You’re my people, I am your people. So, let’s be honest – we’ve all got that bin (or in my case, bins). You know the one that’s overflowing with tiny pieces of fabric that were just too cute to toss? Maybe you had big plans to use them right away, or maybe you figured, ‘Future me will totally thank past me when she needs this teeny-tiny triangle.’ Yeah, scrap stashes are my jam, too.
Listen, I get it. You are doing your share to keep materials out of the landfills. The dollars you spent on these material snippets were hard-earned – and you know you’ll use them! Well, guess what? That day has come.
Fabric scraps you’ve been hoarding…er…I mean saving are perfect for bite-sized projects that pack a punch. Whether you’ve got a basket of tiny bits or a drawer full of fat quarter leftovers, here are plenty of ideas to finally put them to good use.
Small But Mighty Scrap Projects
Here are some of my favorite ways to give scraps new life:
Wallets & Coin Purses. Scraps are perfect for mini zipper pouches and snap wallets. You only need a few small pieces and some interfacing to make something useful and adorable.
Key Fobs. One of the easiest and most giftable projects! Add a little hardware and you’ve got a quick sew that looks fancy. Make one to match all of your bags!
Headbands & Hair Accessories. Great for kids (or kids-at-heart). Try scrap-wrapped headbands, scrunchies, or even no-sew options like fabric-covered clips.
Gift Tags & Gift Wrap Accents. These are one of the most underutilized ways to use fabrics scraps, in my opinion. Use pinking shears or decorative scissors to cut fun shapes. Stitch or glue onto cardstock for reusable, eco-friendly gift tags that double as keepsakes.
Pin Cushions. Needle minders, wrist pin cushions, or classic stuffed versions—scraps are all you need. Go one step further and use crushed walnut shells for weight and sharpening.
Fabric Twine. Make yourself some fabulous festive twine to craft all those twiny things! You can use fabric twine to create a hanging macrame planter, as ribbon accents on gifts, coil and glue it onto a plant pot, cover styrofoam ball ornaments, wrap it around a bangle bracelet, make bowls, weave it into potholders, coasters, or rugs. {DIY Scrap Fabric Twine}
Bold & Chic Wrapped Hangers. These cute hangers do double duty by helping your clothes stay securely in place. It’s the perfect scrap-busting project that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face every time you open your closet! {DIY Scrap Fabric Wrapped Hangers}
Holiday Ornaments. Fabric scraps + a little stuffing = instant holiday cheer. Think stars, hearts, mittens, or patchwork trees.
Fabric Flowers. Whether you’re adding a handmade touch to gifts, decorating a wreath, or sprucing up a tote bag, these adorable flowers are as fun to make as they are to use! {DIY Make Fabric Flowers Tutorial}
Soft Toys. Tiny animals, fabric blocks, or felt/fabric mash-ups—perfect for gift giving or for using up those sentimental prints.
Pot Holders & Mug Rugs. Useful, beginner-friendly, and a great excuse to play with patchwork.
Fabric Bracelets. Twist, braid, or wrap strips into fun jewelry pieces. Add a snap or a button and you’re good to go.
Fabric Twine. Twist or braid narrow strips together to make rustic, colorful twine for tying up gifts or decorating packages. {Check out this post on making fabric twine!}
Covered Buttons & Magnets. Use fabric scraps to cover buttons or flat magnets. These make cute add-ons to any gift or sewing project. {Check out this post on fabric buttons!}
Reusable Kitchen Sponges. There are so many compelling reasons to make your own zero-waste, reusable kitchen sponges! No matter why you make them, scrubby kitchen sponges are easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy to make. This is a quick sewing project that can be easily completed in an hour. {DIY Zero-Waste Kitchen Sponges}
Mini Baskets & Bowls. Coiled fabric baskets are a fun way to show off prints and get organized. Try with or without rope (just keep machine strength in mind).
Pennant Banners. Perfect for parties, nurseries, or craft room décor. Mix and match colors for a charming, scrappy vibe. {Check out this post on making pennant banners for every occasion!}
Patchwork Projects. From quilt blocks to fabric bookmarks, zip pouches to notebook covers—patchwork makes every little piece count.
Fabric Wrapped Wooden Spoons. What a perfect way to use up your fabric stash and create something unique and practical. Craft a wooden spoon set that matches your kitchen or make a delightful personalized gift for friends and family. {DIY Fabric-Wrapped Wooden Kitchen Spoons}
Thoughts Over Coffee
Let’s wrap this up with a couple of extra ideas to put those adorable scraps to good use and keep them from taking over the sewing room.
Sort Your Scraps by Size or Color
If you’re overwhelmed by your scraps (no judgment—same), try sorting them into bins:
- Tiny scraps – think appliqué, covered buttons, twine
- Small scraps – perfect for wallets, gift tags, pincushions
- Larger scraps – ideal for baskets, headbands, and patchwork fun
When your scraps are sorted, it’s so much easier to dive in when inspiration strikes.
Scrap Challenge Time!
Feeling brave? Try a scrap-a-day challenge for a week and see how much you can transform.
Even better—host a Scrap Swap with sewing friends. One person’s leftover lemon fabric might be someone else’s lemonade moment. (Plus, the entry fee is totally cookies.)