What to Do with Leftover Embroidery Floss

After finishing cross-stitch projects, you may have lengths of floss that are too short for another full design. Small bundles and even 10 cm scraps can still be useful for relaxing, one-of-a-kind stitching. This idea also gives leftover Aida canvas a purpose: the finished fabric can become a purse, wallet, clutch, makeup bag, or throw pillow.

Where should you start? Choose the shortest pieces of embroidery floss and secure them at the center of the design. Stitch a small square, such as 4 × 4 cross stitches. Decide at the outset whether to work clockwise or counterclockwise. Finish each “round” with 1 cross stitch to the left or right of the base so that the design grows in a spiral.

Change floss colors as you go, securing the ends on the back each time.

The finished piece resembles a tapestry.

Before turning the stitched canvas into a finished item, reinforce the back with fusible interfacing.

Idea: If you have a small rectangular piece of Aida left over, work it in the same way, but begin with a rectangle in your chosen stitch count instead of a square. Thanks to Ego_hobby Embroidery for the idea 💐.