Making a Machine Mat…

To make a Sewing Machine Mat you will need three pieces of fabric…you could even use Fat Quarters if you want your mat just a smidge smaller.  You will need a top focal fabric, a backing, batting and contrasting binding fabric and thread.  In my case I bought the pre-quilted fabric so I didn’t need batting or backing.  You will also need a piece of mesh 5”by the WOF (in my case 24”).  You can make your mat as wide as you like…some of these new machines are huge…so make yours accordingly!)

My mat measured 18” X 24” and the piece of mesh was 5” X 24”.

First up…measure and cut a 1 1/2” strip from your contrasting fabric about 12 inches long and press 1/4” in on both sides. (see pic).  Cut into two 6 inch pieces.

Divide your mesh into three equal sections, mark and sew these strips onto the division marks.

I used a daisy stitch only because I never get to use my embroidery stitches…

See how the mesh is plastic so NEVER IRON!

Now cut a strip of fabric 2 1/2” by 24” (or slightly longer than the width of your mat) and turn both edges in 1/4” like you did before and then fold in half…see picture..

Tuck the edge of the mesh inside and sew along the edge.  This makes a nice finished edge to your pockets.  Trim the ends.

After I pinned the mesh pocket to my mat I stitched it on the bottom and sides just to hold it in place.

I also stitched the pocket sections down.  I made sure to go back and forth to knot off the ends as I remember this area gets the most wear and tear!  You might even want to stitch two lines here…

Cut your binding just like you would for a quilt.  2 1/2” wide pressed in half…and sew to the edge on the right side and turn…

Mine is now all ready for hand stitching the binding to the backing…which I was going to do last night but I was just too tired… so I will do that today!!

I love my little mat…and can’t wait to see what Jan looks like sitting on this sweet thing!!

Thanks Gwen…you are such a great teacher and thanks to Gerry for the mesh!!  (Gwen supplied the Clubhouse gals with the mesh…as Gerry had leftovers after fixing a screen!!)  You can find mesh in most Hardware stores.

Also I am going to lay this rubber under my mat to prevent any sliding…It’s great stuff as I already use it in all the cupboards in the RV…prevents dishes and pots from sliding out the cupboard doors!  I bought it at the Dollar Store (in Canada).

I may even stitch a square of it to the underside…see if that keeps it from sliding when the ol’machine starts to rock and roll…:o)

This was an easy and fun project to make!!  And it’s SEW pretty!!  Now I might have to make a matching bonnet for the machine and start painting furniture a pretty apple green when I get home…

On Clubhouse Wednesday, I will HAVE to take a picture of all of the finished mats…dang cute!

THANKS, GWEN!!  It’s a SEW SWEET project!

Have a terrific Tuesday and happy Stitching!~P