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Braided Fabric Coasters

Okay, I really haven’t lost my mind. I do realize that today is Wednesday. But I got so busy yesterday that I missed Crafty Tute Tuesday! So I’m officially declaring that today is Tuesday here at A2D. Anywhoo…

Do you remember braided fabric rugs? I know for many of us, just those words bring to mind tired 1980s country decor in country blue and mauve. But ever since I saw this rug from Moda Bake Shop in these fresh, updated colors, I’ve been longing to make one for my little condo.


But I absolutely CANNOT take on another large project right now, when I already have about 10,000 projects started. So instead, I opted for coasters! They’re quick, easy, and they satisfy my desire to braid some fabric…for now. 🙂



And the good thing about coasters is you can use leftover scraps of fabric (recognize those fabrics?), or even an old shirt that is never worn. I dug a chambray shirt out of the back of the closet that I’m sure Matt has never worn even once.

So gather up your scraps and let’s get started!


First snip the fabrics at about 1 inch intervals, and rip the fabric into strips.



Now take three strips, and using a needle and thread, stitch the layers together and secure with a knot.


Either have someone hold the end, or place the end under a heavy object…


…and start braiding. Be sure that the braid isn’t too tight, or your coaster won’t lay flat. (I actually braided mine a little too tight.)


When you reach the end of a strip, simply attach another using a needle and thread. Secure by tying a knot in the thread, and continue braiding.


Once your braid is about 2 yards long, secure the ends with a pin so it won’t come unbraided.

Starting at the beginning of the braid, curve the ends over the braid and stitch. You’ll be stitching on the bottom of the coaster.


Continue wrapping the braid around, stitching as you go along. I placed a stitch about every 1/2 inch. You want to wrap tight enough so that there are no large spaces between the braids, but don’t wrap too tightly or the coaster will curl.


Stitch all the way to the end of the braid.


Using your needle and thread, stitch the end layers together and secure with a knot in the thread.


Then trim off the excess fabric. Turn the ends to the bottom of the coaster and stitch.


And you’re done!


Now pour yourself a glass of iced tea and relax. 🙂


Next week I’ll be showing you how to make this pillow, which I first spotted over at Scientific Housewife’s blog. I love the edge detail on this pillow, but I’m always shocked to see items like this with prices…well…like THAT. So I’ll show you how to make your own at a saving of over $180.

P.S. Today is the last day to enter the drawing for the free Virtual Room (re)Design Basic! If you haven’t entered yet, click here for details. Deadline is midnight tonight (CST), and the winner will be announced tomorrow.

 

 

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10 Comments

  1. Look at you go, Kristi! Adorable coasters! I've been using braids for my jewelry lately, and really, it's kinda therapeutic to weave those three strands in an out. Good for you to make a tute out of it!

  2. I have been loving braided rugs lately. I am looking for one for the kitchen, but I can't find the right colors. maybe I need to take on this project….hahaha

  3. I am redoing my kitchen, dining room and adjoining living room in seaside colors. I always thought a braided rug would be a nice addition to the 'beachy' look. This coaster caught my eye and now I'm totally at ease about braiding my own rug. I didn't know it was SO easy! Thank you so much!

  4. I need new coasters and don’t like the way that sandstone just doesn’t soak up the wetness. I’ll be making these starting tonight! thx so much for complete constructions!