Summer Table Topper Tutorial
This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share a commission.A table topper can be a fast and easy quilt project and a great way to try out a new quilt block. This one is made with soft pastel colors that are perfect for summer.
Last week I made placemats with the Marblehead Pleasing Pastels fat quarter bundle and today I have a table topper that will look perfect with them.
Purchase an ad-free printable version of my
Summer table topper and placemats here
Summer Table Topper
The size of this table topper is 24″ x 24″
There are two simple six-inch-blocks used in the simple table topper.
Fabrics:
- Fat quarters – one each of pink, teal, green, peach and purple
- 1/2 yard cream
- 3/4 yard backing fabric
Cut the following:
- 20 – Pink – 2 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inch squares
- 20 – Teal – 2 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inch squares
- 32 – Cream – 2 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inch squares
- 8 – Green – 2 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inch squares
- 8 – Cream – 4 1/2 inch x 4 1/2 inch squares
- 4 – Purple – 2 1/2 inch x 4 1/2 inch rectangles
- 4 – Peach – 2 1/2 inch x 4 1/2 inch rectangles
Sew all seams with a 1/4″ seam allowance.
This is a simple pattern that combines two different blocks.
Block One:
Make 4 Pink and 4 Teal 9 patch blocks. Each 9 patch will use 5 of the pink or teal and 4 of the cream.
Block Two:
Make 8 of these. Use the following diagram for placement for block two.
If you have an Accuquilt GO! cutter, you can cut the blocks with the 8-inch Qube Mix & Match set which makes it fast and easy to cut the pieces.
Blocks needed
You will make:
4 – Teal/cream 9 patch blocks
4 – Pink/cream 9 patch blocks
8 – Purple/Peach/Green/Cream blocks
Lay your blocks out as shown below.
Sew the 4 blocks together. Make 4.
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Sew the 4 large blocks together to make your table topper.
Next add them together to complete your table topper.
This is a diagram that makes it easier for you to see the sections of the table topper and how they are pieced.
Quilt as desired, I just did a simple free-motion stipple quilting.
Cut 2 1/2″ strips from the leftover fat quarters to make the binding and sew it on using my machine binding tutorial.
This post was originally posted in July of 2015 and has been updated.
I also finished up the last two placemats. I had asked everyone if they used placemats or not……it was about 50/50.
Since we have an oak table we always use table toppers for hot dishes.
Quilting is just a simple free-motion meandering.
I originally shared this Summer Table Topper Tutorial at Inspired by Fabric.
Tutorial for placemats
If you missed my post last week you can read about the placemats here.
I hope you enjoyed this tutorial. It has been converted to an optional PDF that’s optimized for printing.
Purchase an ad-free printable pdf of this table topper and the placemats post
I’m still sealing our huge deck. Yesterday I finished another set of steps and two-thirds of the front deck before I ran out of sealer. I used up 5 gallons in two days!
Builder Bob picked up another 5 gallons at $157.00…………and that will be enough to finish everything I’m going to work on this year.
Enjoy the tutorial……and think of me out in the hot sun sealing the deck instead of quilting.
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About Connie
Hi, I’m Connie Kresin Campbell, the quilter, writer, and photographer behind Freemotion By the River. I enjoy inspiring others with my quilt tutorials and patterns. You’ll also see my sweet adopted dogs from time to time.
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This table topper and matching placemats is obviously a winner with so many nice comments. It is a beginner’s dream and easy to put together. I love the paler tones but this set would also look nice with different colour combinations too.
Thanks, Connie, for another lovely project.
Beautiful batik colors. Very soothing. I love the block design layout. It’s nice and different. I could just snuggle up with the place mats, would make a great lap quilt, especially with the orange peel quilting. I lovee it. Thanks, Connie.
