Dresden Plates Table Runner & Mug Rug – a Pattern Set

The February Make & Take Monthly pattern is ready, and it’s a fun one—a Dresden Plate table runner with a matching mug rug.

This set is perfect if you want a quick, satisfying project that uses scraps, adds a pop of color, and doesn’t turn into a long-term commitment. The Dresden plates look impressive but are very doable, even if you’ve never made one before.

Inside the February project, you’ll get:

• The full table runner + mug rug PDF pattern
• Step-by-step video instruction
• A ready-to-use Dresden plate template
• Bonus PDF showing how to make your own Dresden plate template (for custom sizing or future projects)

This project is great for using leftover fabrics, testing color combinations, or just sewing something cheerful during the winter months.

If you’ve ever wanted to try Dresden plates but didn’t want to commit to a full quilt (or wrestle with a pile of blades), this is a great place to start. These projects are small, manageable, and very forgiving—exactly the kind of sewing that feels good to finish.

Dresden plates are one of those classic quilt elements that look impressive but don’t have to be complicated. In this set, they’re used in a relaxed, mix-and-match way that lets you play with color and scraps without overthinking it.

You can:

• Use coordinating fabrics for a clean look
• Pull random scraps for a scrappier feel
• Repeat one color story or make every plate different

There’s no “right” way here—just a solid method that works.

About the Projects

The Table Runner
The table runner uses multiple Dresden plates spaced out along the length, making it a fun statement piece without feeling heavy or busy. It works well on dining tables, sideboards, or even a long coffee table.

The Mug Rug
The mug rug is a smaller version that’s quick to sew and perfect for using leftover blades from the runner—or for testing your fabric choices before committing to the bigger piece.

Together, they make a nice little set, but each project also stands on its own.

Dresden Plate Templates (You’ve Got Options)

This pattern includes:

• A ready-to-use Dresden plate template inside the pattern
• An additional PDF that walks you through making your own Dresden plate template

If you like flexibility (changing blade size, plate size, or just understanding how things work), the extra PDF is a great add-on. If you’d rather just print and sew, the included template has you covered.

No quilt police here—use what works best for you.

Skill Level + Time Commitment

This is a confident-beginner-friendly project. You’ll want to be comfortable with:

• Basic cutting
• Straight-line stitching
• Turning and pressing fabric

Because the projects are smaller, you can realistically finish one (or both!) without the project dragging on—which is kind of the whole point of Make & Take.

Fabric + Scraps Friendly

Dresden plates are excellent for using:

• Scrap piles
• Leftover precuts
• Fabrics you love but don’t have a lot of

You don’t need yardage for this project unless you want it. Small pieces work beautifully, and mixing prints adds a lot of charm.

Just looking at getting the pattern? Get access to inside the Make & Take Monthly Membership here.

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