Estimated reading time: 3 min

Sew a placemat with a free sewing pattern

14.07.2020 by Sabine Schmidt

What do I need for that?

Sew a retro-look placemat

Freebook · PDF
To the sewing pattern →

Time expenditure: approx. 1 hour

Materials & Details

Chalk marker^*

Disappearing marker^*

Iron rest^*

A sturdy cotton fabric works best for this project.

Woven cotton

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H630

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*

Woven cotton is a classic, non-stretch cotton fabric. It's comfortable to wear, relatively lightweight and at the same time nicely stable.

The surface is usually smooth or slightly matte and feels natural and soft. Depending on the quality, it can be thinner for light clothing or a little firmer for sturdier projects.

Woven cotton is really easy to sew: it hardly slips, is easy to cut and is great for beginners too.

It's perfect for blouses, shirts, dresses, skirts or for decor such as cushions, pouches and patchwork.

In short: simple, versatile and a true all-rounder for lots of sewing ideas

Home decor fabrics^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H250

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Home decor fabrics are fabrics intended mainly for home decoration – anything that should look beautiful and be a little hard-wearing. They're usually woven a little more firmly than dress fabrics and therefore keep their shape nicely.

Depending on the type, home decor fabrics can be lightweight or really sturdy. They often have great patterns, textures or colours that instantly catch the eye.

They're usually straightforward to sew because they keep their shape well and are easy to work neatly. Perfect for sewing projects where a lot of stretch isn't needed.

Home decor fabrics are ideal for cushions, curtains, tablecloths, chair covers or bags.

In short: stable, decorative and perfect for everything that makes your home more beautiful.

Canvas^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H200

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Canvas is a very sturdy, densely woven fabric that feels really stable. It's usually made of cotton or a cotton blend and is made to withstand quite a lot.

The surface is rather firm and sometimes slightly rough, but can be a little smoother depending on the finish. Canvas has hardly any stretch, but keeps its shape nicely.

Sewing it can take some effort because it's thick and stable – but in return you get a very long-lasting result. Fraying is easy to keep under control with the right technique.

Canvas is perfect for bags, backpacks, seat cushions, decor or even sturdy jackets.

In short: strong, long-lasting and ideal for anything that needs to be really stable.

For a puffer bag you can basically use any non-stretch fabrics – so there are hardly any limits to your creativity.

But keep in mind: The thinner the outer fabric, the stronger the puffer effect.

Especially practical are water-repellent, hard-wearing materials, because they reliably protect the polyester hollow-fibre balls from moisture. The filling fibres are washable, but the bag would become very heavy to carry if it is exposed to moisture, and there is a risk that it will not return to its original shape after drying.

Oxford fabric^*

Machine:: Straight stitchBackstitch function
Iron-on patch:: Style-Vil and Style-Vil fix

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Oxford fabric is a sturdy yet pleasantly soft fabric with a slightly grainy, textured surface. It has a special weave that makes it stable without feeling too stiff.

Typical of Oxford: it has no stretch, holds its shape well and still feels pleasant on the skin. It's often made from synthetic fibres or blends.

It's pretty straightforward to sew because it doesn't slip and is easy to cut.

Oxford fabric is perfect for outdoor ideas, but also for bags or light decor projects.

In short: stable, versatile and an undemanding fabric for everyday use and DIY.

coated cotton^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H640

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*

Coated cotton is a cotton fabric with a smooth, water-repellent surface. It feels a bit like oilcloth but is often softer and more flexible.

The fabric is pretty sturdy and wipes clean easily – perfect for when something gets spilled. On the inside you have the pleasant cotton, on the outside the coating protects against moisture and dirt.

Sewing it sometimes takes a little patience because the surface can stick slightly. With the right tricks, though, it works well.

Coated cotton is ideal for bags, backpacks, tablecloths or anything that has to withstand everyday use.

In short: practical, easy care and perfect for projects that can take a beating.

Rain jacket fabric^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Style-Vil and Style-Vil fix

further information

Needle:: Microtex needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Rain jacket fabric is a functional fabric made specifically to keep you dry. It's usually water-repellent or even waterproof and often protects against wind as well.

Depending on the type, the surface feels smooth or slightly rubberised, and the inside is sometimes soft or lightly coated. The fabric is usually lightweight yet hard-wearing.

