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Crazy Patchwork Machine Mat | Patchwork Week
Moderate |
Quick Links: What you'll need Project steps
Here’s a simple way to create a mat that is the perfect size for your machine, using left-over scraps of fabric.
This sewing machine mat is a fun way to explore patchwork without the pressure of precision piecing. Using a crazy patchwork technique, this project skips many of the fiddly parts of traditional quilting – there are no points to match and you don’t need to worry too much about maintaining an exact seam allowance. Instead, you can simply enjoy sewing and watching the design grow as each strip is added.
Foam stabiliser gives the mat structure and cushioning while still being easy to sew on a domestic machine. The extra thickness helps reduce vibration while you sew and creates a sturdy, practical mat designed for everyday use.
For this version, six different fabric colours were chosen to create contrast, but this is the perfect opportunity to use whatever scrap fabrics you have to hand. The black centre squares and border act as a frame, helping the colours stand out and bringing the whole design together beautifully.
The material quantities provided are based on a mat sized to fit a sewing machine measuring 10 × 18in (25.5 × 46cm). To adapt the project for your own machine, simply measure the footprint of your sewing machine and add 2in (5cm) all the way around to allow for borders and finishing.
Key Tips & Techniques: Crazy Patchwork
Crazy patchwork is all about relaxed sewing and creative placement. Rather than following a strict layout, you’ll build your design piece by piece. Don't be afraid to be playful with your colour combinations!- Don’t worry about perfect seam allowances – pieces are trimmed as you go.
- Lift and press rather than sliding the iron to avoid stretching the fabric.
- Press seams after every addition to keep your work flat.
- Use a quilting ruler to trim accurately once the design is complete.
- A final line of topstitching strengthens the mat and gives a crisp, professional edge.
- Sewing machine with standard presser foot
- Rotary cutter and healing mat
- Quilting ruler
- Fabric marking tool
- Scissors
- Black cotton fabric, 44 x 12in (112 x 30.5cm)
- Six squares of contrasting cotton fabric, each approximately 8in (20.5cm) square
- Fusible foam stabilizer, 10 x 18in (25.5 x 46cm) or the size required for your machine
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You will need:
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Project steps:
Step 1
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Step 2
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