Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the excitement of outdoor entertaining. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a pool party, or just a casual dinner on your patio, you want your outdoor space to look its best. One way to add a touch of elegance to your table setting is by making your own outdoor table placemats and coasters. Not only will they add a decorative element to your table, but they'll also protect your furniture from spills and stains. In this article, we'll show you how to make your own outdoor table placemats and coasters that are both beautiful and durable.

Materials You'll Need

To make your own outdoor table placemats and coasters, you'll need the following materials:

• Outdoor fabric in the pattern and color of your choice
• Heat-resistant batting or felt
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Pencil or fabric marker
• Sewing machine or needle and thread
• Iron and ironing board
  
  

Step 1: Choose Your Fabric

The first step in making your own outdoor table placemats and coasters is to choose your fabric. Look for outdoor fabric that is made from a durable, water-resistant material. You'll want to choose a fabric that is not only attractive, but also able to withstand the elements. Some popular choices for outdoor fabric include polyester, canvas, and Sunbrella.

Step 2: Cut Your Fabric

Once you've chosen your fabric, it's time to cut it to size. For placemats, cut your fabric into rectangles that measure approximately 14 inches by 18 inches. For coasters, cut your fabric into squares that measure approximately 4 inches by 4 inches. You can adjust the size of your placemats and coasters to fit your table and your personal style.

Step 3: Add Batting or Felt

Next, add a layer of heat-resistant batting or felt to the back of your fabric. This will help protect your table from scratches and prevent hot dishes from damaging the surface. Cut your batting or felt to the same size as your fabric pieces.

Step 4: Sew Your Placemats and Coasters

Now it's time to sew your placemats and coasters. If you're using a sewing machine, sew around the perimeter of each piece, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance. If you're hand-sewing, use a whipstitch to sew around the perimeter of each piece. Be sure to sew tightly to ensure that your placemats and coasters are durable and long-lasting.

Step 5: Iron Your Placemats and Coasters

Once your placemats and coasters are sewn, it's time to iron them. Use a hot iron to press the fabric and batting flat, paying special attention to the seams. This will help to eliminate any wrinkles and give your placemats and coasters a polished, professional look.

Step 6: Enjoy Your New Outdoor Table Placemats and Coasters

Now that your placemats and coasters are complete, it's time to enjoy them! Use them to add a touch of style to your outdoor table, and to protect your furniture from spills and stains. With their beautiful design and durable construction, your new outdoor table placemats and coasters are sure to be a hit at your next outdoor gathering.

Conclusion

Creating your own outdoor table placemats and coasters is a fun and easy project that will add a touch of elegance to your outdoor entertaining. Not only will they protect your furniture, but they'll also allow you to show off your personal style. These placemats and coasters are a great way to add a touch of color and texture to your outdoor table, and they're a breeze to make. So why wait? Gather your materials and start creating your own beautiful and durable outdoor table placemats and coasters today!