If you’re a maker, you probably have a bag (or a bin… or a closet) full of fabric scraps. Too small for most sewing projects, too good to throw away. It’s a universal truth: scraps multiply, and we hold onto them “just in case.”
The good news? There are endless ways to turn those little pieces into something beautiful and useful. Here are six of my favorite ways to give fabric scraps a second life—some I’ve been doing for years, and some I’ve picked up recently thanks to our creative reuse community.
1. Fabric Flowers 🌸
In our Teach Us series, Nancy Eisman shared her technique for making fabric floral pins and appliqués. Her method works with all sorts of fabrics—cotton, silk, denim—and turns even the smallest scrap into a bloom you can wear or stitch onto a bag, hat, or quilt.
It’s one of those satisfying projects where no two flowers look alike, and you can mix textures for truly unique results.
2. Scrap Quilt Squares
If you don’t have enough matching fabric for a full block, sew your scraps together into a larger panel and then cut that into quilt squares. The result is a one-of-a-kind, hodgepodge look that’s perfect for patchwork quilts, tote bags, or wall hangings.
It’s a great way to use irregular shapes and prints together—and it always feels a little magical to see mismatched pieces come together in a harmonious square.
3. Banners & Bunting
Fabric scraps are perfect for festive, reusable decorations. Cut them into triangles, rectangles, or any shape you like, then stitch or glue them to a long ribbon or bias tape.
Banners and bunting are quick to make, store flat, and can be used year after year for parties, markets, or even just everyday cheer in your studio.
4. Quilted Postcards & Stitched Paper Projects
Scraps aren’t just for fabric-on-fabric projects. Layer them with cardstock or upcycled cereal boxes to create quilted postcards, bookmarks, or greeting cards. You can machine stitch or hand stitch through both paper and fabric, and the texture is irresistible.
It’s an easy way to combine textile art with snail mail—send something that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
5. Custom Fabric Buttons
Cover button kits are inexpensive, easy to find, and addictive once you start. Use your favorite scraps to make fabric-covered buttons in any size, and you’ll never settle for plain ones again.
They make great statement details for jackets, bags, or upcycled clothing—and they’re also a fun way to make matching accessories like hair ties and cufflinks.
6. Handmade Appliqués
Fabric scraps are perfect for cutting out shapes—letters, animals, abstract forms—and turning them into appliqués for clothing, quilts, or bags.
You can fuse them on with iron-on adhesive or stitch them directly, and because they’re small, they’re a low-risk way to experiment with bold colors or patterns you might not use in a larger project.
Ready to Use Up Those Scraps?
Fabric scraps might seem like clutter, but they’re really just projects waiting to happen. Whether you turn them into flowers, bunting, buttons, or quilt squares, you’re not just using up leftovers—you’re making something with history, texture, and story.
If you try any of these ideas, share your results in the Peo Vee community. We’d love to see how you put your scraps to work.
✂️ Fabric Scrap Projects: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What can I make with small fabric scraps?
A: Small fabric scraps are perfect for projects like fabric flowers, custom buttons, handmade appliqués, quilted postcards, banners or bunting, and scrap quilt squares. Even the tiniest pieces can add color and texture to creative reuse projects.
Q: How do I use up fabric scraps in quilting?
A: Sew small scraps together to create larger panels, then cut them into quilt squares. This “scrap quilt” method produces a unique, hodgepodge look where no two blocks are exactly alike.
Q: Can I use fabric scraps for no-sew projects?
A: Yes! Try gluing scraps onto banners, bunting, or card stock for greeting cards. You can also use iron-on adhesives to attach fabric shapes as appliqués without sewing.
Q: What’s the best way to store fabric scraps?
A: Sort scraps by size, color, or type of fabric and store them in clear bins or labeled bags. This makes it easier to find what you need for small projects without digging through your whole stash.
Q: Can fabric scraps be recycled?
A: Many can be reused in crafting, donated to creative reuse centers, or repurposed into stuffing for cushions or toys. Textile recycling programs also accept clean, dry fabric scraps.
