For any project to be a success, you must do some planning. Decide what type of material you want to use to make your placemats---poster board, glass, cloth or a combination of materials. Next, decide what theme you want to use---fall, holiday, summer, child's birthday or another theme. Then determine the size of your placemats. Lastly, think of what colors you want to incorporate into the placemat and if you are going to use paint to enhance the placemat. Sketch out your plans on paper, and draw up a short design template to make the project move faster.
Before beginning your placemat project, gather all the materials you will need and place them in a tote or box. Make sure you toss in a extra pair of scissors, glue, photographs, embellishments, stickers, clear contact paper or other protective coating, cardboard, and paper, and don't forget some fabric basting spray such as 505 or Dritz Spray Adhesive. If you make a lot of placemats, check your supply stock monthly and replenish any items you need.
To protect your finished placemats, cover them with clear contact paper or another protective coating to keep photos and other elements from getting wet or destroyed. You want a coating that is easy to wipe clean and quick to apply. If you use contact paper, lay your placemat down first, then place your contact paper slowly over the placemat. Press gently, and cut any excess contact paper with a utility knife after everything is sealed and smooth.
If you are making a lot of placemats for a group like a women's club or for a church picnic, make a template so each placemat will have the same size and shape. Cover the template with clear contact paper or other protective covering to keep it sturdy. Another suggestion: Make several different templates in various sizes so you will have some variety for future placemat projects.
To make curved corners, place a coffee can close to the edge of your placemat and cut the curve out with a utility knife. Repeat for other corners, then cover the placement with a protective coating if you are done with decorating.