7 Textile Crafts You Can Start with Fabric Scraps

Transforming fabric scraps into creative crafts is an eco-friendly way to reduce waste and craft unique items. It’s perfect for adding charm and functionality to your home or wardrobe.

From patchwork cushion covers to reusable gift wraps, these projects are simple yet inspiring. With basic materials, you can turn leftover fabric into something beautiful and practical.

Start today and bring new life to your fabric scraps. Let’s explore seven creative textile crafts together.

Refresh your space and style with handmade creations!

1. Fabric Scrap Coasters

Creating coasters from fabric scraps is a quick and practical craft that helps protect your surfaces while adding a personalized touch to your home decor.

Materials Needed:

• Fabric scraps (cotton or linen work best)
• Fusible interfacing or felt for added thickness
• Scissors or rotary cutter
• Sewing machine or needle and thread

Steps:

1. Cut fabric scraps into 4×4-inch squares.
2. Cut interfacing or felt to the same size for added durability.
3. Layer the fabric pieces with the interfacing in between.
4. Sew around the edges, leaving a small gap.
5. Turn the coaster inside out, press it flat, and stitch the opening closed.

Pro Tip:

Use different fabric patterns on each side for a reversible design.

2. Patchwork Cushion Covers

Turn small fabric scraps into a stylish patchwork cushion cover that adds charm to your living space.

Materials Needed:

• Various fabric scraps
• Sewing machine or needle and thread
• Cushion insert
• Zipper or buttons (optional)

Steps:

1. Cut fabric scraps into squares or rectangles of similar size.
2. Arrange them in a visually appealing pattern.
3. Sew the pieces together to form the front panel of the cushion cover.
4. Attach a solid fabric for the back.
5. Sew all sides together, leaving an opening for the cushion insert.
6. Insert the cushion and close with a zipper or buttons.

Pro Tip:

Use coordinating colors for a cohesive design or mix bold patterns for a vibrant look.

3. Reusable Fabric Gift Wrap

Ditch disposable wrapping paper and make eco-friendly fabric gift wraps.

Materials Needed:

• Fabric scraps
• Scissors
• Pinking shears (to prevent fraying)

Steps:

1. Cut fabric into squares or rectangles, depending on the gift size.
2. Use pinking shears to prevent fraying.
3. Wrap gifts as you would with paper, securing with a ribbon or twine.
4. Reuse the wrap for future occasions.

Pro Tip:

Choose festive prints for seasonal wrapping or neutral tones for year-round use.

4. Fabric Scrap Bookmarks

Make unique bookmarks from leftover fabric to add a personalized touch to your reading time.

Materials Needed:

• Fabric scraps
• Fusible interfacing or felt
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or fabric glue

Steps:

1. Cut fabric and interfacing into 2×6-inch rectangles.
2. Attach interfacing to the fabric for stiffness.
3. Sew around the edges or use fabric glue to secure.
4. Add decorative elements like embroidery or tassels.

Pro Tip:

Personalize with initials or small hand-stitched designs.

5. Fabric Scrap Hair Accessories

Turn fabric scraps into stylish hair accessories like scrunchies and hair bows.

Materials Needed:

• Fabric scraps
• Elastic (for scrunchies)
• Hair clips or headbands
• Needle and thread or sewing machine

Steps:

1. Cut fabric to desired size (e.g., 3×18 inches for scrunchies).
2. Fold fabric lengthwise, sew along the edge, and turn it inside out.
3. Insert elastic and sew the ends together.
4. Stitch the fabric to secure the scrunchie or attach to a hair clip.

Pro Tip:

Use satin or silk scraps for a luxurious feel and to reduce hair breakage.

6. Quilted Pot Holders

Fabric scraps can be turned into heat-resistant pot holders for your kitchen.

Materials Needed:

• Cotton fabric scraps
• Batting or thick felt
• Bias tape (optional)
• Sewing machine

Steps:

1. Cut fabric and batting into 7×7-inch squares.
2. Layer fabric and batting, sewing them together in a quilted pattern.
3. Attach bias tape around the edges for a clean finish.
4. Add a loop for easy hanging.

Pro Tip:

Use heat-resistant batting for better protection when handling hot pots and pans.

7. Fabric Wall Art

Turn fabric scraps into decorative wall art for a unique touch to your space.

Materials Needed:

• Fabric scraps
• Embroidery hoop or canvas frame
• Fabric glue or staple gun

Steps:

1. Stretch fabric over an embroidery hoop or frame.
2. Secure with fabric glue or staples.
3. Arrange different fabric pieces for a collage effect.
4. Hang the finished piece as wall decor.

Pro Tip:

Mix textures and patterns for a bold artistic statement.

Final Thoughts

Using fabric scraps for creative projects is a great way to minimize waste while crafting unique and functional items. Whether you make coasters, bookmarks, or decorative wall art, these simple projects allow you to turn leftover fabric into something beautiful and practical.

Choose one or more of these textile crafts and start transforming your fabric scraps today.