Tutorial: Color Block Wool Yoga Mat

Since I started doing yoga regularly in January, I decided it was time I had a yoga mat. I made this one using wool from a cut-up blanket. This project is a good use for a worn or stained blanket. Because of the piecing, it is easy to work around damaged areas.

The one downside to a mat like this is that it is quite slippy on a wooden floor. The upside it that is is very soft, just the right thickness and can be thrown in the washer. A modified version of this mat, in a large square perhaps, would also make a great play mat for kids. 

How To Make a Yoga Mat from a Wool Blanket:

Before beginning, wash the blanket with very hot water and plenty of detergent. This will result in partial felting of the wool and prevent the finished mat from shrinking with repeated washings. 

Step One: Cut out the pieces according to the cutting diagram. Dye the individual pieces after they are cut out. I used Pearl Gray Rite dye and a combination of orange and lime Kool-aid for the butterscotch color.  
 

Step Two: Assemble the top of the mat by sewing pieces B, C and B together according to the diagram. Press the seams flat. Piece A is the underside of the mat. 

 

Step Three: Place the top of the mat and the bottom of the mat right sides together and stitch around the outside, leaving a large enough opening at one end to turn the whole thing right side out. Back stitch the seam at the edges of the opening to prevent it raveling out from the stress of turning. Clip the corners.

Step Four: Turn and press. Hand stitch the opening closed.