These coasters release a lovely Christmassy scent when used with a hot beverage. Use the same idea to make potholders, hotmats (for under casserole dishes), etc.
quilted holiday print fabric, 2 pieces about 6 by 6 inches (15 cm by 15 cm) is enough for one coaster
potpourri and / or rice
essential oils in holiday scents and / or spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves
matching thread and seam binding (or double fold bias tape)
Line up two pieces of fabric, wrong sides together, and sew a seam along three sides, and include all corners of the coaster. Trim seam allowance to 1/4 inch (.6 cm).
Place a combination of potpourri, rice, essential oils, spices inside. Do not overfill! The coaster has to lay flat - it's dangerous to have a hot drink sitting on an overly padded surface.
Machine or hand sew last side closed. Trim seam allowance.
Attach seam binding or bias tape around all 4 sides to enclose raw edges.
Add other decorative finishes to the edges if you like - pregathered lace, crocheted edging, etc.
If you want to be really practical, make a separate inside case for the filling. It can then be removed if the outer cover needs washing etc. The outer cover can be closed with a few hand stitches, a spot or 2 of velcro, snaps, etc.
If making a potholder or hot mat, add an extra inner layer of cotton flannel, a piece of an old cotton towel or cotton quilt batting. Do not use synthetic batting (polyester, etc.) since it melts under high heat and can result in nasty burns. You should also quilt your own outer layers of fabric, using cotton, for the same reason.
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