Easy Mug Rugs

Learn how to make a mug rug with this really easy mug rug pattern. Here I will show you how to make a mug rug pattern without binding and with binding so you have 2 options to suit your sewing level.

Contents

Mug Rug Pattern Tutorial
- What is the Size of a Mug Rug?
- What is a Mug Rug Pattern Used For?
- Mug Rug Pattern - Supplies
Mug Rug Tutorial - 2 Styles
Mug Rug Pattern Without Binding
- How to Make a Mug Rug Without Binding Step by Step
Mug Rug Pattern With Binding
- Step 1 - Cutting
- Step 2 - Sandwich the Batting
- Step 3 - Binding
Mug Rug Pattern FAQs
- What is the Difference Between a Mug Rug and a Coaster?
- What is the Purpose of a Mug Rug?
- How to Decorate Your Mug Rug
Mug Rug Pattern - In Conclusion
More Home Decor Tutorials
Mug Rug Pattern
- Tools
- Materials
- Instructions

Mug Rug Pattern Tutorial

I thought I would make myself a mug rug pattern after spilling coffee on my desk for the hundredth time. Quilted mug rugs can be easily washed and will protect your table from spills and heat. Most of the time I am writing these tutorials for you there is a cup of tea or coffee nearby - particularly in winter. Mug rugs are between a coaster and placemat in size so they fit a mug and some tasty goodies.

What is the Size of a Mug Rug?

Most mug rugs are approximately 6 x 9 inches (15x23cm) to 10 x 12 inches (25x30cm). Some can be as small as 4 x 8 inches (10x20cm) but you can make any size or shape you would like. Like many home decor and accessories, there is no standard sizing. In contrast to coasters, mug rugs are typically rectangular so you can fit your mug and a snack on it.

What is a Mug Rug Pattern Used For?

A mug rug pattern is used to protect your tables from hot items that may leave marks. In addition, they look stylish and can be color coordinated to your home. Mug rugs can be used on your desk or vanity as well to hold all sorts of items and not just mugs.

Mug Rug Pattern - Supplies

You will need:

Fabric
Batting
Sewing Supplies - Sewing machine, matching thread, pins, ruler
Cutting Tools - Scissors or rotary cutter and cutting mat
Method 2 - Binding

What Kind of Fabric Do You Use for a Mug Rug?

Cotton fabric is best as it will protect your table and not get damaged by heat. Stay away from polyester and other synthetic fabrics which may mark or even melt when heat is applied. This is a perfect project to use up some of your quilting cotton scraps. Fat quarters are economical and make great mug rug fabrics.

Your top fabric rectangle doesn't need to be plain. You could easily use a quilting block for a lovely patchwork effect. Once you have made a simple mug rug you can start experimenting with different patterns and blocks.

How Much Fabric Do You Need for a Mug Rug?

You will need ¼ yard (0.25m) of fabric to make a mug rug. Pre-cut fat quarters are an economical way to purchase fabric for this easy sewing project.

What Kind of Batting Do You Use for a Mug Rug?

The batting needs to provide some protection for your table. Cotton batting can be used as well as insulating batting. Fusible fleece or even felt can also be used but may need to be doubled if it does not provide enough protection. Cut the batting the same size as the fabric rectangles.

Mug Rug Tutorial - 2 Styles

Below I will show you how to make a rug mug with binding and without binding. If you are a beginner then the without binding method is the easiest.

Mug Rug Pattern Without Binding

If you are a beginner or simply looking for the fastest option for your mug rug pattern, then this method is for you. Mug rugs without binding are fast and really easy to make in 10-20 minutes. The top quilting is probably what takes the longest and even that can be simplified.

How to Make a Mug Rug Without Binding Step by Step

Step 1 - Cut the Fabric

Cut 2 rectangles of fabric 1 inch(2.5cm) larger than the finished size of the mug rug. Cut one piece of batting of the same size.

EXAMPLE: For a 6 x 9 inch (15 x 23cm) mug rug, you will cut 2 rectangles of fabric and batting which are 7 x 10 inches (18 x 25cm).

Step 2 - Baste the Batting to the Fabric

Baste the batting to the back of one of the fabric pieces close to the edge. When basting, it is easiest to stitch on the fabric side.

Step 3 - Stitch Around the Edges

Put the fabric right sides together and stitch around the edge with a ½ inch (12mm) seam allowance. Leave a 2 inch (5cm) gap on one side as shown.

Mug Rug Pattern Without Binding - Stitching

Step 4 - Turn The Right Way Out

Clip the corners and turn the mug rug pattern to the right side through the gap in the side. Make sure the corners are poked out well and press. The seam allowance at the gap should be pressed to the inside.

