marie-madeline studio: Sew Simply: coaster cuteness!

November 24, 2008

Sew Simply: coaster cuteness!

And here is the second project we had in mind! So get ready, because these handy little coasters make lovely and frugal gifts.

the square coaster...

you will need::

--fabric scraps (at least 5" x 5")

--thin batting (we used warm & natural cotton batting, but less expensive polyester batting works just as well-- you can find it in your local large-chain craft store.)

--matching thread

--embroidery floss (in a complimentary color) & sharp needle with a large eye-- optional

***All seam allowances are 1/4"!

1. Start by creating your pattern, using a piece of cardboard (from a cereal box, the back of a notebook, or whatever). We made our pattern 4 1/2" square, so our coasters would finish at 4". Using your pattern and a pencil, trace a square onto the wrong side of your fabric. For each coaster, cut out 2 fabric squares and 1 batting square. (Round coaster tutorial coming soon!)

2. Layer your three pieces (front, back, & batting) in this order (very important!)

~back, with right side up

~front, with right side down

~batting

So it should look like this (left picture shows layers-- right picture is the "finished" stack)...

3. Pin through all three layers. Stitch around all edges, leaving a gap of about 2" in one side. Clip corners.

4. Turn your coaster right side out, fully extending the corners. Press carefully.

5. Slipstitch gap closed. Use your embroidery floss to make a decorative running stitch around the edges of your coaster, if desired. Or topstitch around the edge at 1/4", using your sewing machine.