Upcycle your fabric leftovers with 80+ versatile scrap fabric projects. From patchwork quilts to fabric bows, find your next creative endeavour here!
Updated Aug 2024
Are you one of those crafters who can’t bear to discard leftover fabric scraps from previous sewing projects? If so, you’re not alone. Turning these colourful fabric scraps into creative, functional items has become a passion for many. Embracing upcycling and repurposing allows us to transform what might be seen as waste into remarkable pieces.
In this exploration, I’ve compiled over 80 easy sewing projects and scrap fabric craft ideas perfect for utilizing those tiny pieces in our scrap bins.
From simple patchwork quilts to charming zipper bags, these scrap fabric projects are about more than just making do; they’re about creating something beautiful and functional. Whether you’re looking for a great project to use up a pile of fabric scraps or seeking the perfect gift idea that adds a personal touch, there’s something here for everyone.
The beauty of these scrap fabric projects lies in their versatility. They embrace different patterns, colours, and techniques, from fabric flowers to bowls. These projects are a great way to reduce waste while expressing your creativity.
What’s exciting is that many of these projects don’t require the constant use of a sewing machine, making them accessible to crafters of all skill levels. For those inclined towards sewing, many great tutorials and ideas await you.
Each project offers a lot of fun and the chance to create practical, everyday items like a pencil holder or a scraps pinboard. Most other materials you might require will be part of your craft essentials and nothing fancy. Whether you’re working with the smallest scraps or strips of fabric, these simple sewing projects will help you turn your excess fabric into extraordinary things.
What Fabric Scraps To Use
- Scrap bin trimmings and leftover material from other sewing projects are great for patchwork. Even the smallest scraps of fabric can be patchworked to make larger pieces.
- Un-donatable clothes: If I have an old shirt that has seen better days, and it’s in a particular pattern that I love, I will cut up the good bits of fabric into scraps to use.
- Fabric remnants, samples and swatches. I keep all the material swatches I get for free from furniture and interior stores. These are excellent ways to get free small fabric samples for projects.
- Fabric scraps can be used for decoupage and sewing. Check out these decoupaged IKEA Moppe mini drawers.
If you regularly visit this site, you will know I’m passionate about upcycling denim. For these projects, I use every part of a pair of jeans. Scrap denim fabric upcycled crafts can be seen with these no-sew jeans projects, what to craft with jeans seams, and upcycled jean pocket ideas.
Creative Ways to Use Scrap Fabric
Exploring creative ways to use scrap fabric can breathe new life into your crafting routine. Here are some simple projects and practical ideas to inspire you:
- Fabric Bows and Accessories: Use small fabric scraps to create stylish hair bows, brooches, and other accessories. These make great gift ideas and add a personal touch to any outfit.
- Braided Rugs: Turn strips of fabric into beautiful braided rugs. This easy project, which can be done with colourful fabric scraps, adds a cosy feel to your home decor.
- Patchwork Quilts: Create unique patchwork quilts using fat quarters and little scraps of fabric. This is a great way to use different fabrics and make something unique.
- Fabric Crafts for Home Decor: Make functional items like fabric bowls, coasters, and placemats. These projects are practical and add a handmade touch to your home.
- Simple Sewing Projects for Beginners: Even if you’re new to sewing, there are plenty of great projects to try. Start with simple items like fabric bookmarks, keychains, or a fabric-covered notebook.
These practical projects and fabric crafts demonstrate that you can turn a lot of scrap fabric into beautiful and functional items with a little creativity. Whether using the smallest scraps or larger fabric leftovers, there’s always a new project waiting to be discovered.
Embrace the challenge of transforming your scrap fabric into something amazing. With these easy sewing projects and creative ideas, you’ll find endless possibilities to explore and enjoy.
Do you have a pile of fabric scraps from other craft projects or fabric sample swatches?
This is a list of over 80 beautiful ideas for the scraps. Make them for yourself or give them as gifts; from practical and applicable to fun, decorative and frivolous, various fabric crafts inspire everyone.
DIY Jellyfish Craft: Make Ocean Magic from Scrap Fabric
If you want something fun and whimsical to make with your fabric remnants, these jellyfish are just the thing. They are made with just little pieces of fabric.
How to make DIY feathers From Upcycled Fabric Scraps
These fabric DIY feathers are made in a very similar way to my very popular denim feathers. They are made with scraps of tartan and plaid fabrics, giving them lovely patterns and colours. This is an addictive feather craft; you'll soon want to make feathers from your old plaid shirts.
