DIY leather placemats & coasters

On a safe surface, using the ruler as a guide, cut leather into four 12- by 15-in. placemats.

Coral von Zumwalt

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Materials

• Half-hide of raw, undyed upholstery leather (leatherunltd.com); you’ll need 7 sq. ft. for 4 placemats and 4 coasters
• Metal right-angle ruler
• Utility knife
• Pencil
• Neon leather paint (such as Angelus)
• Flat-tip paintbrushes

Directions

1. On a safe surface, using the ruler as a guide, cut leather into four 12- by 15-in. placemats.
2. Create a 1-in. border around each placemat by roughing in a striped pattern with light pencil marks.
3. Paint the border in contrasting colors. Let dry and apply another coat if needed.
4. From leather scraps, cut four 31/2- by 31/2-in. coasters. Repeat painting process within a 1/4-in. border.

Project by Heather Taylorm who is co-owner of art gallery Taylor De Cordoba and has just launched a linen line, Heather Taylor Home, inspired by her travels. heathertaylorhome.com