Studio Y Extra - Fabric Tube Placemats

Studio Y Extra – Fabric Tube Placemats (Fearless Quilter Topic)

In this Fearless Quilter topic, we’ll explore the use of the Clover Tube Maker and share tips, techniques, and strategies for creating fabric tube placemats. Once you’ve mastered the process, don’t be surprised if you find yourself venturing into rugs, baskets, and other fabric tube projects — this technique opens the door to many creative possibilities.

Fabric tubes can be used to create:

• Placemats
• Small and large rugs
• Oval, round, or rectangular mats
• Baskets and containers

This is a technique-focused session, not a rigid pattern. There are no “must-have” measurements — you’ll determine size and shape as you create, with guidance and suggestions to get you started.

A little background (and why this is fun again!)

Fabric tube placemats and rugs have been around for years, with tutorials and variations dating back as far as 2009. Interest peaked around 2017 with the popularity of Jelly Roll Rugs, and written patterns (such as those from R-L Designs) are still available for those who prefer that format.

In 2024, Clover released its own Tube Maker, bringing renewed excitement to this technique. This Studio Y Extra focuses on using the tool and process to help you confidently create functional, one-of-a-kind pieces that fit your style and space.

What’s included

• On-demand Studio Y video instruction
• Demonstrations of tool use, tips, and strategies
• Guidance for creating four fabric tube placemats
• Access to the Studio Y support space for questions and sharing progress

All instruction is self-paced and on demand, so you can work comfortably from your own sewing room.

Supply List

(Supplies are listed here so you can easily add items to your order if needed.)

Required Supplies

• Clover Tube Maker
• Fabric strips
• 1 Jelly Roll
  OR
• Create your own “jelly roll” using 40 strips cut at 2½" x WOF (42–43")
• Tip: Sewing Basket Variety Packs or Half Packs are a great jumpstart
• Thin strip batting – approx. 50 yards

• Sewing machine needles (larger, sharp needles recommended):

• 90/14 Microtex
• 14/16 Jeans
• Topstitch needle

• Thread

• Approx. 1,200 yards of 50-weight thread for four placemats
• Polyester thread recommended (Isacord or Floriani)
• Choose a color to contrast or blend with your fabrics

• Standard sewing tools:

• Pins or clips
• Scissors
• Rotary cutter

Optional (Nice to Have)

• Creative Grids Stripology Ruler or June Tailor Strip Ruler
• Mary Ellen’s Best Press
• Purple Thang or stiletto tool
• Bowl or bucket for your “tube ball”
• 3" high cardboard tube for rolling sewn strips

Access

After checkout, you’ll receive an access sheet with clear instructions on how to enter Studio Y and get started right away.