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Placemat Christmas Apron DIY

November 10, 2018

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Whip up a darling patchwork apron for the holidays with this simple DIY.

Sew or no sew that's up to you.

Come check out the tutorial!

Pottery Barn Quilted Placemat

Several Christmases ago, my sister arrived at my home with four of the prettiest Pottery Barn placemats for me.

The holiday hostess!!

I instantly fell in love.


She knew I had a penchant for red and thought they'd look great in my kitchen.

She wasn't wrong.

Unfortunately, every time I set them down on the table, they would not lie flat.

It was as if the way they were stitched was a tad short and it forced them to curl.

Placemat With Curling Corners

I wrestled with them for a few months, ironed them and put heavy plates on them when we had company.

But no matter how I tried to display them, they fought me...and ended up spending most of their time stuffed in a drawer.

Then one day it dawned on me that they would make much better pillow covers than placemats.

They were itching to arch, so why not go with it?

I took three of them, combined them with some checked fabric and made pillows for my living room.

Perhaps you've caught a glimpse of them in some of my other posts.

DIY Fall Harvest Pillow on couch with other pillows

However, I still had one floating around.

It was too pretty to toss, but I didn't need any more pillows.

Then this week it dawned on me. I would make an apron from that placement.

I've always had a fascination with aprons and I've made many.

They remind me of sweet days of old, family holidays, elegant ladies dressed in pearls, crinoline, heels and lipstick.

Vacuuming.

A romanticized vision of homemaking.

My grandmothers and my mom always wore one when they cooked and as I get older I find myself wearing aprons now, too.

So I set out to make one as a Christmas hostess gift...or a gift for myself perhaps, since, I'm usually the hostess.

Is that wrong?

Christmas Button Tree

Well, while I was contemplating that, I was also working on my apron design.

My first vision was to adorn the apron with a button tree.

It was a good plan, until I put the buttons on the placemat and realized I wasn't thrilled. It was a better look in my head.

Plus, I wasn't sure how it would hold up in the wash.

Well, that and it was going to involve a ton of hand stitching. So, I quickly vetoed that idea.

However, I didn't abandon the button tree idea completely. Stay tuned.

Update: I finally got around to that button tree craft!!

With my first plan out the window, it was back to the drawing board.

Or my craft closet and my very ample stash of leftover fabric. Being a big fan of anything patchwork, I settled on the idea of a tree constructed from my scraps.

Now, keep in mind if you're not an apron kind of gal, and your own placemats are flat, this would be a really cute way to make a set of Christmas placemats for a holiday table.

You could also make a cute pillow cover from it...you know, if you need more pillows.

And frankly, who doesn't?

Scrap Fabric In Red Patterns

In order to decide on size, shape and scale, I mocked up my design with a paper pattern and a piece of trim I'd purchased years ago, but never used.

That would be my apron string.

I also used it as the strap on my vintage style denim tote bag.

Christmas Tree Paper Pattern And Scissors

Once I had a tree shape I was comfortable with, I folded it in half and pinned it on top of my fabric which was also folded in half and began to cut.

When I opened my fabric up, I had a fully symmetrical tree.

Fabric Tree Instructions to fold pattern and fabric in half, pin and cut

To be honest, I cut out a few trees.

I couldn't decided exactly what I wanted until I saw it. Eventually, my tree took shape and I was ready to stitch it on to the placemat.

If you don't sew, you can use a fusible tape and an iron.

Or you can substitute the patchwork tree with a store bought iron on patch. The idea is exactly the same and your results will be equally as adorable.

You can even use a patterned thrifted napkin or placemat and leave it at that.

Scrap Fabric Christmas Tree

I was going for a patchwork, hand quilted look, but I didn't want to actually do any hand sewing, so I flipped the settings on my beloved sewing machine to zig zag and got busy.

I wasn't super careful and it didn't matter.

I knew it would look fabulous with or without straight seams, which is awesome, since my sewing skills (and crafting patience) are severely limited.

Sewing Zig Zag Seams On Patchwork Christmas Tree

Once I had sewn the tree parts onto the apron placemat, I needed to add the trim that would tie around the waist.

I started by measuring it out, using my own waist as a guide.

I confronted my sewing machine once again, which by the way was remarkably well behaved, for a single straight stitch across the top of the placemat and then anchored the sides, as well.

Sewing Trim On Upcycled Placemat Apron

The result was a better than anything I had initially conceptualized.

The fit was perfect, the arch of the placemat hugged my body the way I knew it would.

Red Patchwork Placemat Apron DIY

And that little tree was the darling little accent I was looking for...creating the perfect holiday gift for whoever hosts Christmas dinner this year.

