This project started with a plain beige table runner and place mat set from Target. A little boring all on their own, they made the perfect background for my own custom table linens, which I embellished with fabric appliqués and sparkly trim.

This project started with a plain beige table runner and place mat set from Target. A little boring all on their own, they made the perfect background for my own custom table linens, which I embellished with fabric appliqués and sparkly trim.

When you stitch a smaller fabric shape onto a larger fabric surface that’s appliqué. I found a beautiful floral fabric and used the individual flower shapes for my appliqué motifs. Part of the fun is arranging everything on your base; it’s like painting with fabric.

Sewing Tools You Need:

• Sewing Machine (We recommend the Janome 6019QC)

Fabric and Other Supplies

• Purchased solid color table runner and matching place mats (one with texture is nice)
• 2/3 – 1 yd of medium weight fabric with large print (depending on how many place mats you want to make)
• 1¼ yds of beaded fringe or trim
• 1 yard of ribbon
• 2/3 – 1 yd of fusible webbing with paper backing
• Thread in colors to match fabrics and ribbon
• Fabric glue

Getting Started

1. Using the individual motifs in the fabric, plan out the desired pattern for each end of the table runner. You may choose to place fabric motifs in specific areas.
2. Cut around the motifs you want to use. Don’t worry about cutting on the lines at this point.
3. Once all of your motifs are independent of each other, arrange them on the fusible webbing and fuse following the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Peel the motifs away from the paper and trim around the designs more accurately.
5. Arrange the motifs at the bottom of each end of the table runner and press into place.

At Your Sewing Machine

1. Using a narrow zig zag or a satin stitch, sew all the way around every edge of the motifs.
2. Stitch your beaded fringe or trim to each end.
3. Stitch the ribbon over the less attractive edge of the fringe trim if desired to make a smoother edge.
4. Using fabric glue, tack some of the left over beads through out your design randomly.

Place Mats

• Construct place mats in the same manner as the table runner, but I recommend leaving off the trim and beads. Place mats are best left flat so you don’t have problems with wobbly plates or glasses.

Other machines suitable for this project include the Baby Lock Decorator’s Choice and the Bernina activa 230.