Check out these fun crumb quilt ideas – let’s use those little pieces of fabric you aren’t sure what to do with. Crumb quilting is a delightful and resourceful technique that involves piecing together the smallest scraps of fabric, often referred to as “crumbs,” to create unique and scrappy quilt designs.
The technique is perfect for quilters looking to make use of even the tiniest scraps of fabric from their stash.
Crumb quilting is not only an environmentally friendly approach but also a great way to add a pop of color and texture to your quilts.
The process involves sewing together little bits of fabric to form new, larger pieces, which can then be used to create crumb quilt blocks, small quilts, or even more substantial projects.
I love the mile a minute technique – which is similar to crumb quilting. It’s the perfect way to get those little pieces sewn together quickly.
It’s a perfect way to reduce waste and make the most of your fabric scraps, turning what might seem like unusable little crumbs of fabric into beautiful, scrappy quilts.
How to Get Your Crumb Quilt Started – Making Your Own Fabric Crumbs
To get started with crumb quilting, you will need a few essential supplies: small scraps of fabric, a sewing machine, a rotary cutter, a cutting mat, and a ruler.
Optionally, fusible web can be used to help stabilize your fabric pieces. Begin by sorting your fabric crumbs into little bins or piles by color or size.
The first step in crumb piecing is to take two small pieces of leftover fabric and sew them together with a straight edge, trimming as necessary.
Continue adding small bits of fabric to your initial piece, sewing and trimming as you go, until you have a larger piece of crumb fabric.
This process is repeated to create as many crumb pieces as you need for your project.
Crumb quilting is versatile and can be used in various quilting projects, from mug rugs and lap quilts to larger scrap quilts and intricate wall hangings.
Using Ticker Tape for Your Fabric Scraps
This is a great method for putting your ‘crumb’ pieces together. Gather your scraps and sew them to receipt tape in strips.
This technique is not only a great way to use up your scraps but also adds a unique, textured look to your projects.
Sewing Scraps using Ticker Tape tutorial
10 Crumb Quilt Ideas – Simple Patterns
- Crumb Star Block Quilt
- Incorporate crumb blocks into stunning star patterns to add a pop of color and texture to your quilt. This pattern is perfect for using up small fabric pieces while creating an eye-catching design.
- https://youtu.be/S1NQ9kuo2W8?si=kG2eQhFbIql2YqMR
- Crumb Log Cabin Quilt
- Create a classic log cabin design using crumb pieces, ideal for a scrappy, cozy quilt. This pattern highlights the beauty of tiny fabric scraps arranged in a traditional layout.
- Quilt Therapy: www.quilttherapy.com/?page_id=1687
- Crumb Improv Quilt
- Embrace an improvisational approach to quilting with this crumb improv quilt pattern, allowing for creative freedom and unique designs. It’s a fun and liberating way to use up your smallest scraps.
- How to make crumb quilt blocks
- Crumb String Quilt
- Combine long strips of crumb fabric to create a dynamic string quilt. This pattern is great for showcasing a variety of colors and prints in a cohesive design.
- Quilted Twins – Crumb string quilts
- Crumb Heart Quilt
- Perfect for creating heart-shaped blocks from tiny pieces, this pattern adds a touch of love to any quilt. Use your crumb fabric to craft charming heart motifs.
- Aunt Ems Quilts – Crumb Hearts
- Crumb Dresden Plate Quilt
- Incorporate crumb blocks into the classic Dresden plate design for a quilt that combines tradition with modern scrap usage. This pattern beautifully showcases the versatility of crumb quilting.
- Quilt Daily – scrappy dresden quilt
- Crumb Courthouse Steps Quilt
- A variation of the log cabin pattern, this crumb courthouse steps quilt uses small pieces to create a structured, yet scrappy look. It’s a perfect way to add depth and interest to your quilt.
- Warped Spinster – fantastic crumb courthouse steps block
- Crumb Nine Patch Quilt
- Simple nine-patch blocks made from crumb fabric result in a quilt that’s both easy to make and visually appealing. This pattern is ideal for beginners looking to use up their scraps.
- AllPeopleQuilt: https://www.allpeoplequilt.com/quilt-patterns/nine-patch-quilts
- Crumb Fan Quilt
- Create fan-shaped blocks with crumb quilting to add a unique twist to traditional fan designs. This pattern allows you to play with color and texture in a fun way.
- FreeQuilt.com: www.freequilt.com/fan-quilt-patterns.html
- Crumb Crazy Quilt
- A scrappy, crazy quilt style using crumb pieces, perfect for a whimsical and colorful quilt. This pattern is great for those who love a more eclectic and free-form quilting approach.
- Crazy Quilt Society: www.crazyquilt.com/patterns
10 Crumb Quilt Ideas – Cute Projects
- Crumb Mug Rugs
- Small, practical projects perfect for beginners, crumb mug rugs are a great way to practice crumb quilting techniques. They make wonderful gifts and are useful for everyday use.