Such soft pretty colors. I like table toppers on my oak tables too. But I’ve given up using one on the kitchen table because my husband lays dirty utensils on them and spills on them. So I’m back to putting hotpads under hot dishes. LOL
I currently use a table topper that my grandmother quilted. I'm also learning how to quilt so I hope to be making many more!
No, I don't use table runners. I do enjoy making them as gifts for all my friends that do.
I commented on Fabri Quilt! Thanks for the opportunity to win!
I don't use either one, but I love making them for others who do!
I commented on Fabri-Quilt. Thanks!
Please click on the delaineelliott above for my email link.
Unfortunately, I don't use table toppers. Guess I will need to make some! Thanks for the tutorial!
Please click on the delaineelliott above for my email link.
I left a comment on the Fabri-Quilt blog.
I don't use a table topper because I haven't made any yet. Using them to set hot dishes on is a great idea and I am going to try to make some soon for that purpose.
I don't use table toppers, but its not that I don't want to, its just my dining table also doubles as my daughters studio space. So we eat off our knees, amd dream of having a table (and place mats etc) back one day. Thanks for the giveaway, it would be amazing to win. Tarnia.hodges at gmail.com
I use table toppers for decoration, but take them off when we eat. 🙂
I do not use a table topper but I do use placemats. Nancy A: rangerer@sbcglobal.net
We don't use them. Instead, we serve the food in the kitchen and leave hot pots and pans on the stove.
I do not use a table topper because I have yet to make me one!
Going to make this topper today in Christmas prints. Like the simplicity of it, plus I can show off certain holiday fabrics. Thanks, Connie!
I sew on the dining room table, lol…so while I do have a table topper to put there along with a candle or seasonal decoration…sometimes it has to be moved for the sewing 🙂
I use a table topper and sometimes I use place mats depending if they match my decor. I really need to make a few.
I do use a table topper but switch off between a quilted one and a Hardanger one depending on my mood
I use table toppers. I have sunflower ones.
I use table toppers and runners.
I use a table topper, but not placemats. Yeah!!! Your deck is done! Back to sewing…
I occasionally use a table topper……but I use placemats much more.
Hi Connie! Yes, I do use a tablerunner. I love the pop of color. I hope your deck gets finished soon and you can get back to quilting!
I will be when I finish quilting it, lol. I have a couple seasonals that are in various stages of completion.
No I have never used a table topper. My table is a catch-all so there wouldn't be room for one.
No table topper on my table but it is covered in fabric right now. I don't have my own sewing room.
I use a table topper or placemats – I'd love to win this fabric – thanks for the chance!
I use a table topper…but it is due to be replaced! Thanks for the chance to win!
A table topper graces my kitchen table while a table runner and matching placemats adorn my dining room table. I also have a table runner on each of my treadles and my butterfly cabinet in the living room.
I don't use a table topper-just placemats.
Thanks,
Peggy
Peggy_verdongibbs@att.net
Hi there Connie,
We don't use table toppers on our table as it is usually covered with my quilting stuff! I do make a lot of toppers to give as gifts though.
Thanks!
Quilty Huggs,
Jacqueline
I don't always have a topper; mostly not, but I want to make several seasonal themed one so that I can just switch them out. It's been on my todo list forever! Gotta get crackin'!
When the kids were little, we used place mats. Now its just me and I'm free wheeling it these days. Joanrob8@aol.com
I left a comment on Fabri-quilts blog too. cdahlgren at live dot com
I left a comment at their blog too. crystalbluern at onlineok dot com
We love table runners, they dress up a room or a table so fast! I absolutely love this fabric, and love your table runner too. dahlgren0609 at gmail dot com
I always use a table topper and often put a centerpiece item on it. crystalbluern at onlineok dot com
I left a comment on the Fabri Quilt blog
Yes, I use a table topper, placemats or a table cloth always.
I use table toppers on all my tables and tops of my cabinets. I like the way they protect my furniture aswell as looking pretty
Yes, I always have a tablerunner on my table, one for every season of the year!