Step 5 - Finishing the Gap

Stitch the gap closed using an invisible ladder stitch. Alternatively, if you don't feel like hand stitching, topstitch around the edge.

Step 6 - Quilt the Top

Quilt the mug rug pattern through all layers. There are many ways to quilt, but the easiest is to just sew a grid in 1 inch (2.5cm) squares.

Always start in the center and work your way out. A walking foot is great to use for minimizing puckers. I started by sewing the diagonal corners and then worked my way out.

If you want to be precise, mark all the lines with chalk or a removable fabric pen. I marked the diagonals and then just eyeballed the rest.

Mug Rug Pattern With Binding

A mug rug pattern with binding is especially popular for confident sewers and quilters. They can be plain or patchworked and look like mini quilts. I made my sample with mini patchwork squares but you can just as easily make them with a plain piece of fabric on top. The binding highlights the interior and adds a pop of color and fun.

Step 1 - Cutting

How to Make a Mug Rug With Binding

Cut 2 rectangles of fabric 1 inch (2.5cm) larger than the finished size of the mug rug. Cut one piece of batting the same size.

EXAMPLE: For a 6 x 9 inch (15 x 23cm) mug rug, you will cut 2 rectangles of fabric and batting which are 7 x 10 inches (18 x 25cm).

How to Make a Mug Rug with Patches

Cut 24 squares which are 2 inches (5cm) in size. I used 4 different fabrics. This will make a mug rug that is approximately 6 x 9 inches (15 x 23cm) when finished. Arrange them in a pleasing pattern.

Sew the squares together in rows with a ¼ inch (6mm) seam allowance.

Press the seams in alternating directions. This method will help you match up the seams a little better in the next step.

Stitch the rows together and you have your finished mug rug pattern top. It will be a little larger than the finished size but this gives you the opportunity to square everything up once the batting is added.

Cut a piece of batting and fabric for the back the same size as this top.

*Mug Rug Pattern - Cutting Instructions*

Step 2 - Sandwich the Batting

Sandwich the batting between the 2 layers of fabric which should be wrong sides together.

Quilt through all 3 layers. Your quilting pattern can be a grid or random stitching. You will find that the quilting process distorts the fabric slightly.

Trim the edges of the layers so that it is all squared and is your desired final size.

Step 3 - Binding

Apply the binding using the method in my how to bind a quilt tutorial. Alternatively, you can use double-sided tape using the quick slip-over-the-edge method. Read how to apply bias tape to corners. For my sample, I used the quilt binding method and hand-stitched the back. This was the slowest method but gave really nice results.

How Wide Should Binding Be For a Mug Rug

If you are cutting your own binding, cut strips 2 ¼ inches (5.7cm) wide. Alternatively, you can purchase or make ½ inch (12mm) double-fold bias tape. You will need around 40 inches (1.00m) in length for an average-sized mug rug of up to 7x10 inches (18x25cm).

Rug Mug Pattern with Binding, How to Make a Mug Rug with Binding

How to Bind a Mug Rug

Read the full article on how to bind a quilt
Cut strips of fabric 2 ¼ inches (5.7cm) wide. It can be cut on the bias or straight grain.
Press the binding in half lengthwise with the wrong sides together.
Leaving a long tail, start stitching the binding ¼ inch (6mm) from the raw edge.
When you get to the corner, stop ¼ inch (6mm) from the corner.
Fold the binding up and down again to form a triangle.
Continue stitching starting ¼ inch (6mm) from the corner.
Repeat for the other corners.
When you get close to the beginning, join the ends of the bias.
Press the bias to the wrong side and stitch either by hand or machine.

Mug Rug Pattern FAQs

What is the Difference Between a Mug Rug and a Coaster?

A mug rug is larger than a coaster and is designed to fit not only your cup but a snack or small plate. It is ideal for putting on your desk while working. Drink your cup of coffee and nibble on a cookie. A coaster is usually not much larger than the base of a cup.

What is the Purpose of a Mug Rug?

A mug rug protects tables and desks from the heat from mugs that can leave round marks on wooden tables. It is also decorative and fun. It will have space not only for your coffee mug but also for a snack such as a cookie or a small plate.

How to Decorate Your Mug Rug

You can personalize your mug rug by adding applique or embroidery letters. This is best done before you start on the fabric that will be on top. Decorative stitches can be used to quilt the mug rug instead of the straight stitch grid lines.

Mug Rug Pattern - In Conclusion

Now you can make a rug mug pattern 2 easy ways you can experiment with different patchwork styles and make all kinds of variations. Mug rugs protect your tables from marks and there is nothing nicer than admiring your work on the table.