Ever found yourself holding a tiny scrap of fabric, absolutely certain it’ll come in handy someday? You know exactly where it came from — maybe it’s a remnant from a quilt you gifted, or a snippet trimmed when you hemmed a dress for a special occasion. Small as it is, it holds more than just threads — it holds a memory.
The word scraps hardly does them justice. Each piece, no matter how small, holds meaning. We don’t just collect them; we curate them. They sit quietly in boxes or jars, waiting for their moment. Every now and then, we pull them out, run our fingers over the textures, and relive the stories they hold. These fragments are just waiting to be transformed into something new — memories stitched together with care.
❓What’s the tiniest scrap you’ve ever held onto, and why couldn’t you let it go?
This is the heart of boro — the traditional Japanese art of piecing, mending, and giving worn fabrics fresh purpose. In boro, no scrap is ever wasted. Instead, they’re layered, stitched, and celebrated for their imperfections. The result? Textiles that carry the richness of their history and the beauty of resilience.
Like boro, our own scrap stashes are waiting for their chance to become part of a new story.
Practical uses for your fabric scraps
We have more resources than ever to create custom clothes, homewares, and accessories. Your scraps are versatile tools ready for action. Instead of buying new, use what you already have to add character and practicality to your home and wardrobe. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Patchwork cushions: Liven up your living room with striking cushions made from scrap fabric.
Appliqué details: Add small scrap pieces to tea towels, shirts, jackets, or bags for a unique touch.
Trivets and coasters: Layer and stitch scraps together for sturdy, functional pieces.
Mending projects: Turn worn-out jeans or jackets into something fresh and functional with creative patching.
Curating and displaying your fabric scrap stash
Curating and displaying your fabric scraps is a brilliant way to keep your creative energy flowing. Thoughtful organisation helps you see your collection, while artistic displays turn those bits and pieces into daily inspiration. Instead of hiding scraps away, sort them by colour, size, or texture to create a ready-to-use resource. Then, transform your storage into a visual delight by showcasing them in ways that double as art for your workspace. This approach keeps your stash manageable, accessible, and creatively stimulating.
Ideas for curating and displaying your fabric scraps
Clear jars by colour: arrange scraps in transparent jars by colour family for a stunning rainbow effect on your shelves.
Mood boards: create mood boards with curated scraps to inspire future projects.
Scrap collage frame: pin your favourite scraps onto a corkboard or frame, creating a rotating gallery of inspiration.
Embroidered hoop displays: stretch layered scraps into embroidery hoops and hang them on the wall as mini textile art pieces.
Patchwork wall hanging: sew small scraps together into a quilted wall hanging that showcases your collection.
Labelled boxes or bins: sort by themes (florals, solids, geometric prints) and use labelled containers for easy access.
Fabric scrap bunting: string together colourful scraps for a cheerful, decorative banner.
With a curated and artfully displayed stash, your scraps become more than leftovers — they’re constant reminders of creative potential and projects waiting to happen.
❓How do you currently organise your fabric scraps — and does it work for you?
When it's time to let go of fabric scraps
Letting go of scraps can feel really tough — after all, each piece has probably been in your stash for a while! But if your stash is getting out of hand, it might be time to declutter. Start by asking yourself: “Does this scrap still inspire me?” or “Will I realistically use this?” If not, it’s okay to let it go. Decluttering doesn’t have to mean wasting.
Ways to let go of fabric scraps
Host a scrap swap: Gather fellow crafters for a swap meet where your unwanted scraps might be someone else’s perfect piece.
Donate to schools or community groups: Art programs, sewing clubs, or kindergartens often need fabric for creative projects.
Check out textile recycling programs: Some organisations accept fabric scraps to recycle into new materials.
Use as stuffing: Small, worn-out scraps can be repurposed as stuffing for cushions, toys, or pet beds.
Create ‘scrap packs’ for sale or gifting: Curate themed bundles of your scraps to sell on Etsy or give as gifts to fellow makers.
❓Could you organise a scrap swap with your crafting community?
Decluttering your scraps isn’t about losing potential — it’s about making space for what truly inspires you and keeping your creativity energised.
Honour your fabric scraps and spark new ideas
Fabric scraps may seem small, but they’re overflowing with potential. Whether you organise them, turn them into stunning displays, or share them through swaps and donations, every piece has a chance to become part of something new. Honouring your scraps — and knowing when to let go — keeps your creative journey fresh and fulfilling.
Remember, it’s not just about collecting; it’s about creating with purpose, joy, and intention. Dive into your stash, let those scraps whisper their stories, and see where your imagination takes you. ❓How can you challenge yourself to use more of your scraps in your next project?
Yes! I love this - every scrap I own I know the story of. I love the idea of curating these into larger pieces and forming stories 💖 Thanks Ruth!