It can be a little slippery when sewing, and pins often leave holes – so it's better to work with clips. Special needles or a suitable presser foot can also help.

Rain jacket fabric is of course perfect for jackets, coats, rain trousers or practical outdoor accessories.

In short: lightweight, weatherproof and your reliable companion in the rain.

Softshell^*

Machine:: Straight stitchBackstitch function
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H200

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Softshell is a functional outdoor fabric that keeps out wind and light rain well while still staying breathable. It is exactly this combination that makes it so popular for outdoor wear.

Softshell usually has a smooth, sturdy outer surface and a soft, often fleece-like inner layer. This makes it pleasantly warm without being too thick.

The fabric is slightly stretchy or at least flexible, so it moves well with you – perfect for activewear.

It is relatively easy to sew but can be a bit thick. On the plus side, it hardly frays and is easy to work with.

Softshell is ideal for jackets, trousers, kids' clothing or outdoor pieces for wind and weather.

In short: weatherproof, comfortable and perfect for everything out and about.

Faux leather^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H200

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Faux leather is a synthetic material that looks very similar to real leather but is completely vegan. It usually has a smooth or slightly textured surface and often looks somewhat glossy or matte – depending on the finish.

The fabric is relatively firm but still flexible. It is sturdy, easy care and simply wipes clean, which makes it super practical.

Sewing it takes a little patience, because faux leather does not glide quite as well and needle holes can remain visible. A stronger needle helps a lot here.

Faux leather is perfect for bags, backpacks, pouches, home decor or statement clothing.

In short: easy care, modern and a stylish alternative to real leather.

Ripstop^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Decovil I light

further information

Needle:: Microtex needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Ripstop is a lightweight but really tough fabric with a special weave. You can often recognise it by its fine grid pattern – this stops small tears from simply spreading further.

The fabric usually feels smooth and a little “technical”, is often water-repellent and pleasantly lightweight. So it's perfect when weight and durability matter.

Ripstop can be a bit slippery when sewing, but with a little patience it's easy to work with.

It's ideal for outdoor projects such as jackets, backpacks, tents or sportswear.

In short: lightweight, tear-resistant and made for everything that has to withstand the outdoors.

Oilskin^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Style-Vil and Style-Vil fix

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Show moreShow less

Oilskin is a sturdy fabric with a waxed or oiled surface that makes it water-repellent. It feels slightly waxy and often has a cool, slightly matte look.

Typical of oilskin: it's pretty stable but still flexible. Over time it develops a beautiful, slightly “worn-in” look – that's all part of it and makes the fabric special.

Sewing it takes a little patience because the surface doesn't glide quite as smoothly under the presser foot. It doesn't like pins much either – better to work with clips.

Oilskin is perfect for bags, backpacks, jackets or anything that's allowed to get wet outdoors.

In short: weatherproof, sturdy and with a really cool outdoor character.

Nylon & outdoor fabrics^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Style-Vil and Style-Vil fix

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Nylon fabrics and outdoor fabrics are true everyday heroes when it comes to function. They're usually lightweight, very tough and often water-repellent or even waterproof – perfect for the outdoors.

Nylon feels rather smooth and slightly cool, yet it's extremely tear-resistant and hard-wearing. Outdoor fabrics go one step further: they're often specially coated or treated to withstand wind, rain and dirt.

They can be a little slippery when sewing, but with a bit of patience it works well. In return, you get really long-lasting projects in the end.

They're ideal for jackets, rainwear, backpacks, bags or anything that has to perform in wind and weather.

In short: lightweight, weatherproof and made for outdoor adventures.

Polyester fabrics^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H640

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Polyester fabrics are synthetic fabrics made from plastic fibres. They're lightweight, easy-care and really tough in everyday use.

They're known for hardly creasing and drying quickly. They also hold their shape well and barely shrink in the wash.

Depending on the finish, polyester fabrics can look very different – from smooth and slightly shiny to soft and matte. They're often blended with other fibres to make them more comfortable.

They're usually straightforward to sew but can sometimes be a little slippery. In return, they're very durable and colourfast.

They're perfect for clothing, sportswear, outdoor pieces, but also for decor and accessories.

In short: practical, easy-care and a true all-rounder for many projects.

Canvas^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H200

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Canvas is a very sturdy, densely woven fabric that feels really stable. It's usually made of cotton or a cotton blend and is made to withstand quite a lot.

