Thinking Outside The Blocks

One of the things I enjoy most is taking a traditional quilt block and changing it up a bit to give a different look. This block make-over is just in time to be a perfect Father's Day gift.  When I think of Father's Day, my  mind stereotypically goes to brightly coloured bow ties...although I know my hubby would not appreciate receiving one!

Here's a way to give Dad a different kind of bowtie, that he can enjoy every day without having to dress up. He can keep it on his desk.

I picked up several Fat Quarters of polka dots at Mrs. Pugsley's.  She carries a lot of Michael Miller fabrics, and no one does dots quite like Michael Miller. If you would like to make this very simple Bowtie Mug Mat for the special man in your life, the directions follow:

Bowtie Mug Mat

Finished size:  11-1/4" x 5-1/2"    
Materials Required: 

2, 4-1/2" squares, one 2-1/2" square of fabric
Backing fabric: 12" x 6"

Batting :12" x 6" (fusible fleece, cotton batting)
Sewing thread to match

Seam allowance of 1/4" used throughout

Sewing Directions:

From fabric cut 2, 4-1/2" squares, one 2-1/2" square.  

Cut the 2-1/2/" square diagonally, corner to corner forming two triangles.

Position triangles as shown and sew using a 1/4" seam allowance.  Press seam open.  

Lay out pieces as shown and join across centre.  Press seam to one side.

Sew across centres, matching seams.  Press seam to one side.

Layer face down on backing and batting.  Note that I don't bother to cut the backing to shape at this point;  it will be trimmed after stitching. Sew around edges, leaving an opening to turn on one of the 4-1/2" sides (shown between red pins).

Clip into seam allowance on the four inside corners.

Turn right side out through the opening, press, and slip stitch opening closed.  Machine stitch along outside edges and through centre seams.

Enjoy!

If you make a Bowtie Mug Mat, remember to send a picture to share here.