I always have a table topper in my tables. I think it makes a table look much more inviting. Thanks for the tutorial and the chance to win these fantastic fabrics.
I use a table topper and placemats that all match! Thanks for a chance to win a great giveaway!
I love table toppers but my busy family usually folds them up or pushes them to oneside so I now usually put them on my welsh dresser or my sideboard i have a few mug rugs around that get used….great giveaway thanks for sharing it and your quilting adventures on the river.
Yes I love Table toppers and runners! I love the one you just made! The colors are my favorite! Thanks for the giveaway.
I use a table topper and placemats!
I don't use table toppers. But I will be making my first one for Christmas for our front room.
I left a comment on Fabri Quilt
I commented over at Fabri-Quilt too. Great tutorial! 🙂
Cute topper! Love the fabrics! I do NOT use a table topper. In this house, it would slide all over and dump everything onto the floor. Such is life with a 3 year old. Lol
Visited and left a comment on the Fabri-quilt blog.
I do use a table topper on one of my tables. This one would work great.
Just visited and left a comment on Fabri-Quilt's blog.
lv2bquilting2@comcast.net
Just left a comment on Fabri-Quilt's blog.
I use table toppers and have made upwards of 100 for all holidays and seasons, which I have given as gifts to family and friends. I enjoy making them and am now making them for our 6 married grandchildren. Love Ro Gregg fabrics and would like to thank you for the giveaway opportunity. lv2bquilting2@comcast.net
Hi, Connie! Yes, I always have table toppers and table runners scattered throughout the house. It's so much fun to switch them out through the seasons and holidays. I'd be lost without them! Hope you finish up your deck sealing today 🙂
I usually use placemats but that is a neat tabletopper. skaduzy44@windstream.net
I left a comment on the other blog too, great tute!
missysaprons@gmail.com
I usually use table cloths, I never have enough placemats for everyone. I do use my placemats at Christmas time.
missysaprons@gmail.com
Visited Fabri-Quilt blog and left a comment. Great tute, btw.
I have table toppers on various tables but not on the dining room table which we rarely use because it is always covered by clutter (the hubby's, not mine).
I need to seal our deck too, but I'm waiting until Sept.
Yes I do use a table topper on the table between meals , during meals I use a table cloth , I just like having the entire table covered , I guess my mom ingrained this into my brain lol . Love this table topper , so pretty , thanks for the inspiration as well as the chance to win these fabrics .
I forgot to let you know that I made a comment on your tutorial. Thank you again for sharing and inspiring!
No, I do not use a table topper very often, only on special occasions. Table toppers and placemats are fun to make though and give as presents. Thanks for sharing your great tutorials and the chance to win this great prize! Have a wonderful creative day!
I always use placemats with a small table topper in the center. Like you, I have an oak table I need to protect.
I use placemats but no table topper. I use trivets for the hot dishes on the table instead. Thanks for the chance to win!
I remember thinking how silly it was that my Aunt had little quilts all over her home…well, now I do and I love them all! I use table toppers, placemats, and mug rugs everywhere!
Good luck finishing staining your deck, what a huge undertaking but will be so worth it when done.
Yes I love to use table mats and runners. Makes for a lovelier home and these colors remind me of sea glass. Just perfect for summertime!
Try to always use placemats but need to make some fabric ones. Any table toppers I make are made to have hot dishes on them. I need to make more – why am I always on the bottom of the list?
I use both Table topper and placemats, love them
Barbara D.
I use placemats daily even on the weekends. I make placemats and table toppers for gifts as well. I do have one table topper I use daily. thank you for the give away..
I do and love them!! This one is beautiful!!
I always love a table topper it brings interest and color to the room.
I use table toppers but take them off when we eat! Learned that the hard way with someone…we won't say who…spilled orange soda over one!
