. Turn the mat through the opening, close it, and topstitch as directed. Other patterns may use a different edge finish or quilting sequence, so follow their instructions.
Add embroidery if you want a decorative version
Embroidery can be incorporated into a patchwork placemat, but it changes the project’s materials and ornamentation. Brother Educational Department’s embroidered project uses cotton fabrics, cotton batting, thread, and buttons; consult its project instructions for that specific variation.
Quick Recap
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- Sew it yourself home accessories offers 21 simple and beautiful projects to create with natural cotton
Rank #4
- Simplicity pattern includes everything needed for a well set table with instructions for (7) sewing templates. Patterns include chair cushions, tablecloths, place mats, runners, and napkins.
- Each dining accent piece comes in one size only. Runners and tablecloths have instructions for various lengths depending on table size.
- Table runner comes in two different styles with matching place mats. Tablecloth pattern can also be made to match these accent pieces.
- Washable fabrics such as cotton and broadcloth are recommended, as pieces will be used where food and drink is served.
- For patterned material, purchase extra to line up seams with stripes, polka dots, or other designs.
Rank #3
- Decorative Home Sewing Pattern: Create elegant table runners and placemats designed to enhance kitchen, dining, and home décor settings with handcrafted style.
- Includes Multiple Project Sizes: Pattern includes instructions for a 42” x 13.5” table runner and coordinating 23” x 13.5” placemats for a cohesive set.
- Ideal for Quilting & Home Décor Sewing: Perfect for quilting enthusiasts and sewists creating functional and decorative fabric projects for everyday use or gifting.
- Beginner-Friendly Pattern Layout: Simple instructions designed for confident beginners and experienced sewists working on quick home décor projects.
- Lightweight Printed Sewing Pattern: Compact printed pattern designed for easy use, storage, and reference during sewing and crafting projects.
Rank #2
- Made in United States
- Package length :10.0"
- Package width :7.0"
- Package height :1.0"
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