Things You'll Need
Fabric
Measuring tape
Sewing machine
Iron-on hem tape
Iron
Trim sold by-the-yard (optional)
Change the look of a room by creating a custom table topper. You can use almost any fabric you like and you have the option of embellishing with trims. Plain or fancy, sewing a table topper is a quick and satisfying project. Here are instructions for making three different table toppers. The first one is seamless, made from a large fabric square. The second topper has a center seam and is suitable for a larger table. The third topper can be made for any size table and, because it is fitted, has a more formal, finished look.
Simple Seamless Topper
Step 1
Choose a fabric that drapes well. Fabrics are usually available in widths of 44/45 inches or 60 inches. The fabric you select will determine the size of the square.
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Step 2
Cut the fabric so that the length is equal to the width, then hem the topper using iron-on hem tape, following manufacturer's directions. You can also create a hem by finishing the raw edge of the fabric with your favorite method, then folding under the finished edge. Secure the folded hem with machine topstitching or blind hem stitch.
Step 3
Trim the bottom of the topper with twill tape, lace, ball fringe, rick rack or other embellishment, if desired.
Center-Seamed Topper
Step 1
Create a topper similar to the one above by seaming two pieces of fabric. Use this method if you want a square larger than the width of the fabric you select.
Step 2
Cut the fabric so that the length of each piece is twice the width. For example, if your fabric is 45 inches wide, cut each piece 90 inches long. When you sew the pieces together, you'll have a 90-inch square.
Step 3
Hem the topper with your favorite method. Add embellishments, if you like, as above.
Fitted Table Topper
Step 1
Make a fitted topper by seaming lengths of fabric to a fabric square.
Step 2
Cut a square the size of your table top, adding 5/8 inch on each side for a seam allowance. For the sides, cut four lengths of fabric. Each panel should be the width of the square, plus 5/8 inches on each side (1 1/4 inches total) for the seam allowance. The length of each panel should equal the length of the finished topper plus a 5/8 inch seam allowance and a 1 inch hem allowance (1 5/8 inches total).
Step 3
Sew the short end of one panel to one side of the topper square, right sides together. Use a 1/2 inch seam allowance when you sew, which you'll need to fit the topper on the table. Repeat with the other three sides.
Step 4
Sew the side seams of the panels, right sides together. Hem and embellish, as above.
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