We ALWAYS have a topper on our table one of my favorite things to make I have more then I could count. A fun thing to make as a gift also. We also use place mats with every meal. Nothing fancy I just like the look of them. Thanks for the place mat pattern by the way. Also of course for the chance to win.
I like to use a table topper; especially fun when using a seasonal one! Thanks for the opportunity – Dee
Yes I use tablerunners and placemats. I like to change them out.
Christine at chrmar406 at aol dot com
I use runners and toppers and placemats – of course not all at once – depends on what I need! thanks!
I left a comment on Fabri-Quilt's blog.
I do use a table runner. Just adds a bit of color.
I visited and left a comment at fabri-quilts blog.
I use table toppers. I like to change them out for the seasons. On some of the smaller tables I will use a cute place mat. I also make a lot of them for gifts. They are quick and easy and fun!
I left a comment over on Fabri-Quilt ")
Beautiful table topper and placemats. I don't use either on my table but kids do. Wonderful gifts.
No we don't use table toppers – but I have done lots of them as presents. Thanks for the opportunity to enter. Robert, from northern Iowa.
Table topper no, placemats yes. We are sloppy. I spray my placemats with scotchguard and use them a lot. Your topper is wonderful.
I always have a table topper on my table. Different ones for each season. Thanks for the generous giveaway.
Beautiful table topper. I like to have one on our table. jarvenpa1ne at gmail dot com
I don't use a table topper, but I use placemats I have made. That is a beautiful bundle of fabric, thanks for the chance to win it, I would make some placemats with it!
I do use a table topper under the napkin holder and S&P shakers in the center of the table. It gets changed with the seasons. 🙂
I use placemats but not a table topper or runner. Of course, I might if I ever get to making the runners I have planned. ;P We will usually put a potholder under hot pots… if they make it to the table. Thanks for the chance to win!
I like to use a table topper or table runner on my table. Thank for the great pattern and giveaway.
I also left a comment on the Fabri-Quilt blog
Yes, I use a topper. I made one from left-over bits of a quilt and used some of the insul-brite in it so it keeps the food warm. It helps protect the table, too!
Sandy A
I do use table toppers and change them with the seasons/holidays.
I left a comment on fabri-quilt blog.
I have an Autumn one. I love fall colors. I would like to make a Spring one.
I left a comment on the Fabri-Quilt blog.
The only time I use a table topper is at Christmas. I usually just keep placemats on the table. Thank you for the giveaway.
(Your deck looks wonderful.)
I like the way placemats or runners finish the look of a table and stop the clatter of plates. Thank you for the chance ")
Yes, there is a little quilt in the middle of the table with candles and the napkin holder. We also use place mats. Great pattern.
I always have a table topper on my dining room table.
I left a comment on the Fabri-Quilt blog.
lin.web.28 at gmail dot com
I always have a runner, placemats, or a table topper on our kitchen table… Otherwise it looks naked!! Just love your table topper and placemats.. Those fabrics are so pretty!!!
I use quilted placemats as table toppers.
lin.web.28 at gmail dot com
Truthfully? my table topper is dust. Or newspapers, or magazines. The old joke has been in this household: a flat surface is a challenge! YOUR tabletopper is lovely.
And when you finish with your deck, would you like to tackle mine? It needs work.
I left a comment on the tutorial. Your table topper is so fresh and summer it reminds me of sherbet!
I keep table runners only on the table-tops we don't use on a daily basis, not on our dining table. (But then I tend to put other things on top of those toppers…it's an ongoing issue here, the horizontal clutter one.)
Congratulations on sealing the deck. Now that it is done you can get back to quilting again.
I left a comment for the bonus entry. Thanks, Kathy
kdavis1@centurytel.net
Yes I use table toppers on my tables.
kdavis1@centurytel.net
i left a comment over there
i do in the living room , in the dining room my topper is my sewing machines
I guess I'm old fashioned. I use vintage tablecloths. I made a table runner for Christmas that hasn't been used yet.
