I finished off a couple more of the smaller place mats over the weekend. It was just too cold to go anywhere, or do anything else. So I pinned and stitched a few things. I had some leftover cuts of the fusible interfacing that were just big enough for a 8 by 5 grid for the watercolor. That created a mat about 8'' by 12''---just a bit small, so I added a 2 '' strip of batik for an outer border. No binding on this one either, just a simple pillowcase style edge.
When I am not using binding on these small projects, I finally figured out how to get a better edge on them. Usually, you need to leave a 3 to 5 inch opening for turning. And no matter how I tried, my turning opening would gap/not lay flat/ never look just right. There had to be a better way.
I know I have talked about this, but for the life of me I can't find the older post, so I will just share the words for now.
I cut the backing fabric larger than needed, so I can cut it into 2 sections. Then I turn around and sew them back together---leaving a 3'' opening un-sewn. That is the opening for turning.
Then I can assemble the project placing the top and backing with right sides together and the batting on top. The batting is cut a tiny bit over the exact size needed. (So the batting is smaller than the fabric being sewn. I actually catch the smallest bit of batting in the seam, which holds it in place). I sew all 4 sides....completely. Turn it right side out thru the opening in the back and press.
The opening is then hand stitched closed. Projects just need a few lines of quilting to keep it in shape. I usually stitch around the outer edge about 3/8'' from the edge first. Quilt! As much or as little as you like.
As a note for those asking for patterns......I don't have patterns for sale. I have done up a couple of design guides for value placement. These are found at the bottom of the Patterns page ----look under the banner photo for it.
I also do not have kits for sale. But......here is a source for them. Go to WHIMS . They are a company with kits, pattern notions, and some watercolor fabrics.
Happy stitching.
7 comments:
Pretty mat! I love the framing. I like the way you do the pillow turn; the only way I've ever been happy when leaving an opening in the side to turn is when I've left a large seam allowance. I much prefer a seam in the back. ~Jeanne
You're always so inspiring Debbie. Your idea of a back opening is spot on.
Another great tutorial and many thanks for the link.
Brilliant idea for backing and turning Debbie!! I've always had the problem you mention so now I'm following your tutorial - thanks!
Great tutorial as always, and I like this way of finishing your placemats.
That sounds like a great way to turn a project without fussing with a tiny place on the edge. It seems the fabric always gets distorted a bit when I turn on an edge.
You may be the one that taught me that technique, and now I close my mini ornaments that same way!
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