How do you set a table with homemade placemats?

While there are many ways that you can set a beautiful and unique table using homemade placemats, the simplest way is to create reversible mats that can easily be flipped over to accent multiple color patterns and even different holiday schemes. For a table of eight, you need 2 yards each of two different material choices, a sewing machine, thread and standard pinking shears.

1. Choose your material and color scheme

   Choose two different cloth colors or patterns that accent your dishes. Choosing colors with similar tones, such as warm or cool tones or vibrant hues in varied colors, create a unified effect without being monochromatic.

2. Cut the swatches of cloth to the correct size

   Cut each cloth into eight rectangles of approximately 20 by 14 inches. Interface of the same size may be used between the two rectangles of cloth.

3. Pin the cloth together to prepare for sewing

   Pin one rectangle of cloth to the other pattern, right sides facing each other. Pin the interface on top.

4. Sew the placemats

   Sew the placemats with a 1/2-inch seam, leaving room to pull them right side out after completing the rectangle. Topstitch to close the seam once turned right side out. Iron to complete the placemats.

5. Set your table

   Choose the side you'd like to use given the time of year, the style and the color of dishes you're using.