20 Great Ways to Use Fabric Scraps in 2023

Having a husband, two kids, a dog and a cat all under one roof, it really isn't my fault that I love "things" to be tidy, because things never seem to be!  In layman's terms - I love to throw things out.

However, even I have a hard time getting rid of fabric scraps.  There are so many gorgeous prints available to us today both from local retailers and across the globe - it seems criminal wasting absolutely any of it.

And, what's more, you don't need to.  Browsing through Pinterest, I've compiled 20 of the best fabric scrap projects around, and left out the nasty cheesy ones.  

1. Covered buttons

2. Cushion covers: The options are truly endless with one fabric covers or multiple complimentary fabric sewn together. 

3. Keychains

4. Mousepad

5. T-shirt front Pocket: This one is my personal favourite. Take a white t-shirt, and let's face it, they don't stay white for long, and turn it into something unique, cute and fun. 

6. Bobby Pins: these are a great rainy day project.

7. Pencilcase

8. Lampshade makeover: If you have a good drum lampshade but the fabric is past it's best, this makeover tutorial could be your answer. 

9. Kid's belt 

10. Camera strap slipover: Hanging an SLR camera around your neck gets a little uncomfortable after a while and fabric strap are the perfect to spruce up your strap.  

11. Fabric Rosette:  a fun DIY projects to do with kids. 

12. Christmas tree ornaments

13. Sewing weights: fabric off cuts and bean bag filler is all that is needed for this project.  Great idea for beginner sewers to create.

14. Mason jar covers:  Make that special homemade jam gift look even more enticing with fabric in a complementary colour or pattern. 

15. Fabric bows: makes cute little girls look even cuter.  Easy to create bows with rounded edges that give them an added softness. 

16. Fabric bag:  Great for weekends away for keeping your 'smalls' together. It's basically two rectangles sewn together and a drawstring opening.  

17. Oven hot pads

18. Designer wreath: this project really will take care of ALL your fabric scraps. The possibilities are endless here as well as being a fantastic project to share with children, both boys and girls.

19. Pincushion: loving this caravan design. Perfect gift idea for sewers. . 

20. Fabric accent trainers: Here you can add a personal touch to an otherwise normal pair of shoes. 

My favourite fabric shops in Auckland are:

Drapers Fabrics - Newmarket  
Nick's Fabrics - Otara
Geoff's Emporium - Mt Eden
Spotlight - Everywhere