In this article, I want to show you some delightfully crafty ways to use scrap fabric. You know, in the world of sewing, even the smallest piece of fabric can become the star of the show.
I’ll admit it: I’m a fabric hoarder. There, I said it. My sewing room sometimes looks like a textile shop exploded, but I can’t bear to part with even the tiniest scrap. You know that feeling when you’re about to toss a three-inch square of that gorgeous floral print, and suddenly it feels like you’re abandoning a puppy? Yeah, that’s me.
But recently, I’ve been on a mission to be more environmentally friendly with my sewing habits. I carefully select beautiful fabrics, and the thought of any of it ending up in a landfill makes me sad. So, I’ve been trying to use every last piece.
Fellow fabric enthusiasts, I know you’re out there, sometimes even hiding your stash from judgmental spouses and friends who just don’t understand why you need 27 shades of pink. So, I’ve compiled a list of scrap fabric projects that will justify our collective hoarding behavior and maybe even impress those naysayers.
From transforming scraps into quirky coasters to crafting the world’s most eclectic dog bandana, we’ll explore ways to turn our fabric “problem” into delightful solutions. By the time we’re done, we might even be able to see our sewing rooms decluttered again. (No promises, though.)
So, let’s turn those precious scraps into something spectacular. Because in our world, there’s no such thing as useless fabric – just projects waiting to happen.
#1. Easy Scrap Fabric Projects: Fabric Corner Bookmarks Tutorial
Are you a sewist drowning in a sea of fabric scraps? Or perhaps you’re a newbie looking for easy sewing projects for beginners? Well, these sewn bookmarks are the perfect solution for both. In this guide, we’ll transform those precious fabric leftovers into charming, functional fabric bookmarks DIY style. It’s a fantastic way to use up those 3.5″ x 3.5″ squares.
This project isn’t just one of those cute sewing projects – it’s practical too. These adorable corner bookmarks from fabric make wonderful gifts for book lovers, teachers, or anyone who appreciates handmade charm. So, grab your fabric scraps, and let’s dive into one of the most satisfying small sewing projects you’ll ever tackle. This tutorial will guide you through each step of creating these homemade bookmarks with a sprinkle of humor and a whole lot of crafting joy.
#2. How To Make An Owl Pincushion | A Sewing Tutorial Plus A Free Pattern
Who-o-o’s ready for a hoot of a project? This owl pincushion is the perfect way to turn your fabric scraps into a new sewing buddy that’s both adorable and useful. Don’t worry if you’re still finding your wings in the sewing world – this project is so easy, even a fledgling sewist can tackle it with just basic stitches and a smidgen of fabric-cutting know-how.
This owl isn’t just a pretty pincushion – it’s a practical helper that’ll keep your pins in order and make you smile every time you reach for a pin. So grab your fabric scraps because it’s time to get owl-fired up about sewing.
#3. Easy Fabric Flowers |A Sewing Tutorial And A Free Pattern
With this scrap fabric project, you could make flowers bloom year-round without a green thumb. These fabric flowers swoop in to rescue bland outfits, jazz up boring accessories, and even save your home decor from the depths of dullness.
You don’t need to be a sewing wizard to make these beauties. With just a few sneaky hand stitches, you can be churning out a whole flower garden. In fact, you’ll go from scrap to spectacular in about 15 minutes flat.
#4. DIY Memory Christmas Ornaments Using Cherished Family Clothing
As the holidays approach, our hearts often turn to those we’ve loved and lost. What if you could capture those precious memories and make them a part of your Christmas celebrations? In this tutorial, I’m excited to share a special sewing project that does just that. We’ll be creating beautiful memory Christmas ornaments using cherished pieces of clothing from loved ones who are no longer with us.
This tutorial will guide you through transforming a simple piece of fabric into a heartfelt decoration that honors your memories. This project is a wonderful way to keep your loved ones close during the festive season. So, join me in crafting these meaningful keepsakes that will be treasured for years to come
#5. Create Your Own Yo-yo Christmas Tree: Step-by-step Tutorial
Discover a unique way to celebrate the festive season with this easy-to-follow scrap fabric tutorial on creating your very own fabric yo-yo Christmas tree. Perfect for crafters of all levels, this project is not only fun but also lets you infuse classic holiday scents using Balsam Fir Sachet Filling. Light up your creation with tiny LED lights and add a sparkle with a homemade golden star topper. Make your holiday decor truly one-of-a-kind.
