Looking for a fast and thoughtful gift? Turn a rogue quilt block into a charming mug rug!
When I purchased my sewing machine in 2017, I decided against the embroidery module, thinking I didn’t need it. Fast forward to 2025, and I found myself regretting that decision. Thankfully, I was able to buy the module from my local BERNINA dealer.
Eager to dive in, I couldn’t wait to experiment with some rogue quilt blocks I had stored away.
While doing a bit of research beforehand is always wise, there’s so much to be learned from hands-on mistakes. Here’s what my first attempt with my module taught me:
- Use more spray baste than you think you need. This keeps the block from shifting during embroidery. See below how the block shifted?
- Consider the block seam allowance when setting up the embroidery on your block. I didn’t do that for the Sawtooth Star and the quilting extends into the seam allowance.
3. Pay close attention to thread starts and stops. I pulled the thread when I began and managed to mess up a small section. Don’t do that. LOL.
4. Embrace imperfection. Even if the embroidery isn’t flawless, there’s always a way to turn it into something fun.
Enter the mug rugs.
I needed end-of-year gifts for a few teachers and thought these embroidered blocks would make perfect mug rugs. To conceal a few mistakes, I cut the rugs into circles and finished them with leftover bias binding.
I began by marking the center of each block and marking the center of my template. I put the template over the block and marked the edge with chalk.
I trimmed the block the attached scrap bias binding to each mug rug.
Paired with a mug and a gift card to a local coffee shop, the result was a simple yet heartfelt success!
