Pouf Pillow and Baby Play Mat from Leftover Fabric

There are plenty of ideas for what to do with leftover fabric — for example, sewing soft pouf-style seat cushions or a baby play mat that keeps a child warm while playing in the winter. Any natural fabric works for these — the brighter the pattern, the livelier the room design will be. You can also sew ties onto the cushions and use them for stools and kitchen chairs.

Cutting

First, prepare the materials: 6 pieces measuring 25 by 18 cm and 6 pieces measuring 24 by 16 cm. Fabric for the bottom of the cushion, 55 by 55 cm, and a ruffle strip 10 cm wide. Batting, plus filling for the little pockets.

How to sew the pouf cushion

Pair up the smaller and larger rectangles. To do this, pin them together, matching the corners, and pinch a little tuck in the center.

Stitch all 6 pockets closed on 3 sides. Leave one short side open.

Next, sew the pieces together, joining them into strips of 3.

Stuff each pocket loosely with filling, smooth it out, and sew the strips together into one piece.

Sew the ruffle fabric into a circle, gather it to match the cushion's length, and sew it onto the front side.

The top of the pouf is ready.

Bottom of the cushion

Lay the batting onto the wrong side of the bottom piece and stitch it down on 4 sides. If you like, you can quilt it by hand or on the machine.

Lay the top and bottom pieces right sides together and stitch them, leaving a pocket for turning. Turn it right side out, stitch a finishing line close to the ruffle, closing the opening at the same time. Using the same method, but with more pockets, you can make a play mat for a little one to use in a stroller or nursery.