By Sew to Speak Staff
Scraps – we all have them, and we don’t always know what to do with them. From tiny fabric remnants to leftover yarn balls, our scraps often sit idly in our craft spaces, just waiting for inspiration to strike. We end up keeping bits and pieces from all of our past projects, fantasizing that, someday, we will find the perfect use for them. Instead of letting them pile up and collect dust, roll up your sleeves and turn them into something beautiful and useful! This blog will explore creative ways to use fabric scraps, alongside fun scrap-busting ideas for knitters and crocheters, too.
Unleash your creativity with these eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and satisfying scrap-busting projects that will not only declutter your space but also give new life to your leftover materials.
Creative Ways to Use Fabric Scraps for Sewists
Fabric scraps, whether they’re small bits or larger leftovers, can be repurposed into incredible projects. Here's how you can turn those unused pieces into stunning DIY creations.
Get Patchy with Fabric Scraps
Cut your fabric scraps into the same size shape — you can go for squares, half square triangles, hexies, and more. Next, piece them together to make patchwork yardage that you can use for endless projects. Patchwork panels make wonderful pillows, tote bags, zipper pouches, or even full garments, such as pajama pants. The options are truly endless!
If you are looking for a little more guidance for this scrap-busting project, check out our in-person quilt-as-you-go class, where you’ll learn how to make a cute, patchwork zipper pouch.
Making a bag from patchwork panels is just one of many creative ways you can use fabric scraps to make something brand new!
Make Fabric Scrap Minis
Tiny scraps can still make a big impact! Whatever you love to make, consider creating mini versions from your leftover scraps. Do you love to quilt? You can make a mini quilt version – a mug rug or drink coasters. Are you a bag maker? You can try making up some zipper pouches to get organized. Are you working on your own Me-Made wardrobe? Use some of those scraps to mend past makes or add fun applique designs to your next project. Add pockets, patches, and more to bags and clothes for a unique touch.
When you find projects that bring you joy, stick with them! Making minis can be one of the most joyful and creative ways to use fabric scraps. Check out this class at Sew to Speak to learn how to make a zipper pouch.
Party With Your Fabric Scraps
When life leaves you with a bin full of scraps, throw a party! Whatever the season, you can find a reason to celebrate and decorate! Bunting banners, fabric garlands, and throw pillows can all be made from small pieces of fabric. Mix and match your favorites to create new, inspiring combinations. Combine bold prints or coordinate colors for a cohesive look. Not celebrating anything in particular? Who needs a reason? Decorate your space just for fun and enjoy your handiwork every day.
Creative Ways to Use Fabric Scraps for Knitters and Crocheters
For knitters and crocheters, leftover yarn can be just as versatile as fabric scraps. With a little creativity, those tiny yarn balls can lead to impressive results.
Go, Granny, Go!
The granny square is a classic that folks return to again and again for a reason: it’s simple, versatile, and leaves makers with endless options. This is not to mention how practical this project is for using up leftover yarn. Work through your stash of yarn and make any Granny Square that catches your eye. Before you know it, you will have enough to make a tote bag or a baby blanket. Feeling inspired? We offer classes that involve using up scraps. Please check out our classes to see our current offerings
Granny squares are a fun way to use leftover scraps to make something completely one-of-a-kind.
Scrap Busting Tiny Toys
Just a little yarn? Let’s make a little friend! The smallest balls of yarn can be given new life as adorable little toys. Stuffed animals, cat toys, and amigurumi are all great for scrap busting! Plus, these cute creations make for wonderful gifts!
These little creatures make lovely gifts for friends, kids, and kittens!
Stripes and Strips and Color Blocking, Oh My!
Do you have a collection of mismatched yarns? Combine them into new projects by experimenting with stripes, color blocking, or gradient designs. Mix and match your yarn leftovers to create new color palettes and fun new designs. Keep stitching and watch those skeins disappear! You can knit striped scarves, crochet colorful headbands, or create unique garments by blending colors creatively. This is the perfect way to breathe life into every last scrap of yarn.
Why Scrap Busting Matters
Scrap busting isn’t just about clearing out your crafting supplies; it’s about rethinking how we use materials. By repurposing scraps, you’re promoting sustainability, reducing waste, and saving money — all while creating something beautiful. These projects allow you to explore your imagination, learn new skills, and turn “leftovers” into works of art.
Don’t look at your scraps as a nuisance. Instead, see them as an invitation to create and experiment. Open your sketchbook, grab your materials, and lose the guilt — it’s time to get scrappy! Whether it’s pieced fabric for a quilted masterpiece or tiny toys crocheted from yard scraps, the possibilities are endless with some creativity and determination.
Start scrap busting today, and discover the joy of using every last bit!
About the Author
At Sew to Speak, we are all about collaboration, and this blog post is no different! These words are a group effort with thoughtful input from our team.