What to make? Some kind of patchwork table runner type thingamy?!

[Flubba]

I've got various fabric scraps left over and want to have a go at some patchworking for a present for my parents ~ something like a table-runner/ or a table cloth centrepiece type thing. I've thought of a couple of ideas but haven't actually got a real plan of what I'm making yet. Basically I have a whole bunch of fabric of reds and a couple of creams and a couple of greens (but nothing big enough to use as a table runner main material), so thought I'd make something. Any ideas about what I can attempt?!

(btw, although okay with a sewing machine, I've never tried patchwork before but willing to give it a go...!)

Thanks in advance! :)

How about something like this
www.freepatterns.com/detail.html?code=FQ00436&cat_id=434

Your colours would give it a christmas feel, there are no triangles so it should be easy. Personally, I would not use wadding, I would use a piece of calico for the inner layer, this way it will sit flat on the table.

Bizarre, thought I'd replied but it's disappeared.

Try again; thanks pleiades I might give something like that a go, although that one looks far too tricky for me, but I like the idea of having one or two subdued background colours to base my bright colours on.

what about something like this?

or this

Ooh they both look lovely dizzyday but way beyond my capabilities, sadly :(
Thank you though

What skill level are you and I'll have a look for a pattern for you

How about www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=394837.0 or www.gussysews.com/2011/08/saturday-craft-blessed-nest-table-runner/ or www.designsponge.com/2010/07/sewing-101-machine-applique.html

Thanks patchworkchick (I take it you're a pro! :)) - I like the two simple ones. I may have to see if I can get some decent length out of the cream material for backing, and may have a go at one of those. I could do some hexagons - I like how they fit together, or I could do some more 'floaty' circles, maybe floating off around a tree base or a plant stem type thing... Hmm.

dizzy Thank you - I'm basic, basic, basic :( these are some of the things I've made so, as you can see, I'm willing to give things a go, but for an intricate present (that will be seen close-up ), I'm not so confident.

Flubba - you have made a roman blind and still say your skills are basic? I know how tricky they can be! From the pics of your previous makes I can see you having no problem at all with any of the patterns linked to so far. Be Brave - you can do it

It was quite easy though (if a little labour-intensive). Straight lines (and big pieces too!). :)

Thanks for advice and tips, this is what I've ended up making