#6. Fabric Yoyo Pumpkins: Fall Sewing Project
Fabric yoyo pumpkins – a fall hand sewing project that blends traditional techniques with seasonal charm. This tutorial guides you through creating yoyos, assembling the pumpkin, and adding felt leaves. Using velvet, cotton, or polyester fabric scraps, you’ll craft unique decorations perfect for autumn displays or Halloween decor. Enjoy this relaxing hand sewing project that showcases your crafting skills.
#7. How to Sew a Modesty Panel Cleavage Cover: Step-by-Step Tutorial
In this sewing tutorial, I will show you how to sew a custom modesty panel for a low-cut dress, perfect for adding coverage and comfort. I’ll take you through the steps of measuring, cutting, and sewing the panel, using a unique choice of fabric—silver silk chiffon with metallic threads. From drafting a simple pattern to the final touches of sewing it, I’ll cover the essential techniques needed. The focus will be on the sewing process itself, ensuring you can replicate this scrap fabric project with ease.
#8. How To Make An Over The Collar Dog Bandana | Free Pattern And Tutorial
Ever thought your dog needed a touch of disco flair? Well, hold onto your leash because we’re about to revolutionize doggy fashion! Picture this: an over-the-collar bandana that’s not just stylish, but also has LED lights tucked inside fabric. This isn’t your average tie-on bandana. Nope, this scrap fabric creation slips right over your dog’s collar. No more wrestling with knots or watching your pooch shake off their accessory mid-walk. So, if you’re ready to turn your pup into the talk of the dog park, grab those fabric scraps and let’s get illuminating!
#9. Adorable DIY Needle Book | Easy Tutorial for Beginners
Sometimes my needles played hide-and-seek with me and I was turning my sewing room upside down in search of that elusive sharp pointy thing. But not anymore, after I made my needle book. This isn’t just a needle book. It’s a five-star hotel for my needles, complete with fancy name tags for each type. My denim needle won’t accidentally end up stitching delicate silk, causing a fabric meltdown. This needle book is made from fabric scraps that were destined for the bin. Talk about a rags-to-riches story. And it’s so easy to sew, that you might find yourself whipping up a whole library of needle books.
#10. DIY Barbie doll clothes patterns free printable
With this tutorial, you can turn your fabric scraps into haute couture for Barbie – the world’s most famous doll. We’ll whip up a top and skirt combo that’ll make Ken’s plastic jaw drop. And don’t worry if your fingers feel more like sausages than nimble fashion-design tools – this project is so easy, even Barbie herself could do it (if she wasn’t, you know, made of plastic).
Got a Cricut machine gathering dust? Time to wake it up. It’s about to become your pattern-cutting assistant. But if you’re more old-school, we’ve got printable patterns too. Either way, you’ll be following along step-by-step, transforming scraps into style. So, whether you’re looking for a fun activity with the kids or just want to live out your “Project Runway” fantasies on a 11.5-inch scale, grab those fabric scraps and let’s get the project started.
#11. DIY Dog Poop Bag Holder | Easy Scrap Buster Project
Got fabric scraps that are too small for a quilt but too pretty for the trash? Well, you can make glamorous dog poop bag holders and turn your dog walks from doo-doo duty to a fashion statement. It’s the fashion accessory your furry friends never knew they needed, and maybe the conversation starter you never knew you wanted.
This little wonder attaches to your dog’s leash so no more awkward pocket-patting dance or frantic bag searches while your dog gives you the “hurry up, human” look. With this handy holder, you’ll be the envy of the dog park – a true master of mess management. Because if you’re going to carry poop bags, you might as well do it with style, right?
#12. DIY Fabric Coasters | In The Hoop Embroidery Project
This in-the-hoop scrap fabric project is perfect for those of you who see your embroidery machine as an extension of your creative soul. These aren’t your grandma’s doilies, oh no. We’re talking about in-the-hoop magic: tiny fabric bits, trapped under clear vinyl like colorful insects in amber, but way more stylish. I’ve included a free design that’ll make your embroidery machine hum with joy. So, if you’re ready to save your tables from ring-shaped doom, let’s get this embroidery project started.
#13. How To Sew A Simple Headband | DIY Sewing Pattern
This is a scrap fabric project to turn those leftover stretchy fabric into crown-worthy creations. Fabric headbands are a fun and easy sewing project, even for beginners. You will need very little fabric to make one, so it’s a great way to use up fabric scraps. In this video tutorial, I will show you how to sew a simple fabric headband from stretchy fabric. In fact, I made three different headbands, so you can get an idea of the different looks you can achieve.
