]
Is that the same thing as "birthing" them? I wasn't familiar with that term.[/quote]
Yes .......when birthing a quilt, I leave an opening on one side and after turning it right side out through that opening, you can hand stitch it closed or machine stitch it closed, sewing 1/4" seam around the quilt.
For placemats....I think it looks more finished the way I described.