How To Make Fabric Flowers
Use coloured fabric scraps or colour your own with Sharpies. It is a very easy project that doesn't require sewing, and the flowers will last forever.
How to Make Fabric Bowls
You only need little pieces of fabric to make these bowls and this project doesn't require any sewing.
Scrapbusting: How to make Fabric Twine
This is a clever way to use your scrap to make twine in different colours. The twine can then be used in so many fun projects.
How To Make An Easy Mod Podge Fabric Mirror Frame
Colourful smaller scraps are great to use for decoupage. Beautiful fabric swatches would also be a good resource for this decoupage mirror project. The technique could also be used to make unique picture frames.
A Quick Covered Button Bobby Pins Tutorial
To make these fun bobby pins, you just need small circles of fabric. The easy tutorial can be adapted to make fabric-covered buttons.
Cute notebook diy
Used leftover fabric hexies to decorate a notebook. This would make a lovely gift to someone who like sewing.
How To Make An Upcycled Scandi Woven Hearts Garland
These Scandinavian scrap woven fabric hearts would look good as Christmas and Valentine's decorations.
Tutorial For A Gorgeous Scrap Fabric Birdcage
Wrap strips of fabric around a coat hanger to make a fun spring decoration.
How To Make Gorgeous Fabric Birdhouses
Cover old cardboard boxes with scrap pieces of fabric to make these cute decorative patchwork birdhouses. The post includes the free pattern and full tutorial; only a little sewing is required.
How to make old sweaters into scrap fabric coasters
Combine scrap sweater felt with patterned fabric to make these lovely coasters. They would also make a special gift.
DIY No-Sew Fabric Pumpkins
Fabric pumpkins are a popular fall decoration. These are made with leftover fabric from other projects and provide a colourful alternative to normal fall colours.
How To Make Fun Faux Framed Moth Taxidermy
These moths don't only use denim scraps but colourful fabric scraps too. Make a fun piece of wall art inspired by vintage insect displays of the past.
DIY Holly Golightly Sleep Masks
I love these sleep masks, and there is an easy sewing tutorial. They look fun and would be a lovely gift for a friend.
How To Make Tartan Trees From Fabric Scraps
These can be made with any fabric scraps, but the tartan gives them a lovely winter look. Check out these other Christmas sewing ideas.
How To Make A Denim DIY Sunglasses Case
This is no ordinary DIY sunglasses case, it has a cool pocket feature. This sewn case is made from the front right pocket of a pair of jeans. So not only is it a reading glasses case but there is also room for your phone and cards.
How To Make A Wristlet Key Fob
You only need the smallest amount of fabric to make these key fobs. This is a super easy-to-follow tutorial to make a wristlet key fob.
How to Make Fabric Covered Hangers
An easy way to beautify those horrible wire coat hangers you get from the dry cleaners is to cover them in strips of old fabric.
Allure-ing Fabric Bracelet DIY
If you have colourful patterns scraps, why not use them to make some bright bracelets by covering an old bangle.
DIY Fabric Mushrooms
These adorable fabric mushrooms are made from fabric leftovers and swatches. They are so addictive and fun to make soon that you'll have enough for a garland.
DIY Farmhouse Style Rag Ball Decor
DIY farmhouse style decorative rag balls, a great way to use up those scraps! This is a no-sew scrap fabric craft.
How To Make Paper Mache Fabric Bowls
This is a straightforward way to make fabric bowls without sewing. The method is similar to Paper Mache but with denim or other fabric scraps rather than paper. The fabric bowls are rigid and sturdy and can be used as fruit or bread baskets on the table.
DIY Scrap Fabric Butterfly
This butterfly craft is a fun way to use up small colourful bits of fabric. The butterflies would make lovely gift toppers or hair bows.
Stunning Poppy Seed heads
You'll be hunting the bottom of your fabric scraps for the colourful pieces to make these fabric poppy seed heads. They look gorgeous in an upcycled vase on the mantle and make a lovely handmade gift.
Home Sweet Home Camper Applique Pattern
Applique pictures are a great way to use up the smallest bits of fabric. Like with this cute caravan picture.
Update old towels with scrap fabric bias binding
This is a great way to update old towels and make them look pretty. Use scrap fabric strips to create a colourful trim.
How to Make DIY Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
A very practical and eco-friendly way to use up fabric scraps, with these make-up remover pads.
How To Make A Beautiful Decoupage Vase With Fabric
A fun way to use up those colourful pieces of fabric is to use them for decoupage, like with this gorgeous Kaffe Fassett vase.
