Whether you’re an avid sewer or a casual crafter, chances are you’ve got a stash of leftover fabric scraps too pretty to part with. Instead of letting them sit in a bin or drawer, why not turn them into something useful, beautiful, or just plain fun? Today I’m sharing 10 cozy, family-friendly ideas that will breathe new life into your fabric bits—and add a little homemade charm to your home.
1. Patchwork Coasters
Small squares of leftover fabric come together beautifully in patchwork coasters. Just sew 4–6 squares together, add a layer of batting and a backing fabric, and topstitch around the edges. These not only protect your tables but also make your morning coffee or evening tea feel extra special. They’re a great project for using even tiny scraps and can be made in seasonal color themes.
Try it with: cozy flannel, cotton prints, or even denim scraps.
2. Fabric Bookmarks
A sweet and simple project! Cut rectangles or strips of fabric (around 2” x 6” is a good size), and add a bit of fusible interfacing or sew two fabrics back-to-back. Use pinking shears for a decorative edge or add a little ribbon loop at the top. Fabric bookmarks are lightweight, colorful, and make lovely gifts tucked into books or journals.
Perfect for: rainy day crafting or stocking stuffers.
3. Scrappy Garland
Bring joy to your mantel, bookshelves, or a child’s room with a fabric scrap garland. Cut triangles, hearts, or rectangles and hot glue or sew them onto twine or bias tape. Mix patterns and colors for a boho look, or go monochrome for something more modern. Hang them for parties, holidays, or just everyday whimsy.
Seasonal idea: use red and green prints for Christmas or pastels for springtime.
4. Lavender Sachets
Sew two small squares of fabric (around 4” x 4”), leave a small opening, and stuff with dried lavender, rice, or polyfill scented with essential oils. Then stitch the opening closed. These are wonderful to tuck into drawers, keep with linens, or place under your pillow for a calming bedtime scent.
Bonus: These make lovely hostess gifts!
5. Mason Jar Covers
Give your pantry or homemade gift jars a vintage touch. Cut circles slightly larger than the jar lids, place over the top, and tie with ribbon, lace, or twine. You can also add a tag or label for an extra thoughtful touch.
Especially cute for: homemade jams, cookie mixes, or bath salts.
6. Fabric Magnets
Use small bits of fabric to create cute refrigerator magnets. Wrap scraps around small buttons, wooden circles, or bottle caps, and secure with glue. Add a small magnet to the back, and voilà! Fun little accents that brighten up your kitchen or workspace.
Idea: Make a set using coordinating fabrics for a cohesive look.
7. Scrap Fabric Wreath
Take a wire wreath form or embroidery hoop and tie strips of fabric all the way around, using a simple knot. Fluff the strips to create fullness. It’s a no-sew project that adds seasonal charm to any door or wall. Mix plaids for fall, florals for spring, or neutrals for year-round appeal.
Let kids help by picking out colors and tying knots—it’s a great group craft!
8. Mini Quilt or Mug Rug
A mug rug is like a little placemat for your coffee and snack—somewhere between a coaster and a quilt. Use scrap squares or strips to piece together a top, then add batting and a backing. It’s a fantastic way to practice quilting skills on a small scale and makes a cute desk or nightstand accessory.
These also make heartfelt, handmade gifts!
9. Hair Accessories
Make bows, headbands, or scrunchies from your scraps! You can sew a simple bow and attach it to a clip or make a quick scrunchie with a strip of fabric and elastic. These are adorable for kids, but grown-ups can enjoy them too.
Great for birthday party favors or mother-daughter craft nights.
10. Embellishments for Cards & Journals
Small fabric shapes can be glued onto greeting cards, scrapbook pages, or journals to add texture and a handmade flair. Use heart or flower punches for clean shapes, or simply cut small rectangles or tags. Mix them with paper, lace, or buttons for charming layers.
Tip: Store small shapes in a tin so you’re ready to craft when the mood strikes.
Final Thoughts
Fabric scraps may seem like clutter, but they’re really creative gold just waiting to be used. These simple projects offer ways to make your home cozier, your gifts more thoughtful, and your time more joyful—all with what you already have on hand.
So next time you finish a sewing project, don’t toss those trimmings. Embrace the beauty of a little scrap and make something meaningful.