I love seasonal table runners. I enjoy changing the look of my table just by using different runners and placemats. Cute design!
I just finished leaving a comment on the Inspired by Fabric's blog. Crossing my fingers!
I don't use a table topper on the table we eat on–my husband always has it covered with newspapers & magazines so it would get lost. Instead, I use a table runner on our coffee table. This one would be awesome, and easy, to make…thanks for the tutorial & giveaway!
I left a comment on the Fabri-quilt blog. Thanks for the great tutorial!
I don't use a table runner, since we usually eat at the island in the kitchen. I like to make table runners to put on the coffee tables.
I use table runners on my table. I have not used a table topper before, but I might now!
I also left a comment on Fabric-Quilt's blog. Thanks.
I use both placemats and table toppers. I love this pattern. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Only at Christmas! Though I use place mats every day and I made about 10 patchwork tablerunners for my wedding tables 🙂
I left a comment over at Inspired by Fabric.
No, I dont't use table toppers, but I do use place mats and table runners.
Thanks for the tutorial!
I just downloaded the tutorial and commented on the tutorial post at Inspired by Fabric.
I use a table topper and placemats, except when really messy children come to eat with us, and then we have an oilskin tablecloth! Aren't I horrible?! I love your table topper; it's a pretty design and made of such beautiful summery fabrics.
I do not have a table topper on the kitchen table since we eat there, but there is an ever changing table topper on the table in the living room.
Bonus entry here…I posted on Fabri-Quilts blog about how lovely your table topper is!
Connie, since it's just my hubby and me eating at the island most nights, we don't use a table topper. I always have a pretty one on the dining room table, but even that comes off when dining with company. We just aren't fancy eaters here, I guess.
The small quilt looks so cute on the bench and on the table.
Your deck looks so inviting with the river and the greenery as a backdrop. Sealing them is a lot of work but so worth it. We will probably seal our new deck in the fall sometime. We wanted to wait until it cures all summer.
I usually have something going on that I am using the table so until recently never used one but…..my cat Riley decided that he needed to keep an eye on everything I'm doing so he recently started laying on the table to keep watch. I quickly made him his very own table protector.
I left a comment on the Fabri-quilt blog.
I use a table topper on a side table. Our dining table is rectangular and I use placemats and trivets or a runner.
I have table toppers on my reading table, which the cat thinks I make just for her…Lovely topper and great tutorial…
I don't use a table topper, but I often think I should.
I use a table topper on the little table I have in my living room. I love those marbled fabrics. Beautiful!!
I don't have one all the time, but like to change what is on the table to change the look of the room.
determineddebby at gmail dot com
I make tabletoppers and placemats for us but they have a tendency to go home with company. I actually have a friend who calls to let me know that she is need of tabletoppers for different occasions.
I use table toppers on our wood table, and placemats then I get upset if people stain them.
I do like to use a table runner on my kitchen table. I have no dining room sadly so I don't NEED to use either a topper or runner, or even placemats on my table to protect it. I just like using them, when I do have some and I used to have tons of them because my Mom always used them and it reminds me of her.
Right now the table I have though is just too narrow to enable the use of placemats and a table runner and depending on the size of a table mat, it may not even fit onto the table.
(for the record, I HATE, HATE my kitchen table! I was supposed to be temporary, but after having it now for over 15 yrs I am guessing that 'temporary' isn't the correct word any longer. HAHA)
Our dining table is so small that there is not enough room to put food on it if more than two people are setting at it, so, no I do not use a table topper. I do make them and often hang them on the wall.
I ordered an oak table and chairs from a Mennomite company. You picked the legs, the table edge, stain,….it was delivered and my cats would jump on it. Now it's grand kids banging on it…. So, suffice it to say that it's always been covered with a table protector, tablecloth, then placemats,,,so much for my custom set that I haven't seen uncovered for the last 20 years.LOL
Visited Fabri-Quilt blog too!