The surface is rather firm and sometimes slightly rough, but can be a little smoother depending on the finish. Canvas has hardly any stretch, but keeps its shape nicely.

Sewing it can take some effort because it's thick and stable – but in return you get a very long-lasting result. Fraying is easy to keep under control with the right technique.

Canvas is perfect for bags, backpacks, seat cushions, decor or even sturdy jackets.

In short: strong, long-lasting and ideal for anything that needs to be really stable.

Gabardine^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H410

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Gabardine is a firm, densely woven fabric with a slightly diagonal rib texture. It looks smooth and neat, yet it's really tough and long-lasting.

Typical of gabardine: it has a beautiful, slightly elegant drape and still keeps its shape. It's often made from cotton or blends.

It's easy to work with when sewing because it's stable and doesn't lose its shape easily. It frays only a little, which makes neat edges possible.

Gabardine is perfect for bags, trousers, skirts, blazers or coats – anything that should look smart and be hard-wearing at the same time.

In short: stable, classy and a reliable fabric for classic sewing projects.

Jeans fabrics/denim^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline G770

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Denim is basically the classic jeans fabric – sturdy, tightly woven and really hard-wearing. Its slightly diagonal texture is typical, often with the blue-dyed look that everyone instantly associates with jeans.

The fabric is rather firm and a bit stiff at first, but softens over time and moulds itself better and better. That is exactly what makes denim so durable and popular.

It needs a bit more power when sewing – a strong needle and a sturdy machine help here. In return, the result can really take a lot.

Denim is perfect for jeans, jackets, bags or anything that has to stand up to everyday life.

In short: strong, timeless and a true everyday hero on the fabric shelf.

Home decor fabrics^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H250

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Depending on the type, home decor fabrics can be lightweight or really sturdy. They often have great patterns, textures or colours that instantly catch the eye.

They're usually straightforward to sew because they keep their shape well and are easy to work neatly. Perfect for sewing projects where a lot of stretch isn't needed.

Home decor fabrics are ideal for cushions, curtains, tablecloths, chair covers or bags.

In short: stable, decorative and perfect for everything that makes your home more beautiful.

Woven cotton

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H630

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*

Woven cotton is a classic, non-stretch cotton fabric. It's comfortable to wear, relatively lightweight and at the same time nicely stable.

The surface is usually smooth or slightly matte and feels natural and soft. Depending on the quality, it can be thinner for light clothing or a little firmer for sturdier projects.

Woven cotton is really easy to sew: it hardly slips, is easy to cut and is great for beginners too.

It's perfect for blouses, shirts, dresses, skirts or for decor such as cushions, pouches and patchwork.

In short: simple, versatile and a true all-rounder for lots of sewing ideas

Canvas^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H200

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Canvas is a very sturdy, densely woven fabric that feels really stable. It's usually made of cotton or a cotton blend and is made to withstand quite a lot.

The surface is rather firm and sometimes slightly rough, but can be a little smoother depending on the finish. Canvas has hardly any stretch, but keeps its shape nicely.

Sewing it can take some effort because it's thick and stable – but in return you get a very long-lasting result. Fraying is easy to keep under control with the right technique.

Canvas is perfect for bags, backpacks, seat cushions, decor or even sturdy jackets.

In short: strong, long-lasting and ideal for anything that needs to be really stable.

Waffle piqué^*

Machine:: Zigzag stitchBackstitch functionStraight stitch

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Waffle piqué is a fabric with a typical waffle-like texture – small, even “diamonds” that give it its name. This texture makes the fabric nice and airy and absorbent at the same time.

It is usually made of cotton, feels pleasantly soft and has a slightly lofty feel. Thanks to the texture, it looks cosy and a little refined at the same time.

Waffle piqué is usually easy to sew but can have a bit more volume – in return it is easy to work with and frays little.

It is perfect for towels, bathrobes, baby blankets, light throws or home decor.

In short: textured, absorbent and perfect for anything that should look cosy and natural.

Corduroy fabrics^*

Machine:: Zigzag stitchOverlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H200

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Corduroy is a sturdy fabric with a very typical ribbed texture. These fine or wider stripes give it its unmistakable, slightly retro look.

The fabric feels soft and textured at the same time. It is warm, comfortable to wear and really durable.

