Easy Fabric Coasters + A Holiday Gift Idea

I realize recently I have such an enormous collection of supplies in my craft stash. So many that I wanted to try and see what I could make from the materials, without buying anything. Sound like a good challenge? Especially around the holidays right? I’m thinking I might put together a 12 Days of Free Holiday Projects series, how does that sound? Then you can get some ideas of what kinds of things to make with your craft hoard stash too. {See the other free projects I’ve made here}.

Fabric is one of those materials. I’ve got bins of it. That doesn’t stop me from buying more though does it 🙂

Today I’m going to start with an easy and super cheap fabric project, DIY fabric coasters. I love sewing and find it to be a relaxing yet productive activity. When I’m done making something like a table runner or reupholstering an ottoman I always try to think of what I can do with the leftover fabric. These small coasters were just the solution. Plus they make a great gift idea and tis the season for giving something specially made by you. Your family will love them, I promise. Here is how to make DIY fabric coasters.

Supplies:

• Fabric
• Thread
• Scissors or cutting mat and rotary cutter
• Measuring tape or ruler
• Pencil or disapearing ink sewing marker
• Sewing machine and thread
• Batting for in between is optional, but I did use it

Instructions:

1. Gather your fabric. This can be leftovers you may have or remnants from other projects. Almost every fabric store has discontinued samples or perhaps you can use pretty napkins or pillowcases?

2. Cut the fabric into 5 1/2 inch squares. (Most coasters are 4 inches square, so I though 5 1/2 would give me enough room for error and seams, but be big enough for a large mug of mulled cider or tea.)

3. For these coasters I also cut a 5 inch square piece of thin batting for inside. This is optional, but I think it gives the coaster some nice cushion for a glass, plus it can collect any condensation.

4. To get started sewing, place the two pieces of fabric right sides together and the piece of batting on top. When you sew all the pieces, then turn them inside out, you’ll end up with a sandwich of fabric-batting-fabric.

5. Sew around 3 + 1/2 sides of the coaster to connect all the layers of fabric. Remember this is when the fabrics are right sides together and the batting is on top.

6. Trim off the extra fabric just outside the sewn line, it will make the coaster less bulky when you turn it right sides out.

7. Turn the coaster inside out through the unsewn opening.

8. Tuck the opening fabric in to make a clean edge and sew the coaster around all four sides. You can use a contrasting thread for this or a fun decorative stitch.

And you are done! It’s sew simple 🙂 I made four of these with the same blue fabric, but I could see them with a different fabric on each side. Or perhaps a set with coordinating fabric. Have fun picking your own colors and patterns to match your style.

I’ve already made a few sets to give away. I’m sure you can finish a set of four in the time it takes to watch an episode of Income Property. Don’t you love the makeovers on there?

If you’re looking for some other fabric project ideas, come see mine here. I’ve made lots of things with fabric:

• Coffee Table Turned Ottoman
• Cowhide Pillow
• How to Reupholster an Ottoman
• Make Your Curtains Longer

See all of my projects here.