DIY Patchwork Placemat Apron Text over finished Apron Upcycle

Oh yeah, that's me.

Shhh....

Christmas Apron, Sewing Project, DIY Apron
Author: Kim @ Exquisitely Unremarkable

Placemat Christmas Apron

Whip up a darling patchwork apron for the holidays with this simple DIY. Sew or no sew that's up to you.
prep time: 15 Mperform time: 15 Mtotal time: 30 M

materials:

  • Placemat
  • Scrap fabric pieces
  • Christmas tree pattern
  • Ribbon or decorative trim 

tools:

  • Sewing machine 
  • If you don't sew you can use fabric glue or fusible web
  • Scissors
  • Thread

steps:

  1. Cut out a Christmas tree pattern
  2. Fold it in half 
  3. Lay it over a piece of fabric that's also folded in half
  4. Cut it out
  5. Repeat the pattern on other fabrics
  6. Arrange the fabrics into a tree shape and pin it together
  7. Place machine on zigzag setting and stitch tree together and onto placemat
  8. Sew on ribbon/ trim at waistband

NOTES:

You can alway use a holiday patch and iron it on instead if you choose
https://www.exquisitelyunremarkable.com/2018/11/placemat-christmas-apron-diy.html
Copyright © Exquisitely Unremarkable 2021. All rights reserved.
Created using Craft Card Maker

If you're looking for more holiday gifts, you're in luck!

Today is the 10th and that means my friends are sharing fabulous ideas for under ten dollars.

I hope you'll pop over to check out what they have to share!

Kim Signature


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  1. Patti @ Pandoras BoxNovember 10, 2018 at 7:21 AM

    Whats great way to use a placemat!! The pillows are adorable and the apron is very clever. It is so hard to keep something that won't be used, like this gift from your sister, but you certainly came up with great solutions!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 8:53 AM

      Thanks Patti! That silly placemat has been tucked in my linen closet for years and each time I clean it out I can’t seem to part with it. Well, last week, when I came across it again, I thought now’s the time! Finally!

      Delete
  2. LorriNovember 10, 2018 at 7:32 AM

    Clever and cute. Great job. You are going to look terrific this holiday season as you go about your holiday hosting.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 8:51 AM

      Thanks Lorri! I really should give it away, but I think my sister will be happy knowing I kept it. Now I need to find something to wear that will match! Ha!!

      Delete
  3. StaceyNovember 10, 2018 at 7:35 AM

    Kim, this turned out so pretty! You have gone a long way with that fabric and every project has been gorgeous. Everyone I know would be pleased to receive this apron. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 8:49 AM

      Stacey, I just can’t seem to part with even one scrap of that fabric. I think it’s a sickness!! 😉

      Delete
  4. taylorlisaNovember 10, 2018 at 7:35 AM

    This is beyond adorable! You are the the queen of up cycling and repurposing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 8:50 AM

      Lisa, I am actually blushing this morning. ☺️ Thank you.

      Delete
  5. AnnMarie aka Vintage Junkie aka NaNaNovember 10, 2018 at 7:50 AM

    Now that is clever! I LOVE your tree and the trim is perfect. I have a ton of odds and ends placemats, tablecloths with stains, etc. etc. Not that I will be sewing anytime soon :-) I love the pillow idea too.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 8:48 AM

      AnnMarie, get the iron on tape or sheets...it's so easy. Or better yet, grab those grandkids and some fabric glue and let them have at it!!

      Delete
  6. Tammy Patina and PaintNovember 10, 2018 at 8:43 AM

    That's genius! I have a few placemats that don't lay right and have been considering tossing. Guess I know what my next project will be!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 8:46 AM

      I'm so happy you found some inspiration here today, Tammy! That's exactly why I share!!

      Delete
  7. Rustown MomNovember 10, 2018 at 8:44 AM

    You have given me an idea on what to make for my son's gf - they are both loving entertaining and an apron is just the ticket!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 8:46 AM

      Oh Gina, I’m so glad! This one’s been on my list for a long time…

      Delete
  8. DonnaNovember 10, 2018 at 8:50 AM

    Clever idea! I have used placemats to make pillow covers but not an apron. Pinned it to my Aprons board!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 8:55 AM

      Thanks so much, Donna! And I have an aprons board, too…there are so many pretty ones out there. I wish my sewing skills were better. Thanks for the pin!

