DIY Patchwork Placemats with Ocean Oasis -

Ocean Oasis

There’s something special about handmade pieces in the home—whether it’s a quilt draped over a couch, a warm meal prepared with love, or a set of placemats that turn everyday dining into a cozy experience. When I came across the Ocean Oasis fabric collection, I was immediately drawn to its soothing blues and coastal-inspired prints. It reminded me of peaceful moments by the water, where the sound of waves and the feel of fresh air bring a sense of calm.

That’s exactly the kind of energy I wanted to bring to my table. So, I put together these simple yet beautiful quilted placemats using traditional pieces of sewing squares together “mini squares” and now I’m excited to share the process with you! Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just getting started, this project is perfect for adding a handmade touch to your dining space.

Materials Needed

Fabric: (40) 2.5” squares (I used Ocean Oasis by Diane Labombarbe
Batting: 13” x 18”
Backing Fabric: 13” x 18”
Binding Fabric: (2) 2.5” x WOF strips
Sewing machine with a ¼” foot (optional)
Rotary cutter, ruler, and mat
Pins or clips
Iron and ironing board

Step 1: Arrange Your Squares

The magic of patchwork is in the layout! Lay out your 40 squares in a 5×8 grid. Play around with the placement to balance the prints and colors. I always snap a quick picture once I’m happy with the arrangement—it’s a lifesaver for keeping things in order while sewing.

Step 2: Sew the Rows Together

Using a ¼” seam allowance, sew each row together. Press seams to one side, alternating directions for each row. This helps the seams nest together when you join the rows.

Step 3: Join the Rows

Sew the rows together carefully, aligning the seams for a clean finish. Give it a good press to keep everything flat.

Step 4: Add Batting and Backing

Layer your quilted top, batting, and backing fabric. If you’ve never basted before, don’t worry! You can use basting spray or pins to hold everything in place.

Step 5: Quilt the Placemat

I kept the quilting simple with straight-line stitching, following the seams to create a classic patchwork look. Feel free to experiment with different quilting styles—curved lines, diagonal stitches, or even free-motion quilting!

Step 6: Trim and Bind

Trim the excess batting and backing, ensuring the edges are even. Then, bind the placemat using 2.5” strips, either by machine or hand for a more traditional finish.

Step 7: Enjoy!

And just like that, you have a handmade placemat ready to bring warmth and charm to your table. I love how these turned out—every time I sit down for a meal, they remind me of the beauty of handmade creations. Whether you’re making a set for yourself, gifting them to a loved one, or using them as inspiration for a larger quilted project, I hope this tutorial encourages you to create something joyful with your hands.