How to Recycle Fabric Scraps

Many useful and fun things can be made from a pile of fabric scraps, so don't throw those away. Recycle fabric scraps yourself or pass them along to someone who will gladly put them to good use.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric scissors
• Sewing machine
• Measuring tape
• Thread
• Sewing needles
• Embroidery thread & needle
• Crochet hook
• Bias tape

Instructions

1. 

   Sort fabric scraps into complimentary color piles. Randomly sew these scraps together on the sewing machine into a large square shape. Cut a circle out of this square. Attach a fringe along the hemline to create a cloth suitable to cover a side table or a piano bench, as shown.

2. 

   Crochet a rag rug with recycled fabric scraps. Tear fabric into long strips. Sew ends together and roll into a large ball as the strips are sewn. Use basic crochet stitches and a giant hook to make the rug. Cut short lengths of blue jean fabric for the fringe.

3. 

   Create fabric yoyos in various sizes using recycled fabric scraps. Make them by hand or use the new yoyo templates that are available now if a more uniform yoyo is preferred. Sew yoyos together to make a fun scarf or use them in more traditional form to construct table runners, decorative table cloths or bed covers.

4. 

   Make small lap quilts quickly using fabric scraps. Cut out 3 inch by 3 inch cloth pieces. Sew together in a 1/4" seam. Bind a solid back piece with the checkered front piece using double fold bias tape.

5. 

   Recycle silk fabric scraps together to make a colorful crazy quilt piece large enough to fit a picture frame. Embroider along seam lines, varying stitches and using colored thread for interest. Iron on back side of piece on low heat using a pressing cloth. Frame and hang.

Tips & Warnings

• Faded clothing can be torn up and used to construct a project using fabric scraps.

• Please donate recycled fabric scraps if you are unable to use them yourself.

Resources

• How to Make a Rag Rug with Fringe
• How to Create a YoYo Scarf