      Delete
  9. JunkchiccottageNovember 10, 2018 at 8:59 AM

    What a great re love of the placemat Kim. You rocked this girl. I love the patchwork tree to enhance it too.
    Have a great weekend.
    Hugs,
    Kris

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 9:27 AM

      Thanks Kris! It was a fun one to play around with…especially since we were in front of the fire watching a Netflix Christmas movie. We’re still in fall mode, but a little Fa-la-la spirit is starting to sneak in. 🎄

      Delete
  10. Carol@BlueskyatHomeNovember 10, 2018 at 9:23 AM

    Kim, you are Wonder Woman. An apron from a placemat is genius. The Christmas tree is a precious idea. Maybe you should give the apron back to your sister?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 9:28 AM

      Thanks Carol!! You're so sweet!! And I would give it back to her, but she's an empty nester with grandkids all over the country now, so her holidays are spent traveling rather than hosting. Oh well, guess I'm going to have to keep it. 😉

      Delete
  11. LynneNovember 10, 2018 at 10:25 AM

    Great idea with that curled up edged placemat!
    It turned out perfectly . . .
    Now . . . a picture of you in that Holiday Apron is a must!
    Please . . .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 10:39 AM

      Oh, Lynne...I will try! Last night, by the time I finished this project I was in my pjs and a ponytail watching a Christmas tale on Netflix. Not exactly model worthy attire!!

      Delete
  12. Katie MansfieldNovember 10, 2018 at 12:39 PM

    So cute. What a great repurpose. The Christmas tree pattern is darling.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 10, 2018 at 12:55 PM

      Thanks Katie!! It took a little thought, but I’m happy with the way it turned out. 😊

      Delete
  13. Julie's Creative LifestyleNovember 10, 2018 at 1:27 PM

    Hey Kim, oh the apron you made from the placemat is so pretty and just perfect for entertaining for Christmas. I love the pretty Christmas tree on the front too. It's great that you were able to use all of the fabric for different things.
    Enjoy the weekend.
    Julie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 11, 2018 at 11:21 AM

      Thanks Julie! I love it when I get to use a few scraps from my seemingly never-ending stash! Enjoy the sunshine today!!

      Delete
  14. Judy at GoldCountryCottageNovember 10, 2018 at 2:09 PM

    Kim, that is such a good choice for the remaining placemat. You did a really great job and the patchwork tree is the perfect compliment. I didn't know that your beautiful red velvet pillows started out life as placemats. What?? You think you can ever have enough pillows!..xxoJudy

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 11, 2018 at 11:18 AM

      Thanks Judy! I made those pillows long before I started blogging...which was in 2013, so they've lasted a long time. And now you know just how long that silly placemat has been a velvet thorn in my crafty side! 😉 It feels good to have made something fun from it. xoxo

      Delete
  15. Brenda PruittNovember 10, 2018 at 4:13 PM

    You've sure trained yourself to come up with the best frugal ideas! And not only are they frugal, they're beautiful as well.
    Brenda

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 11, 2018 at 11:16 AM

      Thanks Brenda...waste not want not...or something like that, right?

      Delete
  16. EilisNovember 10, 2018 at 5:03 PM

    You are so clever! Your apron is adorable. I will be on the look out for placemats to do this with.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 11, 2018 at 11:15 AM

      Thanks so much! It felt good to finally give this one a purpose...

      Delete
  17. AnnNovember 10, 2018 at 7:00 PM

    I love it, and it's so nice you were able to finally use something that had been tucked away. You're so creative, Kim!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 11, 2018 at 11:14 AM

      Thanks Ann! I am excited...it kept falling out of the linen closet reminding me to do something with it for years!!

      Delete
  18. Carla from The RiverNovember 10, 2018 at 9:09 PM

    CUTE! What a great idea.
    Thank you for sharing with us. Well done post as well.
    Carla

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 11, 2018 at 11:12 AM

      Thanks Carla. The best part of this project was hanging with my kids and crafting in front of a {bad} Netflix Christmas flick.

      Delete
  19. CHERINovember 10, 2018 at 9:54 PM

    All of your projects turned out wonderfully! I sure wish I could sew...my mother tried to teach me but it just didn't stick!!! Can't wait to start decorating for Christmas but need to get through Thanksgiving first:)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 11, 2018 at 11:11 AM

      I'm with you, Cheri. Christmas music and Christmas crafting is ok... but no decorating here until the turkey is gone!

      Delete
  20. BenitaNovember 11, 2018 at 6:36 PM

    That is just too cute! I would have left them tucked in a drawer forever...LOL. You are so creative and I just love this apron...and those pillows! Love and hugs!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 11, 2018 at 9:03 PM

      Thanks Benita! And trust me it’s been siting untouched for years. I just finally got sick of it falling out of the closet on me.

