Friday, March 14, 2008

Dinner Time...

As a follow on from a previous post of mine (some time ago), I've designed these placemats to encourage kids to help mum and dad by setting the dinner table (and perhaps earn themselves some pocket money). In my previous post, I made some little aprons with a knife, fork and spoon stitched onto three separate pockets for kids to carry the cutlery to the table. And now these are the placemats to show them where to place the cutlery. It's a bit hard to see in this photo ( I need a new camera!!!), but I've stitched a knife, fork and spoon onto the linen fabric.

I've used a heavy linen look fabric to stitch the cutlery onto and the flowery fabric is from Z & S.


This is the backing fabric which is also from Z & S.

Here's a close up of the cutlery. This is purely experimentation at this stage, so I realise the cutlery is a bit wonky. I drew it free-hand and then machine stitched over it, so tonight I'm going to make up some templates to trace and I'm going to try handsewing the cutlery as well to see if that gives a better result. I've also used some 100% cotton interfacing to stiffen them a bit, which has worked perfectly.

I would love to hear feedback on these...particularly the cutlery design. I basically copied my knife, fork and spoon from my cutlery drawer. I'm happy with the knife and spoon, but I'm not sure about the fork. All suggestions welcome!!! But be kind...me ego is fragile!!!

10 comments:

Cass said...

Wow I think they look great, well done and a wonderful idea for the kids to help

Jenny said...

Just perfect the way they are!!Love the fabrics-what a good idea especially as so many kids these days eat in front of the TV and don't know how to set the table!!

A Spoonful Of Sugar said...

Terrific Idea and it should help your kids learn the difference between left and right (something my 13 year old son still struggles with!)I like how the cutlery shapes are subtle and a good cue without being too obvious. The backing fabric is especially nice. I will have to check out that fabric source. Lisa

Melissa Goodsell said...

Well I think they are fabulous!! Such a cool idea to add the embroidery and I love the colours you've chosen.
Melx

Selina said...

what a great idea!

zoesquid said...

What a clever idea. Love the fabric choice too. Im still to order with S&Z but believe they are wonderful.

Corrie said...

cute! love the idea of the cutlery on there! very clever and love the colours

Corrie;)

Maureen Reynolds said...

Cutlery outlines would help the other person in my home...who sets the table while I cook dinner. I suspect this person was never taught??? or more likely never listened. ;-)

jillytacy said...

Very cute. I love red and linen combined. The stitched utensils are cute.

Anonymous said...

Ainslie, I love these! Great fabrics, and great idea.