#14. DIY Sleep Mask From Natural Silk Fabric
With this tutorial, you can make your very own silk sleep mask. Imagine drifting off to dreamland with 100% silk caressing your eyelids. Our step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, complete with a free PDF pattern. But don’t let that constrain your creative genius. Want to bedazzle it? Go for it. Prefer it plain? That’s cool too. Me? I couldn’t resist adding a little embroidered sass. Nothing says “beauty sleep in progress” quite like “Leave me alone” stitched across your face. But hey, that’s just my brand of nighttime comedy.
#15. How To Make A Cute And Very Useful Wrist Pin Cushion {Step-by-Step Sewing Tutorial}
This wrist pincushion is about to become your new best friend. No more fumbling for pins or accidentally turning your floor into a minefield. This little gem is so easy to make, you could probably do it with your eyes closed (but don’t, because, you know, needles). Got fabric scraps? Perfect! This project is like a recycling bin for your fabric leftovers. There is a free pattern for you. Just print, cut, and voila! You’re on your way to pin-wielding greatness.
#16. How To Make A Scrunchie: 5 Different Methods
Got a fabric stash that’s threatening to take over your living space? Perfect! These scrunchies are like little fabric vacuums, sucking up your scraps and turning them into hair-raising fashion statements. This tutorial is your go-to guide for turning those fabric scraps into stylish hair accessories.
Perfect for beginners and seasoned stitchers looking for a quick, fun project, these scrunchies are a breeze to make. No need for fancy sewing skills here. If you can thread a needle without stabbing yourself more than three times, you’re overqualified. Grab your fabric, follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a collection of scrunchies in no time.
#17. Easy DIY Fabric Storage Pods | Free Pattern And Tutorial
Learn how to make fabric storage pods with this easy step-by-step sewing tutorial. These colorful baskets can be customized with your favorite colors and have many uses around the house. They’re perfect for storing sewing supplies, yarn, etc. I made them in two different sizes. The pattern is free for my subscribers.
#18. No-Sew Fabric Christmas Ornament to Easily Personalize Your Tree
Looking for a creative way to use up those fabric scraps from your last sewing project? Try making this simple no-sew Christmas ornament. It’s a fun and practical way to repurpose leftover fabric. This ornament is particularly great if you have young children around. Unlike fragile glass baubles, these soft ornaments won’t shatter if accidentally knocked off the tree. They’re safe for little hands to touch and explore.
For a festive look, consider using bright red fabric and adding some sparkly embellishments. The result is a cheerful ornament that will catch the light and add a merry glow to your Christmas tree. It’s an easy project that lets you create something special without needing any sewing skills.
#19. How to upcycle an old dress
I’m a fabric hoarder, right, but at the same time, I’m environmentally conscious sewist. So, when I have a pile of luxurious silk scraps I’m unable to part with them because “they might come in handy someday.” Well, that someday is today. Let’s give those lonely, forgotten garments in your closet a second chance at life. It’s like a fairy tale, but instead of a pumpkin turning into a carriage, your frumpy old dress transforms into a head-turning top. Magic? Nope, just good old upcycling.
#20. DIY Makeup Bag | Easy Project With Step-by-step Instructions
Ok, here is another practical way to use up those fabric scraps – sew a makeup bag. This project is perfect for sewist of all skill levels and can be completed in just a few hours. My step-by-step tutorial guides you through the process of creating a quilted makeup bag with a zipper closure. I’ve included many images and a video to help you visualize each step of the process.
You can easily customize the design to match your personal style or to complement your existing accessories. Choose fabrics that speak to you, whether that’s bold prints, subtle patterns, or solid colors. With a little creativity, you can transform your leftover fabric into a useful and attractive accessory. So your fabric scraps might just become your new favorite makeup bag.
#21. How To Make A Round Quilted Placemat | Free Printable Template
Learn how to make a placemat with this easy step-by-step tutorial. With just a few simple steps, you can create a placemat so stunning it’ll make your dinner guests forget about the food. (Okay, maybe not, but they’ll definitely be impressed!). I’m using paper piecing – it’s a great technique not only for beginners but for quilters of all levels.
We’ve reached the end of our scrap-tacular journey. I’m curious to know which projects you plan to make. Share your fabric triumphs in the comments below. For those who use Facebook, you’re welcome to share your work in my Sewing Tips and Tutorials Facebook group. It’s always inspiring to see how others interpret these projects. And if you’ve got some genius ideas for scrap fabric that we haven’t covered, spill the beans. Drop a comment and enlighten us with your fabric wisdom. Your brilliant suggestion might just spark the next sewing revolution.