DIY Cord Keeper From Fabric Scraps
These are the perfect quick project to use up the last bits of your favourite fabrics. As a bonus, they make a good gift for anyone and any occasion.
No Sew Fabric Flowers
These little no-sew fabric flowers can be used in all sorts of ways. They are perfect for embellishing small projects and make an excellent gift topper. I used fabric flowers as magnets for a DIY Magnet Board.
Tea Towel Apron Appliqued With Fun Whimsical Houses
Another fun applique idea for old fabric scraps. This apron would also make a lovely gift.
Scrappy Trees Ornament
Choose small pieces of fabric in seasonal colours and patterns to make a fun holiday ornament for your tree or as gift toppers.
DIY Free Mug Rug Pattern -You Will Want To Make
These hand-sewn mug rugs are made with denim scraps, but other cotton fabrics would work just as well.
Vintage Easter Egg Cup Pin Cushion
These must be the cutest pin cushions, and they would make a fun Easter craft.
How to Make a Scrunchie 3 Different Ways
As someone with long hair, I can never have too many of these. I'm always looking for a scrunchy, so much kinder to your hair than naked elastic.
How to Make Primitive Scrap Fabric Tree Ornaments
You only need the smallest of fabric scraps to make these cute Christmas tree ornaments.
How to make handmade quilted Christmas ornaments
If you have any Christmas fabrics in your scrap pile, these are cute ornaments to make.
DIY Fabric Sunflower Denim Corsage
This sunflower corsage can be made from denim or other scrap fabrics. It requires little or no sewing.
Scrap Fabric Easy Sew Christmas Ornaments
Another seasonal idea, great for tartan and plaid scraps.
Upcycled Beaded Silk Scarf Scraps Necklace
Use silk fabric scraps to make a cute necklace. A very easy craft that makes a great gift.
How To Make Fabric Bows Two Ways
These bows are made from denim scraps but the pattern can be used for any fabric.
DIY Reused Fabric Wreath
This wreath is super easy to make. You can whip up this DIY reused fabric wreath in no time at all.
How To Make Cool Denim Applique Heart Pockets
Applique is a fun way to use up fabric scraps, like with these cute pocket bags.
How to Make a Silky Bohemian Dreamcatcher
Colorful silk scraps give this dream catcher a wonderful Boho vibe.
DIY Embroidery Hoop Wreath with Scrap Fabric
Another scrap fabric wreath idea, great for lacey fabric scraps.
No Sew Patchwork Fabric Easter Eggs
The smallest of fabric scraps can be used to make the cutest decorated Easter eggs.
Scrap Fabric Bookmarks
Make your own bookmark using scrap fabrics and ribbon. A great little DIY craft project suited to beginner sewers.
How To Make A Cool World Map Denim Floor Cushion
Another fun scrap fabric applique project, this time to make a world map floor cushion
Easy DIY Corner Bookmarks From Fabric
Another scrap fabric bookmark idea, with these corner bookmarks.
How to Sew Fabric Storage Bins
Learn to make these cute but handy fabric storage bins from your slightly larger remnants.
Anthropologie-Inspired DIY Knotted Headband
Knotted headbands are so expensive in stores like Anthropologie when they are so easy to make at home and only cost a fraction of the price.
Fun Hen and Duck Embroidery For A Spring Mantle
Make a cute spring decoration for your mantle with a small piece of scrap fabric and scrap ribbon.
T-Shirt Applique You Can Make in Minutes!
An applique idea for fabric scraps, updating and embellishing clothes.
Jar Opener Easy Sewing Project
Sometimes you need a little extra traction to open a tight-fitting lid on a jar. This jar opener easy sewing project is the solution.
How To Make Scrap Tartan Scottie Dog Ornaments
What a perfect use of tartan scraps, make cute Scottie dog decorations.
Scrap Fabric Owl Soft Toy Free Pattern Templates & Tutorial
These patchwork owls would make good doorstops if filled with rice or lentils,
How to make an emery pincushion
Not only does this pin cushion look sweet, but it will also sharpen your pins.
Strawberry Wardrobe Fresheners
Strawberry wardrobe freshener or scented sachets from fabric scraps. This would be good to put in sneakers to keep them fresh smelling.
Learn How To Make Simple Gorgeous Rustic Stars
Wrap fabric scraps around wire coat hangers to make a star wall decoration.
Tote Bag Upcycle with Floral Upholstery Fabric
Cut out flowers and motifs from scrap upholstery fabric and use them to embellish clothing and bags.
