Thrifted Quilt Magic: Turn It Into Festive Tree-Trimmed Placemats!

Introduction

Take that thrifted quilt you couldn’t resist and turn it into festive tree-trimmed placemats that’ll steal the show at your holiday table! This upcycling project is the perfect mix of crafty fun and seasonal cheer, featuring adorable tree appliqués that scream “holiday magic.” Dining tables are where so many memories are made, and having cute, handmade placemats adds a little extra magic to every moment. So, let’s get stitching and make something unforgettable!

Getting Ready for the Holidays

Getting my house ready for the holiday season is one of my favourite traditions, and every year I love making a little something new to add to my décor. Take these festive pillows, for example—I made them a few years ago, and it’s always a joy to bring them out each holiday season.

Supplies You'll Need

• Thrifted Quilt
• Paper (to make 13″ x 20″ template)
• Ruler and Pen
• Appliqué Template
• Yardage for Binding (60″ per placemat, 3″ wide)
• Small Pieces of Fabric for Appliqués
• Sewing Stiletto

Step-by-Step Guide

First, draw a rectangle (13″ x 20″) on a piece of paper to create the template and use it to cut several placemats from your quilt. Then, print the appliqué template and cut it out in green and yellow fabric. Also, cut strips of binding 3″ wide – you will need about 60″ length of binding for each placemat.

Topstitch around each tree using your preferred appliqué technique—whether it’s hand stitching, a zig-zag stitch, or free motion. For these placemats, a raw edge finish gives a cozy, homemade vibe that feels extra warm and inviting. Make sure the method you choose gives the look you’re aiming for!

Binding the Edges

Finishing a quilt can feel intimidating, but starting with a small project like placemats made from an upcycled quilt is the perfect way to ease into it. Here’s my favourite method for binding a quilt:

First, press your binding in half, widthwise wrong sides together, and choose a location around the placemat to start stitching. Stitch at ¼”, and when you are ¼” away from the corner pivot and stitch right to the corner at a 45 degree angle. Fold up the binding to match the 45-degree angle of the stitch, and then flip down the rest of the binding (while maintaining that first fold). Lay the binding down so the top fold is in line with the top edge of the placemat, and the raw edge of the binding is in line with the other side of the placemat. Start stitching again right at the top of the placemat. Continue to stitch the binding around the entire placemat repeating those steps for every corner.

To close the end of the binding, stop stitching each end of the binding about 4-5″ from the edge. Using a fabric-safe pen, mark the centre of the gap in between the binding seams. Lay each binding strip to the mark and draw a small line at that point. Draw a parallel line on each binding strip ¼” away from the marking and trim. Stitch the ends together at ¼” and finger press open.

Lay the stitched binding back onto the placemat and stitch to close the gap. Wrap the binding around to the other side of the placemat to cover the stitching. To make the mitered corners, use a sewing stiletto to help form a sharp corner. Use pins or clips to hold the binding in place. Stitch the binding to the placemat. You can either stitch in the ditch or stitch on the binding making sure to catch the binding’s pressed edge on the other side. Pivot at all the corners. Give a final press and bring to your table to start the holiday feast!

Embellished Evergreens

Take your tree appliqué to the next level by adding your own personal flair! Embellish it with hand stitching, beads, or other trimmings that fit your style and complement your holiday décor. Whether you go for subtle accents or full-on festive sparkle, the possibilities are endless for making these placemats uniquely yours.

Conclusion

As I finished each placemat, I grew more excited about how they were coming together. The festive tree appliqués paired with the cozy quilted background turned out even better than I imagined! By the end, I was absolutely thrilled with the result. These placemats add the perfect handmade charm to my holiday table and feel extra special knowing they came from a thrifted quilt. I can’t wait to use them for all those memorable holiday meals!

First Trim's Hot Take

Upcycling a quilt into festive tree-trimmed placemats is not just a fun and creative project; it’s also a sustainable way to bring handmade charm to your holiday table. By blending holiday-inspired appliqués with traditional quilting techniques, you create personalised pieces that will make your dining experience even more memorable. Happy crafting, and here's to a season filled with warmth and joy!

Original Article: https://www.sewdaily.com/sewing/thrifted-quilt-magic-turn-it-into-festive-tree-trimmed-placemats/