Floral Table Mats with Geranium Embroidery

For this set of matching, summer-themed table mats, we used the Geranium and Pelargonium designs for the large hoop (5" x 7", or 130 x 180 mm).

The finished size of each table mat is about 16 1/2" x 20 1/2".

Besides embroidery thread (either polyester or rayon), you will need

• medium-weight iron-on cut-away stabilizer or interfacing,
• light-colored fabric for the central embroidered part,
• fabric for the top and back of the mat,
• batting,
• quilting threads in colors to match your fabrics,,
• graphic pencil and sharp scissors,
• quilter's ruler and rotary cutter,
• fabric glue (optional, but very helpful).

Emboridery

Embroider the Geranium designs on light-colored fabric. You will need one stitch-out per table-mat. Use medium-weight cut-away stabilizer.

After the embroidery is finished, using a ruler and a rotary cutter, trim the stitch-outs to 15" x 19" rectangles.

Cut away the excess stabilizer around the embroidery.
Set the stitch-outs aside for the time being.

Sewing the Table Topper

Download the template file. To open and print the template, which is a PDF file, you will need Adobe Reader or a similar program. The program is free to download and install.

Template. Click to download the PDF file.

Print out the template.

Stabilize the fabric for the top with iron-on cut-away stabilizer or interfacing.

Lay the piece out with the stabilizer facing up. Position your template over the stabilizer and trace the template with a pencil.

With a pair of sharp scissors, cut out the central part 1/2" from the inner line.

Cut notches into the seam allowance from the edge to the inner line.

Fold the notched fabric back, press with steam. Optional: using fabric glue, adhere the notches to the stabilizer. Leave to dry.

Spread the batting on the working table and cover with the fabric for the backing, face up. Cover with the working piece, face down.

Pin all the layers together.

On your sewing machine, topstitch along the outer line of the mat.

Cut away excess fabric and batting along the outer line, leaving about 1/4" of seam allowance.

Then cut away the batting under the seam allowance close to the stitches.
Cut notches in the seam allowance.

Turn the working piece right side out and lay flat.

Press the seams, if needed.

Top-stitch 1/4" (6 mm) from the outer edge.

Quilting and Finishing:

Insert the central part with embroidery into the "frame".

Pin the edges.

On your sewing machine, topstitch along the inner line of the frame. Then quilt the whole piece (optional).

Your table mat is ready. Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Happy Stitching!

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