Fabric Plant Pots Using Mod Podge Ultra
A cute way to update plain plant pots. Patchwork pots can be made with small fabric scraps.
Thimble Pip Tutorial
A cute handmade gift idea for seamstresses. You only need the smallest of fabric scraps.
Boho Ribbon DIY!
Make funky ribbons from your colorful fabric scraps and then use them for decoration.
Pottery Barn Inspired Easter Bunny Banner
This is a fun decoration to get out every Easter. There is a paper bunny version here.
Create Luxury Handmade Gift Tags From Scraps
These gift tags were made from fabric swatches, a great source for free fabric scraps.
How To Make An Upcycled Denim Gift Tag
Another scrap fabric gift tag idea. This time with a personal monogram.
Fabric balls
The tiniest of fabric scraps can be used to make these pretty balls. Then string them together to make a cute garland.
How To Make A Scrap Fabric Angel Christmas Ornament
With just a bit of wire, you can make scrap fabric angels for your Christmas tree.
DIY Cast Iron Skillet Handle Cover
I could do with a couple of these in my kitchen. I have a couple of pans that I'm always scalding my hand on.
How to Make a Hoop Organizer
These would look great in any craft room and they are very practical too.
DIY Hand Warmers from Flannel Shirts
Hand warmers are a practical thing to make from fabric scraps and they would also make a great gift.
DIY Denim Bunny Decoration From Jeans Scraps
These cute denim bunnies were made from scrap jeans fabric, but I think they would also look fabulous in a pretty Liberty print fabric.
DIY Hand Sanitizer Holder
A sign of modern times having to carry hand sanitiser. These holders are great and can just clip to your handbag making them easy to find. There is also a video tutorial.
Fabric Scraps and Faux Leather Bookmark
The tiniest pieces of scrap fabric are combined with scrap leather to make these colourful bookmarks.
Boho Style DIY Denim Earrings
An easy upcycled jewellery craft that uses the tiniest scraps of denim. But the Boho style earrings could easily be made with other woven fabrics such as plaid.
Beautiful Fabric Star Ornament – Tutorial And Free Pattern
Create your fabric star ornaments for a touch of handmade charm. Follow this easy guide to craft these decorations, fun for gifting to loved ones
DIY Christmas Applique Denim Pockets
Explore the creative and eco-friendly process of crafting Christmas Applique Denim Pockets. This fun and simple project is perfect for utilizing fabric scraps, and turning them into unique and charming holiday decorations.
Fabric Flower Making Tutorial: Crafting Whimsical Blooms
Use the fabric left over from charm squares to make hand-sewn fabric flowers. Each petal can be made with a different patterned fabric for a fun, whimsical look.
How to Sew a Zipper Pouch Tutorial
Make colourful zipper pouches with your larger fabric pieces following this easy zipper pouch pattern.
Easy Scrap fabric quilt block
Make a simple patchwork quilt with even the tinniest of fabric scraps with this easy to follow tutorial.
How to Sew Easy, Quilted Fabric Bookmarks Studio
You'll only need the tiniest fabric scraps to stitch up these gorgeous DIY bookmarks. They would make lovely handmade gifts.
Make A Beautiful Beetroot Brooch with Scrap Fabric
Follow this velvet beetroot brooch tutorial and get the free pattern to create your own unique piece of handmade jewelry. A fun and stylish addition to your autumn wardrobe!
You might want to check out these awesome leather craft ideas if you have some leather scraps.
Don’t forget to check out many of my other cool adult craft ideas and ideas for upcycling sweaters for Christmas.
Jennifer Wise
Thursday 28th of March 2024
The feathers are amazing, but there are so many things here I'd love to make. I think if you have (or have ever had) fabric, you must have scraps! :) Pinning this to save and share. Thanks for sharing this post at the Will Blog for Comments #31 linkup. Hope to see you next week, too.
Claire Armstrong
Thursday 28th of March 2024
Thank you so much, the feathers are a favourite craft of mine too. I even make them out of denim scraps too!
Michelle Leslie
Tuesday 12th of October 2021
Those denim moths of yours are still one of my all-time favorite scrap fabric ideas. They're just so awesome., but I've pinned this wonderful collection of other ideas because if there's one thing we have a lot of in this house, it's fabric scraps :D
Claire Armstrong
Wednesday 13th of October 2021
Thank you, it's amazing the fun things you can make from fabric scraps. The moths are also my sons favourite.