Growing up, I was always enchanted by the way artists played with color to capture feelings and moods on a canvas. It wasn’t long before I discovered quilting as a way to paint my own “canvas” using fabric, each project allowing me to create and express in new ways.
The Watercolor Palette Placemats Pattern is a beautiful example of this creative fusion. It combines the practical charm of placemats with the artistic vibrancy of a watercolor palette, capturing the free-flowing essence of paint on fabric.
These placemats are ideal for anyone looking to bring an art-inspired touch to their table. This project is all about stepping away from rigid patterns and embracing a playful, abstract approach. Let’s explore this unique quilting journey together!
Creating Colorful Flow: The Essence of the Watercolor Palette Design
What truly sets the Watercolor Palette Placemats apart is their abstract, free-form design. While most quilting projects rely on precise geometry, this pattern invites you to explore your artistic side by arranging fabric strips in varied shades and sizes to mimic the organic strokes of watercolor paint.
The colors don’t adhere to any strict pattern but flow into each other, creating a harmonious yet spontaneous feel. This freedom makes each placemat a little different and allows you to experiment with your unique color preferences.
Materials for the Watercolor Palette Placemats
To bring this project to life, you’ll need a few specific materials that will make your placemats both durable and beautiful. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1¼ yards of backing fabric: This will provide the foundational base for each placemat.
- Cut: Six rectangles measuring 18″ x 15″.
- 1 yard of binding fabric: This frames the placemats with a clean, finished edge.
- Cut: Nine strips, each 2½″ x 42/44″.
- Bosal’s In-R-Form Plus (36″ x 58″): A fusible foam stabilizer that adds thickness and durability.
- Cut: Six rectangles measuring 18″ x 15″.
- ⅝″ Grosgrain Ribbon:
- Option A: 3 yards per placemat (18 yards total for six placemats).
- Option B: 6 yards per placemat (36 yards total for six placemats).
- Steam-a-Seam2 Lite Fusible Tape (½″ wide):
- Option A: 3 yards per placemat (18 yards total for six placemats).
- Option B: 6 yards per placemat (36 yards total for six placemats).
Preparing to Quilt: Setting Up for Success
Before we dive into the steps, take a moment to set up your workspace and gather your materials. Choose a range of fabric colors that inspire you—think of shades that remind you of watercolor art, from gentle pastels to bold, vibrant tones. Prepare your backing fabric and foam stabilizer by cutting them to the specified dimensions. Having these ready will ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
Full Pattern: Click Here
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Watercolor Palette Placemats
Let’s get started on creating these beautiful placemats! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll see your own watercolor-inspired creations come to life.
Step 1: Fuse the Stabilizer to the Backing Fabric
- Place one rectangle of Bosal’s In-R-Form Plus on your ironing board.
- Position a backing fabric rectangle on top of it, making sure the edges align.
- Use a piece of parchment paper or a Teflon ironing sheet on top to protect your iron from the adhesive.
- Gently press with your iron to fuse the stabilizer to the backing. Make sure it’s securely attached, as this will give the placemat its shape and firmness.
Step 2: Center and Fuse the Watercolor Panel
- Lay the fused backing and stabilizer rectangle on your workspace.
- Place your watercolor-inspired fabric strips on top in a visually pleasing arrangement, blending colors as if they were strokes of paint on a canvas.
- Once you’re satisfied with the layout, carefully fuse the strips in place using your iron, covering with a pressing cloth as needed.
Step 3: Prepare and Place the Grosgrain Ribbon
- For each placemat, cut your grosgrain ribbon strips as follows:
- Option A: Six strips, each 14″ long.
- Option B: Six strips at 14″ plus seven strips at 17″.
- Apply fusible tape to the back of each ribbon strip, pressing the tape in place.
- Remove the paper backing from the fusible tape on the ribbon strips.
- Position each 14″ ribbon strip vertically over the white spaces between color blocks on the placemat, covering the gaps completely.
- For Option B: Add the 17″ strips horizontally over the color blocks, covering the color edges and any visible space between.
Step 4: Secure the Ribbon with Topstitching
- With your ribbon strips in place, topstitch along both long edges of each ribbon strip. This will secure them and add a decorative finish.
- For a more artistic look, consider using a thread color that complements or contrasts with the ribbons.
Step 5: Trim and Square the Placemat
- Carefully trim the edges of each placemat to 13″ x 16″, ensuring that the watercolor panel is centered and the edges are even.
- Double-check your measurements to ensure consistency across all six placemats.
Step 6: Attach the Binding
- Sew your binding strips together along the short ends to create one continuous strip.
- Fold the strip in half lengthwise with the right sides facing outward, and press it to create a crisp fold.
- Starting on one side of the placemat, sew the binding to the edge using a ¼″ seam allowance. Be sure to miter each corner by folding the binding at a 45° angle at each turn.
- When you’ve sewn the binding all the way around, fold it over to the opposite side of the placemat.
- Hand-stitch or machine-stitch the binding in place, ensuring a neat, even finish.
Additional Tips for a Stunning Watercolor Effect
- Play with Color Gradients: Arrange your fabric strips in a way that mimics the flow of watercolor paint. A gradual gradient from light to dark or a mix of contrasting colors can create a truly captivating effect.
- Use Varied Fabric Textures: Mixing fabrics with different textures—such as satin, linen, or even sheer overlays—can add an extra layer of dimension to your “palette.”
- Experiment with Ribbon Placement: Feel free to adjust the placement of ribbons to suit your design. Adding an extra horizontal or diagonal ribbon could make each placemat even more unique.
With the Watercolor Palette Placemats Pattern, you’ve created more than just functional items—you’ve added a piece of art to your dining table. Each placemat is a tribute to the beauty of watercolor painting and the freedom that comes with abstract design.
I hope you’ve enjoyed the creative journey of this project and feel inspired by the personal touch you’ve brought to your table setting. Every time you set the table, you’ll be reminded of the creativity and care that went into each piece. Happy quilting, and may these colorful creations brighten your meals for years to come!