Summer is finally here and that means picnics, potlucks and family gatherings. Here are assorted projects that are not only lovely, many are quite clever and useful too! The first section lists gear and accessories that are useful for presenting, protecting and transporting food, then I have a few blanket tutorials listed at the bottom. Most are sewing projects but there are a few no-sew ideas included as well. Enjoy!
Fabric Bowl Cover: Sew a fabric & elastic strap to hold squares of fabric tight against bowls.
Eco Travel Lid: Fabric bowl cover made with cotton fabric, rip-stop nylon and elastic.
Lucille Bag: Simple design that makes a roomy tote to haul supplies, features cotton webbing for the straps and includes pattern illustrations.
Custom Napkins & Paper Holders: Two different projects, customized paper napkins (free pdf download) and paper chopstick or utensil holders using decorative paper.
Refurbished Basket: The top of the basket is decorated with fabric and Mod Podge, matching fabric is used to sew an inner liner.
Clever Utensil Wrap: Great stash buster, this clever wrap has two corner pockets to hold utensils in place, rolls up and ties closed with ribbon.
Origami Basket: Learn how to fold a five-foot square of oilcloth into a handy storage basket.
Easy Mats: Learn how to sew a pair of roll-up placemats with built-in utensil holders.
Basket Lid Cover: Simple project to spruce up a basket lid using cute fabric and some batting.
Pocket Cutlery Pouches: A rectangular piece of oil cloth is folded and stitched along the edges then cut on an angle (front piece).
Laminated Table Cover: Make a custom cover to fit over a picnic table using laminated cotton, ties underneath to hold securely against wind.
Water Bottle Tote: Great for toting to ball games too, this is made with utility fabric, striped blue ticking, batting, vinyl purse handles and basic sewing supplies.
Tablecloth Tote: Made with about 2 meters of quilting cotton or home decor fabric, cotton webbing and thread to match. Will fold up into a tote for easy storage.
Invitations: Fun, free printables to download and print.
You’ll also find ideas for making homemade ice packs here and casserole totes here.
Here are a few ideas for blankets and mats…
Tote: Clever idea, this folds up into a tote with handles. Also see this project for a similar idea.
Water Resistant Patchwork: Made with squares of assorted fabric prints, a vinyl tablecloth and light quilt batting, has fabric ties to roll up.
Oilcloth: Makes a large 8′ x 8′ weatherproof mat with fun fruit appliques in the corner.
All In One: Has pockets for supplies. Once it’s folded and the straps are buttoned, you have an easy way to carry all your essentials in one bundle.
Backed With Vintage Tablecloth: Trimmed with double fold bias tape (with straps to roll & tie).
So many gorgeous things to make to keep outdoor eating clean, easy, and organised! One small problem- has Tipnut got any tips to make the sun shine????