There are two types of sewists: those who stuff their fabric scraps into old shopping bags and those who organize them by size, shape, and color. No matter which category you fall into, I commend you for seeing the potential of fabric scraps.

Fabric scraps are not trash. In fact, throwing away fabric is harmful to the environment. 66% of textiles end up in landfills, decomposing slowly, some taking hundreds of years. Instead of discarding fabric scraps, many sewists, like us, seek to transform them into new, functional items.

While large scraps are not enough to make an entire garment, we can use them to sew fashionable accessories such as hair bows. Small scraps do not amount to much alone, but we can combine them with other scraps to create quilted home décor. Fabric scraps also make great fiberfill for pillows and stuffed animals.

It is inevitable—the more you sew, the more fabric scraps you collect. I compiled a list of my favorite ways to upcycle fabric. I hope it inspires you to make the most of every piece!

8 Ways to Upcycle Fabric Scraps

1. Collage Art

2. Drawstring Pouches

3. Brooch Pins

4. Rag Tie Garlands

5. Tassel Keychains

6. Scrunchies

7. Ornaments

8. Scrunchie Barrettes

Check out my Pinterest board, “Ways Upcycle Fabric Scraps,” for more ideas!

How do you upcycle fabric scraps? Share in the comments below!

Take 15 minutes today to read, write down, and meditate on this scripture: “He instructed them to take nothing for the road except a staff—no bread, no traveling bag, no money in their belts, but to wear sandals and not put on an extra shirt.” – Mark 6:8-9 (CSB)