      Delete
  21. MelissaNovember 11, 2018 at 10:42 PM

    What a clever thing to do to an unruly placemat! Very cute and Christmasy! I love the little tree.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 15, 2018 at 8:52 PM

      Thanks so much, Melissa! I do like that little tree, too...just don't look too closely at the seams. 😉

      Delete
  22. AnonymousNovember 12, 2018 at 11:36 AM

    "I just can’t seem to part with even one scrap of that fabric. I think it’s a sickness!! "
    well if it's a sickness then it's the best kind to have!
    like it's writer/DIY'er… it's adorable!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 15, 2018 at 8:57 PM

      Thank you, Tammy...says the blushing writer. 🥰

      Delete
  23. TammieNovember 12, 2018 at 1:09 PM

    I love your ideas! My daughter loves old aprons and has a stash of some from my great aunt.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 15, 2018 at 8:57 PM

      I am an apron junkie, Tammie. I don't have a great collection...well, unless you count Pinterest! Ha!!

      Delete
  24. A Crafty MixNovember 13, 2018 at 6:14 AM

    Oh that's just so adorable Kim and I never in a million years would have imagined I would say something like that about an apron of all things. I can just picture you welcoming all your guests with a home cooked meal and that pretty apron. Seems like it wanted to hug you all along ;-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 15, 2018 at 8:58 PM

      Thank you Michelle! And I love your hug comment. Now that's adorable!!

      Delete
  25. VanessaNovember 14, 2018 at 1:27 PM

    What a great idea and it's beautiful. I am going to make this for sure. Happy Thanksgiving.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 15, 2018 at 9:00 PM

      Thanks Vanessa. I hope you'll share if you do make one!! Happy Thanksgiving!

      Delete
  26. Lowcarb team memberNovember 14, 2018 at 7:11 PM

    Wow! Such a good idea. Your apron looks great - and what a super colour it is!

    All the best Jan

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 15, 2018 at 9:00 PM

      Thanks so much, Jan! Now if I could just cook like you, I'd be in business!! Best to you!

      Delete
  27. Mary K.November 15, 2018 at 1:41 PM

    Kim I love how you repurposed that placement. The tree really makes it special and the two fabrics even more so!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 15, 2018 at 9:01 PM

      Thanks Mary! I just can't seem to get enough of this fabric...

      Delete
  28. JaybirdNovember 16, 2018 at 1:03 PM

    Perfect....pillows and apron.
    I knew you could master that sewing machine...you GO girl!!!
    Blessings,
    J

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim November 16, 2018 at 6:25 PM

      Thanks so much, J!! It took some work, but I think that machine and I have finally found some common ground. For now...😉

      Delete
  29. Linda at Mixed KreationsNovember 18, 2018 at 11:46 AM

    What a pretty apron, and that little tree is so cute. Glad you decided to upcycle the placemat instead of tossing it out. Perfect for the holidays.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim December 10, 2018 at 8:49 PM

      Thank you, Linda! I have to say it's become a treasured holiday piece already!

      Delete
  30. handmade by amaliaNovember 19, 2018 at 1:15 AM

    VERY crafty, my friend. I also like the little tree and and lace, they add a certain something to the apron. I have a whole stack of aprons that are way to pretty to use :-)
    Amalia
    xo

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim December 10, 2018 at 8:50 PM

      This one really should be displayed only. I am way too messy a chef to be allowed anywhere near it! ;) xo

      Delete
  31. Audra @ Renewed ProjectsDecember 27, 2018 at 9:07 PM

    This idea is genius! The placement is already hemmed around (hemming is such a bother) so you save lots of time. Your apron turned out super cute!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim January 4, 2019 at 3:21 PM

      Audra, you are so right...the less hemming I have to do, the better! And thank you!!

      Delete
  32. Vintage Style GalDecember 8, 2021 at 4:36 PM

    Too cute! At first I was like oh no, a velvet placemat, no! Then when I saw the placemats would not lay down, I settled down. LOL. I love the apron, and I am sure you will get plenty of use out of it. Although, maybe now it is too pretty to make a mess on... isn't it funny how they tried to glamorize house cleaning back in the day? I mean, I can tell you I would never wear a dress with my pearls and heels while cleaning the house. It is more barefoot, and comfy clothes for me when I am doing that chore! HA! Maybe I just revealed too much about how I clean my house, but I can assure you heels are never part of the attire when I do. ;) I so love the days you spoke of though... and I am a lover of old advertising!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kim December 8, 2021 at 8:22 PM

      So funny, isn't it? The way they romanticized vacuuming?? My mother was of that generation and I can assure you, she never wore pearls or heels while cleaning. She did however wear aprons all the time!!

      Delete