15 Creative Ways to Use Your Fabric Stash

Today we are going to learn how to use your fabric stash and Unlock New Projects, Use Those Scraps, and Get Inspired Right from Your Sewing Room

If you’re like me, you’ve spent years gathering fabric treasures, all organized (or not) in every corner of your sewing area. There’s the pile of fat quarters you snagged at that quilt show two years ago, the jelly rolls you just had to have, and those charm packs you couldn’t pass up because they were on sale.

You might have big pieces, small pieces, novelty prints, and even scraps with sentimental value from finished quilts.

Let’s admit it—we quilters love our fabric collections, but every so often, it’s time to use what we have! Today, we’ll dive into 15 creative ways to turn your stash fabric into something fabulous.

These projects don’t require a fabric store run (I know, the horror!), and they’re a perfect way to add a fresh twist to your sewing projects. So grab your fabric bins, pull out your favorite fabric, and let’s get inspired!

Key Points Covered in This Article

• Ideas for using up both larger pieces and small fabric scraps
• Tips on turning your fabric stash into beautiful and practical items
• Organization tricks to help make the most of your sewing room space
• Easy projects that make good use of all that pretty fabric you’ve been saving

Easy and Simple (plus cute and possibly quick) Ways to Use Your Fabric Stash

Whether you’re looking to finally tackle that fabric stash that seems to multiply overnight or simply seeking a creative outlet, I’m here to help! Each piece of fabric in your collection has the potential to become part of a stunning new project, and I promise it will be much more rewarding than letting it collect dust.

From scrappy quilts to fun accessories, the possibilities are endless when you let your imagination run wild. So, let’s jump into these 15 inventive ways to breathe new life into your fabric stash and turn those beloved pieces into works of art you’ll be proud to show off!

1. Make a Scrap Quilt

The easiest way to dive into your fabric scrap bin? A scrap quilt! Combine different sizes, colors, and patterns—whether they’re fat quarters, jelly rolls, or leftover fabric scraps. I like to mix in my larger scraps to add dimension and keep things interesting. There are so many great patterns available, and this is a great idea if you’re looking to experiment with new colors or layouts.

Here are a few scrap quilts that will help you whittle that pile down –

• Spinning Ribbons
• Rail Fence Lap Quilt
• Easy (and quick) Nine Patch Quilt
• 15+ Crumb quilt ideas and patterns

2. Sew a Quilted Tote Bag

Who doesn’t need an extra tote bag? Gather those larger pieces you’ve been holding onto for a “specific project” (yes, that one) and stitch up a tote. I recommend using cotton fabric for durability, and feel free to mix in a few fabric scraps to make it uniquely yours.

Cute Quilted Bag Patterns –

• Sophie (quilt as you go technique) bag tutorial
• Zipper project bag
• Scrappy Patchwork grocery bag holder
• Reusable Snack Bag

3. Use Up Smaller Scraps with Key Fobs or Wristlets

Tiny fabric scraps have a habit of taking over scrap bins, right? These little projects are much fun and make excellent gifts! Use a couple of fabric scraps to whip up some adorable key fobs or wristlets. This is also a great way to try out novelty prints or that modern fabric that didn’t quite make it into your last quilt.

Simple to sew smaller projects-

• Ribbon Clutch or wristlet, perfect for using those little bits of ribbon!
• Key fobs pattern
• Water bottle holder

4. Create Fabric Baskets for Organizing

Want a way to make good use of larger scraps and keep your sewing room organized? Fabric baskets! Use your stash fabric to create custom storage bins, perfect for holding sewing notions, smaller scraps, or even fat quarter bundles. Who knew organization could be this cute?

Fabric Baskets and Bins Patterns –

• Quilt Block fabric storage basket
• Sewing machine pedal bag
• Travel Bag for sewing projects
• 50+ fabric baskets

5. DIY Fabric Storage on Magazine Boards or Comic Book Boards

If you’re struggling with fabric storage, consider wrapping your cut of fabric around magazine or comic book boards. This storage method works wonders, and you’ll feel like you’re at a fabric store every time you browse your shelves. It’s a great way to keep those larger pieces in view.

6. Try Your Hand at Fabric Gift Wrap

For those of us who love Christmas fabrics (or any seasonal fabric), why not turn them into reusable gift wrap? It’s eco-friendly, makes a great impression, and adds that personal touch. Plus, if you use a favorite fabric, you get the joy of seeing it in use without having to part with it completely.

• Do not open gift bag – large!
• Fabric gift bag, using the Cricut
• 25+ fabric gift bags you can sew

7. Make Fabric Coasters or Mug Rugs

Gather your charm packs, little scrap pieces, or larger scraps that need a new life. Mug rugs and coasters are the perfect way to showcase beautiful fabric in a functional way. They’re quick projects and add charm to any table.

• What is a mug rug
• Easy maple leaf coaster
• Ghost mug rug

8. Decorate with Fabric Buntings

Create some fabric bunting from all those fabric scraps with sentimental value. It’s a fun and easy way to bring a bit of color and personality to your craft room or even your next family gathering!