Depending on the type, corduroy comes fine (needlecord) or coarse with wide ribs – both have their own charm.

Corduroy is usually easy to sew; just keep an eye on the nap direction of the ribs.

It is perfect for trousers, skirts, jackets, dresses or bags.

In short: cosy, sturdy and a true classic with vintage flair.

Woven fabrics^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitchOverlock seam
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline G770

further information

Needle:: Universal needle, size 60–70, walking foot
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Woven fabrics are made from two sets of threads: warp threads and weft threads, which are interlaced crosswise. As a result, they usually have no stretch and hold their shape well.

Depending on the material and weave, they can look very different – from light and airy to firm and sturdy. That is exactly what makes them so versatile.

Woven fabrics are usually easy to sew because they cut well and keep their shape. The only thing is that they can fray a little at the edges.

They are perfect for clothing such as blouses, shirts, skirts and dresses, but also for bags, home decor and many other projects.

In short: classic, versatile and the basis for lots and lots of sewing ideas.

Jeans fabrics/denim^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline G770

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

The fabric is rather firm and a bit stiff at first, but softens over time and moulds itself better and better. That is exactly what makes denim so durable and popular.

It needs a bit more power when sewing – a strong needle and a sturdy machine help here. In return, the result can really take a lot.

Denim is perfect for jeans, jackets, bags or anything that has to stand up to everyday life.

In short: strong, timeless and a true everyday hero on the fabric shelf.

Linen^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Linen is a natural fabric with a slightly firm, textured feel. At first it often feels a bit rough, but it gets softer with every wash and becomes really lovely on the skin.

Typical of linen: it is super airy and breathable – perfect for warm days. The fabric looks rather loose and relaxed, often has a slightly irregular appearance, and that is exactly what gives it its charm.

Linen creases pretty quickly, but that is simply part of it and even looks intentional. It is ideal for airy clothing such as dresses, blouses, trousers or shirts.

In short: natural, cooling and wonderfully easy-going with a casual look.

Muslin fabrics^*

Machine:: Zigzag stitchOverlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H410

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Muslin is a very light, loosely woven cotton fabric. It feels super soft and has that typical slightly crinkled, “creased” surface – which is intentional and gives it its charm.

The fabric is very breathable, which makes it perfect for warm days. It drapes loosely and always looks a little casual and easy-going.

Muslin is usually easy to sew because it is not slippery. It can fray a little, though, so finishing the edges neatly is worth it.

It is perfect for baby blankets, scarves, light dresses, blouses or summery clothing.

In short: airy, soft and ideal for relaxed, natural looks.

Patchwork fabrics^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Iron-on patch:: Vlieseline H200

further information

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Yarn:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Patchwork fabrics are usually fine woven cottons that are perfect for combining. They are fairly light, smooth and have no stretch – so you can cut them very precisely and sew them neatly.

The many colourful prints and designs that are perfectly coordinated are typical. That is exactly what makes them ideal for creative projects where you want to mix different fabrics.

Patchwork fabrics are totally easy to sew and really rewarding for beginners too, because they hardly distort and keep their shape well.

They are of course perfect for patchwork quilts, but also for bags, cushions or small sewing projects.

In short: light, precise and made for creative combining.

Links marked with * are affiliate links: If you make a purchase through them, we receive a small commission. The price remains the same for you.

Sew a placemat: A great idea for a quick makeover for your dining table. The free pattern comes in 2 variations with matching mug rugs.

The most important things at a glance

You can download the pattern for the placemats and matching mug rugs directly in this blog post
They are sewn using woven fabrics, such as cotton, linen, canvas, etc.
Also great for upcycling old jeans or retro fabrics
The placemat is a perfect beginner project
Instead of turning them inside out, you can also beautifully bind the placemat with bias tape

A set of chic retro-style placemats is just the thing to give your breakfast table a fresh look. These pretty placemats not only look good enough to eat, they are also sewn in no time. You can simply sew them right sides together, turn them, and topstitch them.

Alternatively, you can also bind them with bias tape. The bias tape adds stability and is an extra eye-catcher. If, like me, you like mixing color-coordinated fabrics, you can use a uniform bias tape as a recurring element.

By the way, you can make your own bias tape in just a few simple steps. You can also find a detailed tutorial for DIY bias tape here on SewSimple.

