Don't throw away those fabric scraps! Here are six creative and satisfying ways for quilters to use up even the smallest pieces — from scrappy nine-patches to donation quilts.
Every quilter knows the feeling: you finish a project and you're left with a pile of beautiful fabric scraps that you just can't bring yourself to throw away. The good news? You don't have to. Here are some of our favourite scrap buster ideas to put those precious pieces to good use.
1. Scrappy Nine-Patch Blocks
The nine-patch is one of the most classic quilt blocks, and it's perfect for scraps. Cut your fabric into uniform squares, sew them together in a three-by-three grid, and you've got a block. Make dozens in different colour combinations and sew them together for a cheerful, scrappy quilt that uses up even the smallest pieces.
2. Patchwork Pouches and Zipper Bags
Sew your scraps together into a patchwork panel, then use it to make a small zipper pouch or cosmetic bag. These make wonderful gifts and are a great way to use up strips and small pieces. Even a handful of scraps can become something beautiful and functional.
3. Fabric Bookmarks
Got scraps that are too small for almost anything else? Make bookmarks! A strip of fabric about 2" x 8", folded and stitched, makes a lovely bookmark. Add a bit of embroidery or a decorative stitch for extra charm. They're quick, satisfying, and make great gifts for the readers in your life.
4. Scrappy Table Runner
A table runner is a perfect scrap project — it's long and narrow, so it's ideal for using up strips and rectangles. Sew your scraps into a strip-pieced panel, add borders if you like, quilt it, and bind it. You'll have a beautiful, one-of-a-kind table runner that showcases all your favourite fabrics.
5. Donation Quilts
If your scrap pile has truly gotten out of hand, consider making a donation quilt. Many local shelters, hospitals, and community organizations welcome handmade quilts. It's a wonderful way to use up your scraps while giving back to your community — and there's no better feeling than knowing your fabric is keeping someone warm.
6. String Quilting
String quilting is a traditional technique where you sew long, narrow strips of fabric ("strings") onto a foundation — often a square of muslin or paper. It's endlessly forgiving, uses up even the tiniest scraps, and produces wonderfully scrappy, colourful quilts. Once you start string quilting, you'll never look at a skinny scrap the same way again.
Looking for fabrics to add to your scrap collection? Browse our Fabric collection — we're always bringing in new prints and colours that are perfect for scrappy quilting. And if you'd like to learn more quilting techniques, check out our upcoming classes.
