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This pattern was originally published on The Polka Dot Chair blog in 2022.
Love Space or know someone who does? Sew a spectacular Solar System Mug Rug using this free tutorial. With a bit of quilt as you go built in and some very simple raw edge applique- you will have an Out of This World project finished in no time!
Solar System Mug Rug Supplies
- Fabric for front and back of mug rug- Fat Quarter
- Fabric for planets and Sun- scraps
- Binding- 32″ X 2 1/4″ strip
- Batting
- Heat n Bond Lite or other sewable fusible adhesive
- Pattern template (to get the template, fill out the form below)
Prepare Applique
First, trace the planets and Sun onto the paper side of the Heat n Bond Lite. Second, cut out each one leaving a slight margin. Next, fuse the patterns onto the wrong side of the scrap pieces chosen for each one following the manufacturer’s instructions. Finally, cut out each planet and Sun on the traced line.
Assemble the Spectacular Solar System Mug Rug
Begin by cutting your Backing and Batting pieces to 9 1/2″ X 6 1/2″. Then, cut your Front fabric piece to 9″ X 6″.
Next, baste the layers together. I recommend basting spray, but you could also use a basting stitch.
Cut out the paper template on the outside line. Following that, cut away the template along the orbit line for Pluto. Afterwards, pin the template onto the Mug Rug Front, lining up the left edges.
Next, sew along the curved orbit line. Note: Do not sew through the paper, just next to the line.
Now, remove the paper backing from the Pluto applique piece. Use the template to position it and fuse into place.
Cut away the paper template along the next orbit line and repeat the sewing and applique positioning steps. Keep going until all of the orbit lines and applique pieces have been placed.
Finally, sew around each applique piece using a straight stitch or a narrow zig zag. Don’t forget to sew the line for Saturn’s rings.
Finishing the Solar System Mug Rug
Finish the mug rug by trimming away the excess batting and backing from the mug rug. Attach your binding as desired. If you are new to binding, I do have a video tutorial for how I add binding to small projects like this on my YouTube channel.
Now all that’s left is to enjoy your spacey mug rug!
If you enjoyed this pattern, or you’re looking for other mug rug patterns, I have another free pattern for a Mini Rainbow Mug Rug here.
If you make one of these mug rugs, I would love to see! Tag me on Instagram or Facebook @AmeroonieDesigns. Happy Sewing!!
