What to Do with All Those Scraps?

Hey there, quilters!

Have you ever wondered what to do with all those scraps that accumulate from cutting quilt blocks or cutting out stuff for applique? Well, I have some ideas on that.

Scrap quilts go way back to the beginning of quilting when pioneer women cut up old worn-out clothing and used them in quilts.Today, quilters tend to use a scrap bucket, bin, tub, etc., to throw scraps into for later use. 

Before I moved into my new house, I had an old laundry basket chock full of scraps! I donated a lot of fabric to a quilt charity and they also wanted all my scraps! I handed over the whole laundry basket and now I'm starting my scrap bucket all over again.

But seriously, scrap quilts are a great way to save money and make some quick and amazing quilts! I will use bits of fabric as small as an inch. Some of the larger scraps, I'll cut up into smaller pieces, depending on what I'm making. 

If you applique, you may end up with some really oddly shaped scraps (I know I do!), but not to worry, those can be cut down and used in scrap quilts. I have found that scraps work really well in my quilted landscape wallhangings. So, don't throw away your scraps!

String quilts are a form of scrap quilt and I LOVE making string quilts! It's a great way to use up any size of scrap fabric. I've even made string blocks and incorporated them into other quilts, which gives the quilts a whole new dimension. 

I like using a muslin backing for string blocks, mainly because I tend to buy muslin by the bolt, but you can use any fabric. You can also use newspapers, phone book pages, used dryer sheets, copy paper, wax paper, and even old bed sheets for backing. Basically, whatever you have handy. String borders are also super cute on quilts.

Some string blocks I made for a quilt swap

String quilt I made

One nice thing about string quilts is there is an extra layer of fabric in there for warmth. If you're making a summer or lighter weight quilt, then just add a backing and quilt, no need for batting. (Cost savings!)

Here is a link for how to make string quilts.

For basic scrap quilts, just start cutting scraps to the size you want and start sewing them together! Here is a link for scrap quilt ideas. There are also a ton of ideas on Pinterest for scrap quilts, or make it up as you go along.

Scrap baby quilt I made

Scrap borders are also fun to make and add another dimension to your quilt.

If you are looking for a quick and easy quilt to make, raid your scrap bucket and get to scrapping!

Happy Quilting and Sewing!