- Patchwork Posse: Mug Rug Tutorials
- Crumb Coasters
- Tiny but functional pieces for everyday use, crumb coasters are quick to make and perfect for using up the smallest scraps. These are great for adding a personal touch to your home.
- SewCanShe: https://sewcanshe.com/50-free-things-to-sew-using-fabric-scraps-turn-tiny-pieces-into-things-people-love/
- Crumb Potholders
- Practical kitchen accessories made from crumbs, these potholders are both functional and a great way to showcase your scraps. They are durable and add a touch of handmade charm to your kitchen.
- Patchwork Posse: https://www.patchworkposse.com/10-quilted-hot-pad-tutorials-free-patterns/
- Crumb Pillows
- Decorative pillow covers with crumb quilting add a pop of color and texture to your living space. These pillows are a perfect project for experimenting with crumb quilting techniques.
- Diary of a Quilter: https://www.diaryofaquilter.com/collection-of-pillow-tutorials/
- Crumb Table Runners
- Adding a pop of color to your dining table, crumb table runners are a great project for showcasing a variety of fabrics. They are perfect for seasonal decor or everyday use.
- A Quilting Life: www.aquiltinglife.com/charm-pack-table-runner/
- Crumb Tote Bags
- Stylish and functional bags using crumb fabric, these tote bags are a fun way to carry your scraps with you. They are sturdy, practical, and a great conversation starter.
- Sewing.org: www.sewing.org/html/tote_bags.html
- Crumb Wall Hangings
- Artful decorations for your sewing room or home, crumb wall hangings allow you to display your quilting skills in a beautiful way. They are versatile and can be made in any size.
- AllPeopleQuilt: www.allpeoplequilt.com/quilt-patterns/wall-quilts
- Crumb Placemats
- Brighten up your dining experience with colorful crumb placemats. These are quick to make and are perfect for protecting your table while adding a decorative touch.
- Patchwork Posse: https://www.patchworkposse.com/how-to-make-quilted-placemats/
- Crumb Baby Quilts
- Soft and scrappy quilts for little ones, crumb baby quilts are a wonderful way to create a unique and personal gift. They are cozy, colorful, and perfect for babies.
- The little mushroom cap – https://www.thelittlemushroomcap.com/crumb-quilts-ideas/
- Crumb Book Covers
- Personalized covers for journals or books, crumb book covers add a handmade touch to your reading materials. They are simple to make and great for using up small scraps.
- SewCanShe: https://sewcanshe.com/2014-2-18-fabric-covered-art-journals-my-sew-my-stash-project/
Crumb quilting is a fun idea and a perfect way to use up those tiny scraps of fabric that might otherwise go to waste.
Whether you’re creating miniature quilts, lap quilts, or just adding a pop of color to your sewing room, crumb quilting offers endless possibilities for creativity and resourcefulness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is crumb quilting?
Crumb quilting is a technique that involves piecing together the tiniest scraps of fabric, often referred to as “crumbs,” to create new, larger pieces of fabric for quilting projects.
What supplies do I need for crumb quilting?
Basic supplies include small scraps of fabric, a sewing machine, a rotary cutter, a cutting mat, and a ruler. Optional supplies include fusible web for stabilizing fabric pieces.
How do I start a crumb quilt block?
Begin by sewing two small pieces of fabric together with a straight edge. Continue adding and sewing small pieces, trimming as necessary, until you have a larger piece of crumb fabric.
Can crumb quilting be used for larger projects?
Yes, crumb quilting can be used for a variety of projects, from small items like mug rugs and coasters to larger quilts and wall hangings.
What are the benefits of crumb quilting?
Crumb quilting is an environmentally friendly way to use up the smallest fabric scraps, reducing waste and creating unique, colorful designs. It’s also a fun and creative technique for quilters of all levels.
How do I incorporate crumb blocks into a quilt?
Crumb blocks can be used in various quilt patterns, such as log cabins, nine patches, and string quilts. They can add texture and visual interest to any quilt project.
Can I use fusible web in crumb quilting?
A standard 1/4-inch seam allowance is typically used for crumb quilting, but this can vary depending on the project and the size of the fabric pieces.
Is crumb quilting suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Crumb quilting is a great way for beginners to practice their sewing skills and experiment with different fabric combinations without worrying about precision.
How can I store my fabric crumbs?
Keeping your fabric crumbs organized in little bins or containers by color or size can make the crumb quilting process more manageable and enjoyable.
More Projects Using Fabric Scraps
Grab your scraps and quilt crumbs for the scrappy needle keeper – perfect for keeping your pins and needles safe.
Watch the video for the mile a minute technique which helps you sew your scrap fabric together quickly.
Learn how to use your little fabric bits or crumbs for leaders and enders – never have your fabric stuck under the needle again.
Becky Jorgensen is the creative quilter behind Patchwork Posse, the Patchwork Planner and her online quilt group Patchworkers Plus. You can find her patterns in books, magazines, and her quilt membership. Gather your quilting supplies, organize your sewing space, explore the process of disappearing quilt blocks, or finish a free quilt pattern. I'll help you use what you have, finish what you start and make your quilting journey fun!
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