madamekelly

I make quick gifts like key fobs, mug rugs, coasters, candle mats, placemats, dresser scarves, antimacassars, etc, (in any size) using six pieces of fabric cut the desired size, plus 3/4" and a piece of batting the same size. Take the first 2 pieces and and batting set aside. Take the other pieces and press them in half long, short, corner, as long as they are all right side out the same shape and size. On a table, place shapes into your desired shape like a puzzle with raw edges out. Layer extra piece of fabric face down on top, then batting, then last piece of fabric face up. Pin all layers together securely and stitch 1/4" seam around all sides (and losing some 1/4" to the thicknesses, hence adding 3/4 instead of 1/2" for seams. (walking foot helps here). Trim corners carefully. Turn folded edges up, put your thumb in the center as if to make it "right side out". Now all edges are finished, finger press out flat then press to smooth with folded centers touching again. At this point you quilt the layers. I use big embroidery stitches to secure across both width and length (or hand tacks on little ones) to keep the layers together. The larger areas are great to feature team logo fabric or just team colors, and you can make them quickly assembly line style (thank you EB) and stitch them in an evening, and press and embroider to quilt. (Make a small practice piece first, to see where colors will land, and where you can use other fabric if you want to.)
Clear as mud, right?