Repurposing Fabric Scraps
Author: Ella Holmes Date Posted:20 January 2023
As sewists and crafters, we’re very familiar with scraps! Some of them are too small or funky-shaped to be made use of in your regular projects like quilts, and it seems like such a waste, doesn’t it? Well, don’t despair! I've put together a list of ways you can make use of those leftovers.
But first, why should you use up those pesky scraps instead of throwing them away?
- You'll make more unique, one-of-a-kind items
- You'll save money
- You'll reduce your contribution to textile waste, which helps our planet!
Let's get sewing!
Little Scrunchies
This project is great for kiddies needing their hair tied up for school.
Fabric Tape
If you’ve got long, thin scraps, attach some double-sided tape to the wrong side of the fabric and you have some nice tape that you can use for wrapping presents.
Stuffing
You can use scraps as stuffing for things like fabric stress balls, or even ottomans! The fabric will make them weighty and solid.
Scrapbooking/Craft
Try glueing fabric scraps on your scrapbooking projects to add colour and texture. It’s especially great if you’re trying to achieve a more natural and crafty look!
Cord Organisers
Take a rectangle of fabric and add a snap or magnetic button to it, so you can keep your wound-up cords neat.
Fabric Rope
Cut your scraps into thin rectangles and tie them together for a nice and colourful rope. These ropes can be used to make hangers for pot plants, and other projects.
Scrap Quilt
If your scraps are just big enough, you may be able to make a whole quilt top out of them! Imagine that - a quilt made from pieces of the other quilts you’ve made through the year!
Shoelaces
If your scraps are long enough, try making them into shoelaces for extra unique styling.
Bag Tags
Spot your luggage straight away by sewing yourself a little luggage tag out of scraps.
Fabric Mache
With a little glue and fabric, you can use your scraps for things like school projects, or even make little fabric bowls for holding sewing tools!
Loops
Got anything you’d like to hang up on a hook, like a face washer or a tea towel? Use little scrap pieces to make loops that can be sewn or clipped on with snap buttons.
Pom Poms
With your fabric scraps tied into a cord/rope, try making little pom poms. They’re great for Christmas tree decorations.
Canvas Art
Get your glue and start sticking fabric to a canvas. Colour coordinate, or just go wild! You’ll have a totally unique artwork to hang in no time.
In the Hoop Embroidery Projects
Your scraps may be just the right size for those little elements of applique.
Collage
Try a fabric collage technique. There are many collage projects available that ask for little pieces of fabric to make colourful and complex designs.
Paper
Yep, that’s right! You can make paper from cotton fabric scraps. It’s perfect for things like roleplaying, dress-up, and making authentic-looking props!
Donate
See if your local school has a need or use for fabric scraps. You never know!
If your scraps aren't too small, or you've got something you're thinking of scrapping, you can also check out our collection of free upcycling projects! View Projects →
Now that you've got some ideas for making use of your fabric scraps, we encourage you to get creative and see what you can make! If this article has inspired you to create something, don’t forget to show us your finished projects on Instagram or Facebook #echidnasewing #madebyme