Bunting Patterns

• Easy and quick celebration bunting
• No-sew star banner
• Quick tips for fast bunting making
• 10+ banners and buntings patterns

9. Fabric Bookmarks for the Avid Reader

If you’re a bookworm, fabric bookmarks are a lovely way to use up narrow strips of leftover fabric. I love using small pieces of fabric with selvage edges for a unique look. They’re perfect as little gifts too—one of the easiest ways to share some of your favorite fabric with friends. Just in case, you can find magnetic bookmarks in the shop.

10. Cover Storage Bins or Boxes with Fabric

If you have plastic drawers or plain boxes in your sewing room, try covering them with fabric for an instant upgrade. Use some of those large scraps you’ve had for a long time and glue them to the outside. Now, those plastic drawers are display-worthy!

11. Make a Fabric-Covered Journal or Notebook

Fabric-covered journals are an excellent way to use fat quarters or any beautiful fabric with sentimental value. Wrap the cover with your favorite fabric, secure it with a bit of glue, and voilà—a unique, handmade gift or keepsake.

• Fabric book covers
• Composition book cover with elastic closure
• 3 ring binder fabric cover

12. Sew a Reversible Bucket Hat

Want to try something wearable? Use up larger pieces to create a reversible bucket hat. If you’re ready to dive in, this project could be a fun way to test out different types of fabric. Plus, you’ll pick up a new skill along the way.

• Reversible bucket hat pattern

13. Fabric Scrap Pincushions

We all need pincushions, right? Use small pieces of fabric to create cute, colorful pincushions. These make lovely gifts for quilting friends, or keep a few in different places around your sewing room.

• Armchair pincushion with pockets for hand work
• Scrappy Needle keeper
• Leftover quilt block pin cushion
• Posie Pins

14. DIY Fabric Wall Art

Got a beautiful piece of fabric you can’t bear to cut? Stretch it over a canvas frame for some unique fabric wall art. It’s a fun project that can give new life to a large cut of fabric you’ve been saving for “something special.”

15. Quilted Pillow Covers

Throw pillows are the perfect way to showcase a pretty fabric that’s been sitting in your stash for a long time. Mix and match fat quarter bundles or larger pieces with some fabric scraps to create a stunning, one-of-a-kind pillow cover.

• Travel Pillow Tutorial
• Flag Pillow Pattern

FAQs

1. How do I organize my fabric stash to make it easier to find what I need?
To keep your fabric stash accessible, try grouping it by color, size, or type (like fat quarters, larger pieces, or scraps). You can use plastic drawers, comic book boards, or magazine boards for wrapping larger pieces, and stash smaller scraps in labeled bins or baskets. This way, when inspiration strikes, you’ll know exactly where to find each piece.

2. What’s the best way to store small fabric scraps?
Fabric scrap bins, clear containers, or zip-top bags work well for organizing small pieces. Some quilters like to sort scraps by color, while others use size categories. Keeping them separate helps you find the perfect scrap quickly for small projects like coasters, key fobs, and mug rugs.

3. What projects work best for tiny fabric scraps?
Small scraps are great for things like key fobs, bookmarks, coasters, and fabric-covered buttons. They’re also ideal for scrappy quilts or as appliqué details on other projects. Even the smallest piece can add a pop of color or pattern to a project.

4. How can I store my larger fabric pieces to prevent wrinkles?
If you have larger cuts or yardage, consider using pants hangers to hang them, or stack them in large storage bins. You can also fold each piece around a comic book board and store them on a shelf like mini bolts—it’s a great way to keep your sewing area tidy and your fabric visible.

5. Is it better to store my fabric in bins or on open shelves?
This depends on your space and how much fabric you have. Open shelves allow you to see your stash, making it easier to plan projects. Bins are better for protection against dust and light, which can fade fabric over time. If you use bins, try clear ones so you can still see what’s inside.

6. What if I have fabric I don’t plan to use?
If your fabric stash has some pieces that don’t inspire you anymore, consider swapping with friends, donating to a charity that accepts fabric, or selling it in online groups or at thrift stores. Passing along fabric is a great way to make room for new fabric that you love while sharing your collection with others.

7. Do I need to wash my fabric before using it?
Prewashing fabric is a personal choice. Some quilters prewash to prevent shrinkage, while others prefer the stiffness of unwashed fabric for cutting and piecing. If you’re mixing prewashed and unwashed fabrics in one project, just keep in mind they might shrink slightly differently.

There you have it—15 ways to breathe life and use your fabric stash! Whether you’re using fat quarters, charm packs, or even that one lonely yard of fabric, these projects make it easy to get sewing and create something fabulous.

The best tips for a clean sewing area? Use up what you have! And hey, maybe your sewing room will finally look a little less like a fabric store and more like a crafting paradise.

So, which project are you going to try first? Let’s dive in and put that stash fabric to good use—there’s no better feeling than turning a pile of fabric into something you’ll love for years to come.

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