Little fabric trays are so useful for holding lots of odds and ends in your sewing room, or around your home. Last year I shared directions for making a Charm Square Fabric Tray and a Hexagon Fabric Tray. The Patchwork Fabric tray is made from 2.5 inch squares and is a fun scrap buster project. With Valentines Day just around the corner, I have made this from my favourite red and pink scraps. You could make them for any holiday or for everyday use.
I use the Lori Holt method of scrap organisation, and have a tub of 2.5 inch scraps all ready to go for small projects such as this. Alternatively you could use a mini charm pack/mini origami pack of 2.5 inch squares.
For this project, you will need:
- 9 squares, each measuring 2.5 x 2.5 inch (patchwork lining)
- 6.5 inch square of white linen (tray exterior)
- 6.5 inch square of cotton batting
- red embroidery thread
It makes a fabric tray that measures 3.5 inch x 3.5 inches at its base, and is 1 1/4 inches high. (This is slightly larger than the Charm Square Fabric Tray).
Firstly you will need to arrange the patchwork squares into three rows of 3 squares. Sew the squares into rows using a 1/4 inch seam allowance, and then sew the three rows together to form a 6 1/2 inch square. Layer the square on top of the fabric batting. Pin the layers together and then quilt as desired.
Next follow the tutorial for the Charm Square Fabric Tray. When you are marking out the square base on the bottom with your hera marker, make it 3 1/2 inches square (so that the sides measure 1 1/4 inches).
It is such a quick and easy project and is perfect for beginner sewists!
Want more ideas for pre-cut Mini Charm Squares? Read our post on Mini Charm Packs: Small Squares, Big Possibilities
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Cute little tray..love the fabrics you chose!! I make mine with snaps in the corners…this way I can store them flat (especially good for taking one or two along when you’re traveling).
WOW! I love this idea. Great for storing seasonal decor as well. Thanks so much for sharing!
Or velcro, of course.
Very cute. thank you for the tutorial.
Thanks Christina
I just love what you do. I would also like to comment on the classy photography you do. You have nailed it every time. Your photography is just beautiful, and all the elements flow together so nicely. Your designs are adorable, and fabrics are to die for. Congratulations, and thank you for so many wonderful ideas. Keep up the fabulous work!
Super cute. I think I may have to add another little fabric tray to my collection. They are rather addictive.
Thanks Janice – I have quite a few in use around my sewing room.
Lisa
So cute!! I have been away from blogland for so long – now there are a lot of tutorials and ideas for me to try! Great fun!
Hi Tine – Great to hear from you! There is no shortage of inspiration around these days
“make it 4 1/2 inches square (so that the sides measure 1 1/4 inches)” It doesn’t work for me. There is something wrong but I can’t find out what it is…
Hi Fred – The patchwork fabric square should measure 6 inches after it has been sewn together with the exterior of the tray. The 4 1/2 inch square is centred and marked on the finished square to form the base. This means that the sides will measure 1 1/4 inch. (1 1/4 + 4 1/2 + 1 1/4 = 6 inches). You may need to read our original tutorial so this is clearer for you. Hope you can figure it out. Happy sewing, Lisa
Actually 1 1/4 + 4 1/2 + 1 1/4 =7… The center square should be 3 1/2, but not having it match yours\ directions did not slow me down.
Thanks for the tutorial.