I never liked my living room rug. I purchased under duress, when we had just moved into our home and needed a rug fast.

My dining room is another story. I adore the rug in there, but I don't care for the overall look of the room. What I had hoped would be dramatic and even a little exotic turned out to just be too dark and missing that "certain something."

Then it occurred to me. Why not flip these rugs? So in the spirit of FreeStyle and Flip This House, I set off to do just that.

Peruse my gallery to see the before and after photos, and join me after the break for more details of "the flip."

Are you looking to add a little flair to your everyday dining? or maybe you want some seasonal place mats. Either way, making your own gives you the most flexibility, and it only costs as much as the fabric you choose (which can be nothing depending on how full your scrap bag is).

The 7 step instructions, accompanying pictures and tips come together to show you how to make fabulous looking cloth place mats. Here's what you'll need to get started.

1. Fabric of choice
2. Scissors
3. Sewing machine
4. Thread

Have fun and get creative with the fabric. You could make a holiday set as a gift, or craft something for your own dining room table.