10 Practical Ways to Use Fabric Scraps

An overview for anyone who saves fabric scraps but is not quite sure how to use them. Here are ten ideas to turn leftovers into something useful or decorative.

Use needles, scissors, sewing machines and hot glue with appropriate care. Keep sharp tools, hot glue and small scraps away from young children, and supervise children who take part.

1. Fabric dolls

A lovely way to use every last piece of fabric, including outgrown children's socks.

2. Quilted pot holders and trivets

Useful in any kitchen. Reinforce the fabric with heat-resistant batting or another material suitable for pot holders.

3. Fabric baskets

They can hold craft supplies, stationery or toys.

4. Cushions

Round cushions with colourful wedge-shaped panels look especially cheerful. Choose prints that work well together.

5. Sleep masks

A small project with plenty of room for imagination and very little fabric required.

6. House-shaped sachets

Fill each house-shaped sachet with a suitable scented material; a hanging loop lets you place it where you like.

7. Tote bags

An artful arrangement of scraps can make a bag feel like a one-of-a-kind piece.

8. Double-sided cleaning cloths

Old terry towels combined with other fabric pieces can become practical reusable cleaning cloths.

9. Pincushions

Even the smallest scraps are enough for a distinctive handmade sewing accessory.

10. Cup sleeves

Sew a simple sleeve for a favourite travel tumbler or cup to make it more comfortable to hold.