There is a pattern template for a mug rug to match each placemat shape. :)

Sew a placemat: Which fabrics are suitable?

All non-stretchy fabrics are suitable, such as:

The firmer the fabric, the more body your placemats will have.

By the way, expressive prints on woven cotton look very nice.^*

Download: Pattern

Download the pattern for both placemat shapes as well as for the mug rugs in our freebie section:

Note: The pattern does not include a seam allowance.

Essential accessories for sewing the placemat

50 cm non-stretchy fabrics, e.g., cotton, denim, canvas
50 cm soy^* or cotton batting
Bias tape if needed
Rotary cutter^*
Patchwork ruler^*
Pins^*
Scissors^*
Sewing machine^*

Note on the fabrics used: I found all these beautiful fabric scraps at Idee.Creativmarkt. :)

Variation: Sew a placemat with bias tape

You can also bind the placemat with bias tape. Especially if you are using soft batting, such as soy or cotton batting, it occasionally happens that the placemat bulges a little after binding.

This won't happen if you topstitch the set a few times before binding it.

What else helps:

Trimming the seam allowance after attaching the bias tape to the back

Notching the edge of the bias tape that runs along the fabric edge

When topstitching from the top, guide the bias tape along the fabric edge with your finger

Let the bias tape overlap generously at the end and sew it on without tension.

Using a large-patterned fabric that can be divided into different color sections makes a set of placemats look harmonious without appearing boring.

Happy simple sewing,

Your Sabine

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I download the pattern?

The free pattern for two placemat variations with matching mug rugs can be found in the SewSimple blog post.

Can I also bind the placemat with bias tape?

Very well, actually. The bias tape stabilizes the placemat and makes it an additional eye-catcher. You can also use it as a connecting element if you want to mix different fabrics.

Can I also sew the placemat with iron-on interfacing?

That is also possible. However, you should make sure to cut the iron-on interfacing 1 cm smaller all around than the fabric pieces. This keeps the seam nicely flexible and easy to shape.

Links marked with * are affiliate links: If you make a purchase through them, we receive a small commission. The price remains the same for you.

Sew a retro-look placemat

In this photo tutorial I'll show you step by step how to sew the placemat from top and bottom fabric plus a wadding layer.

Step

Cut the pattern pieces

Cut two pattern pieces from main fabric and backing fabric. Add 1 cm seam allowance.
Step

Cut the wadding

Cut 1 pattern piece from wadding without seam allowance.
Step

Pattern pieces at a glance

These are the pattern pieces you need at a glance.
Step

Layer the fabrics

Place the main fabric right side up. Place the backing fabric right side down on top.
Step

Add the wadding and pin

Place the wadding on top and pin everything together.
Step

Sew the placemat together

Sew around the placemat with a straight stitch and a seam allowance of 1 cm. Leave a turning gap of approx. 8 cm open on the straight back edge.
Step

Trim the seam allowance

Trim the seam allowance with pinking shears or a wave blade. That way the seam will lie nice and flat later.
Step

Press the turning gap

Fold the turning gap over by 1 cm. Press it.
Step

Turn the placemat

Turn the placemat right side out and shape the seams neatly.

My tip

You can press the seams by pushing the handle of a wooden spoon against them from the inside.
Step

Topstitch the placemat

Press the placemat. Edgestitch the placemat with a straight stitch, closing the turning gap as you go.
Step

Done!

Done. And now: make more of them!

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About the author

Sabine

I come from Siegen-Wittgenstein, where I spent my childhood breaking in cows, jumping off haystacks and scraping a D- in needlework class.

Today, being creative feels like indescribable happiness to me – and it grows even more when I can share it with others. Since 2016 I have been celebrating my passion for sewing on this blog, and I love that sewing connects so many people.

Sew a placemat with a free sewing pattern

Sew a placemat: Which fabrics are suitable?

Download: Pattern

Essential accessories for sewing the placemat

Variation: Sew a placemat with bias tape

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I download the pattern?

Can I also bind the placemat with bias tape?

Can I also sew the placemat with iron-on interfacing?

Sew a retro-look placemat

Cut the pattern pieces

Cut the wadding

Pattern pieces at a glance

Layer the fabrics

Add the wadding and pin

Sew the placemat together

Trim the seam allowance

Press the turning gap

Turn the placemat

Topstitch the placemat

Done!

Comments

Sabine