How to Make Double Dyed Placemats

Charming, easy to make placemats bring a burst of color to your table.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• scissors
• white, cotton fabric
• cold water hand dye in 3 blending colors
• large dye bath
• rubber gloves
• clothes pins
• iron
• ribbon
• dressmakers pins
• needle
• basting thread
• embroidery floss

1. Cut the fabric to the desired size for the placemats. Prepare the first color in the dye bath and dampen the fabric with water.

2. Holding the fabric lengthwise, dip each rectangle into the dye, no more than two thirds into the bath. When the fabric is the desired color, remove it and rinse it in cold water until the water runs clear.

3. Prepare the second dye bath and while the fabric is still damp, dip each one into the bath so that the undyed area is submerged. Prepare the third dye bath.

4. Dip each mat widthways into the bath so that half of it is submerged. Clip the fabric to the edge of the bath until you reach the desired shades.

5. Wash the mats using a mild detergent and rinse until the water runs clear. Iron while damp.

6. Trim the edges of each mat. Press ribbon in half lengthways and pin around the outside of the mat. Baste in place. Using embroidery thread, work a blanket stitch through the ribbon to hold it in place. Remove the basting stitches.