Round reversible placemats are a satisfying weekend sewing project that delivers beautiful, practical results. Two coordinating fabrics, a little batting, and some simple straight-line sewing is all it takes. Here's everything you need to make your own set.
Why Round Placemats?
Round placemats soften the look of a dining table compared to standard rectangular ones — they work especially well on round or oval tables where they echo the table's shape. The reversible construction means you get two looks in one, making them easy to refresh your table for different seasons or occasions simply by flipping them over.
Materials (for a set of 4 placemats)
- ¾ yard fabric A (top/front — a bold print or seasonal fabric works beautifully)
- ¾ yard fabric B (back/reverse — a coordinating solid or blender print)
- ¾ yard thin cotton batting or fusible fleece
- Coordinating thread
- 14" dinner plate or circular template (for cutting)
- Fabric marker or chalk
- Rotary cutter, cutting mat, and scissors
- Sewing machine
- Iron and pressing surface
Finished Size
Using a standard 14" dinner plate as your template, the finished placemats will measure approximately 13"–13.5" in diameter after seaming and turning — a generous size that works well for most place settings.
Step 1 — Cut Your Circles
Fold each fabric and the batting in half, then in half again (four layers). Trace around your plate template with fabric chalk and cut through all layers at once for speed and consistency. You'll need 4 circles from fabric A, 4 from fabric B, and 4 from batting. Press all fabric circles smooth before assembling.
Step 2 — Layer the Pieces
For each placemat, layer as follows: place fabric A right-side up on your work surface, then place the batting circle on top, then place fabric B right-side down on top of both (right sides of A and B facing each other, batting on top of A). Pin all three layers together around the perimeter, easing the curved edges smoothly as you pin.
Step 3 — Sew Around the Perimeter
Using a ½" seam allowance, sew around the entire circle — leaving a 3"–4" opening for turning. Sew slowly around the curves, pivoting frequently to keep your stitching smooth and even. Backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam and at both sides of the turning gap.
Step 4 — Clip the Curves
Clip small notches around the entire curved seam allowance, spacing them about every ½"–¾". Be careful not to clip through your stitching. Clipping the curves allows the seam to lie flat and smooth when turned right-side out — this step makes a significant difference in the finished appearance.
Step 5 — Turn and Press
Turn the placemat right-side out through the opening. Use a blunt tool (a chopstick or point turner works well) to smooth the edges from the inside. Press the placemat flat, turning the raw edges of the opening inward neatly and pressing them flush with the seam line. Pin the opening closed.
Step 6 — Topstitch
Topstitch around the entire perimeter of the placemat approximately ¼" from the edge. This closes the turning gap, secures all layers together, and gives the placemat a clean, professional finish. For added interest, add a second or third concentric circle of topstitching 1" inside the first — this also helps quilt the layers together for durability.
Fabric Tips
- Use quilting cotton for both sides — it's easy to work with, presses beautifully, and holds up well through regular washing
- Choose fabrics from the same collection for an effortlessly coordinated set — fat quarter bundles often have enough yardage for a full set of 4–6 placemats
- For seasonal use, pair a Christmas print on one side with a neutral on the other for easy holiday table styling
- Pre-wash all fabric before cutting to prevent shrinkage after the placemats are finished
Care Instructions
Machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold or warm water. Tumble dry low or lay flat to dry. Press with a medium-hot iron if needed. These placemats are designed for regular use and will hold up beautifully through repeated washing.
Shop Fabric for Your Placemats at My Fabric Villa
Find the perfect fabric combination for your reversible placemat project at My Fabric Villa. We carry a wide selection of quilting cottons, seasonal prints, and coordinating solids from top brands. Contact us anytime for fabric pairing recommendations.
