How to Apply Binding to a Placemat

Through the creative process of arts and crafts you can personalize almost anything in your house. Even something as mundane as a placemat can become something decorative and special to you and your family.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sewing machine
• Binding
• Placemat
• Pins

1. Decide on which fabrics you would like to use. Think about colors, textures and designs that will really complement the placemat's surroundings. If you are making this placemat for someone specific, keep in mind his tastes and personal interests.

2. Cut your fabric into strips no less than two inches wide. You can make your bindings almost any size you want, but any less than two inches wide becomes harder to sew.

3. Inspect both pieces of material to make sure you center the binding and the placemat material of your choice. You could be sprucing up an old placemat or creating an entirely brand new one.

4. Pin the binding onto the placemat to make it easier to stitch, then sew the binding to the placemat with your sewing machine. The fabric should be sewn on about 1/2 inch from the edge of the mat.

5. Check your work once you have sewn a few stitches to make sure you are sewing it like you want. If you are, continue sewing the entire backing to the placemat.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy binding in your favorite colors and styles at fabric stores. Get creative with colors for the binding. You can even make your own binding with a special foot for your sewing machine.