I use a table runner on the small table in the living room
Yes, I use table toppers. My table feels naked without one. Most often it's a big crocheted doily my mom made.
I use table mats and a runner in the middle but often swap them over for a seasonal table topper – always a good excuse to make another one!
Yes! I use table toppers and placemats!
I use table toppers on my coffee table and the bar. Our dining table has seasonal quilted placemats. Thanks for the giveaway, what scrumptious blenders!!
Visited "Fabri-Quilt" blog too!
THANKS AGAIN! msstitcher1214@gmail.com
HI,yes I do! Your is gorgeous!Sometimes I use a table cloth or runner too! Thank You! msstitcher1214@gmail.com
I have a table cloth on my table. Please don't look at the table cloth very closely because it is a Christmas table cloth. I never seem to take time to make a new table cloth.
I also left a comment on the Fabri-Quilt blog.
always have a table topper/runner out. And it's my favorite to make for gifts. BTW…your deck looks fabulous with the stain on it. Good job!
For the table where we eat every day I don't use a topper. I have trivets for hot dishes. But every other table in the house is a potential spot for a topper or runner. I currently have them on the seldom used dining room table, on a table in the foyer, and on two coffee tables.
Don't use anything on the kitchen table. The Dining Room table just gets a tablecloth. Sometimes decorations. 24Tangent@gmail.com
ps. I use a table topper on my organ bench. Right now it is a 'hand laced' piece a lovely lady in Mexico made for me while I was visiting there. L
Sorry you have to do that job in the heat, that's why I am waiting till fall to do mine. Thanks for the great tute. L
I've commented on the other blog, and pinned your tutorial too.
I've never even heard of a table topper until today – maybe we call them something different? We use table mats every day, but at Christmas and other special occasions, we have silver and gold chargers with a red or cream table cloth.
I also left a comment on Fabric-Quilt's blog. Thanks.
Your table topper seems to glow in the lighting, very pretty. I use table toppers on my tables, and I use place mats as well. Good luck with your staining. Thank you for the giveaway.
Yes we use a topper-placemats too and it's so fun to make your own!
I always use place mats and although I don't have a table topper now, I need to make one. Every time I make a table topper, someone sees it and wants it and I give in. One of these days I will learn how to say no.
Thanks for sharing your tutorials and for the opportunity to win this fat quarter bundle. Carline
bandcanthony@gmail.com
I use placemats, bought ones unfortunately!
Iain.ross30 at gmail dot com
No I don't use a table topper. I have a christmas runner, but it's removed when food is on the table (I wouldn't want the fabric to get scorched). I put hot dishes on thick cork mats to protect the table instead.
jen dot barnard at btinternet dot com
Yes! I do use a table topper on my table …place mats and/or a table runner.
I use a table topper all the time. It is usually a small quilt of some kind. Also use place mats all the time too. Have quite a collection of those. ( my husband could not eat a bowl of cereal with out a placemat, about the only thing he is fussy about.)
Thanks of a chance to win.
Not a placemat or table topper person, I use table clothes, but they would be cute wall hangings which I have up all the time.
I visited and left a comment on Fabric-Quilt's blog.
Yes, I use a table topper, more like a table runner, a beautiful piece of green fabric
I made my first tabletopper last month and I love it!! I want to make many more! 🙂
craftyccain@gmail.com
I do not currently use a table topper, but I'm planning on making one for the fall season. Thanks!
Just like the placemats, I only have a table topper (runner) at the holidays if company is coming over. Thanks for the chance, these fabrics are gorgeous!
dragonfly9716 at yahoo dot com
Such pretty fabric, Connie…I do always have a runner on my table
Along with my placemats, I DO use table toppers to protect my wooden table during mealtime and to make it pretty in between meals. Love today's tabletop per. You are so clever.
I use table toppers – have so many from various swaps. Another way to change out the seasonal decor.