Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, and let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a sunny afternoon with a delightful picnic. But you know what makes it even better? A handcrafted picnic blanket! It adds a personal touch and transforms your outdoor dining experience into something truly special.
Today, I’m excited to share my journey of creating a vibrant and water-resistant patchwork picnic blanket. This project is perfect for adding a pop of color and personality to your outings, and the best part? It’s easier than you might think!
Gathering Your Supplies
Before we dive into the fun part, let’s gather our crafting tools:
- Complementary Fabrics: Choose a variety of fabrics in colors and patterns that tickle your fancy. Think stripes, florals, geometrics – let your creativity run wild!
- Vinyl Tablecloth: This will be the secret to our water-resistant base. You can often find these at affordable prices at stores like Kmart.
- Light Quilt Batting: This will provide a bit of cushioning and comfort.
- Measuring Tape: Precision is key!
- Pins: Our trusty allies in holding everything together.
- Thread: Choose colors that complement your chosen fabrics.
- Scissors: Sharp scissors are a must for clean cuts.
- Needle: For any hand-stitching needs.
- Sewing Machine: This will be our workhorse for this project.
Don’t forget to prewash your fabrics to prevent any surprises later on!
Designing Your Masterpiece
Now comes the fun part – designing your patchwork!
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Cutting the Squares: Cut your fabrics into squares of equal size. The size will depend on the dimensions of your vinyl tablecloth and how many squares you want. For my blanket, I used 21″ squares to allow for a ½” seam allowance.
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Arranging the Pattern: This is where your creativity shines! Lay out your squares and experiment with different arrangements until you find a design you love.
Sewing: From Chaos to Crisp Points
Alright, let’s get down to business! Sewing a patchwork blanket might seem daunting, but trust me, with a little patience and the right technique, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
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The Nesting Seams Technique: Remember my initial sewing mishap? Don’t repeat my mistakes! Thankfully, I discovered the magic of “nesting seams,” a quilting technique that ensures perfectly aligned points. Search for “nesting patchwork quilt seams” online – you’ll find fantastic tutorials!
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Sewing the Squares: Once you’ve mastered the nesting seams technique, start sewing your squares together in rows, following your chosen design. Remember to press your seams flat as you go for a professional finish.
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Assembling the Layers: Now, layer your pieces with the cotton patchwork facing down, followed by the quilt batting, and finally, the vinyl tablecloth (face down). Sew along the edges, leaving one square open for turning.
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Finishing Touches: To secure the layers, either topstitch along the seams or use a few hand stitches to tack the corners together.
Crafting the Ties
For a touch of whimsy and functionality, let’s add some ties!
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Cutting and Sewing the Ties: Using leftover fabric scraps, cut long strips about 3″ wide. Sew along the long edge with the wrong sides together, then turn them right side out. Press the ties flat and topstitch along both edges for durability.
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Attaching the Ties: Sew the ties to the open square of your picnic blanket. Once the ties are secured, sew the final square closed.
The Finishing Touch
Congratulations, you’ve done it! You’ve created a beautiful and unique patchwork picnic blanket.
Completed Patchwork Picnic Blanket
Now comes the most rewarding part – enjoying the fruits of your labor! Pack up your favorite treats, grab your new picnic blanket, and head out for a delightful outdoor adventure.
Expert Tip from Sarah J., Sewing Instructor: “Using a walking foot on your sewing machine can be incredibly helpful when working with multiple layers of fabric like you do in this project. It helps to feed the fabric evenly and prevents any bunching or puckering.”
I encourage you to give this project a try! It’s a fantastic way to unleash your creativity and add a personal touch to your outdoor gatherings. Plus, imagine the compliments you’ll receive!
Don’t forget to share your creations and experiences with me in the comments below. And for more unique handmade gift ideas and inspiration, browse the exquisite collection on Robert Kline Art. Happy crafting!