Hello everyone. Here is my first video in a new series on scraps. How to handle them and what to do with them. Always happy to hear what you do with scraps so please put your comments in the notes below. Links to the fabulous quilts show are in the links.
Forgive my boldness, but I LOVE YOU!! Ha. You have the best and most practical ideas. You’ve given me some good ideas on managing my scraps. I cut mine into 2 1/2” strips, 5” squares, 10” squares, and fat quarters, but I’m still overwhelmed by them. Thank you for the great ideas! After quilts YES please. 😃
Thank you for this because I just cannot throw away scraps, I feel like I'm sinning to throw away a perfectly good piece of fabric but im not experienced enough to look at a bunch of different prints and sizes and come up with a block. I'm very much a follow the pattern type of girl. So, thank you!! Please keep these scrap videos coming!!!
I am a volunteer adoption counselor at our local shelter. I use scraps (and some larger pieces) to make blocks I want to try, but I don’t want to commit to making 20 of them. I then put them with some sashing or borders and make cat and dog quilts. Cat quilts are usually less than 20”x20” and dog quilts are usually less than 40” x 40”. I give them to the pets as they are adopted. I’m quickly using up fabric I wouldn’t have been able to use before. My goal is colorful and fun. The new pet families love them. And I get to complete more quilts. More Information: I finished piecing my scraps for the tops/backs of about 40 cat and dog quilts using up my entire scrap pile. Whew! Took about 4 weeks. It’s taking me another 4 weeks to quilt them all. Some of them are quilted onto cat or dog fabric with batting. I’ve put several of the smaller ones on my long arm using a large backing to do several at once. I also started a small quilt group at the nursing home where I volunteer. There are about 8 ladies who join up once a month to help piece the cat and dog tops. I cut the fabric in advance, mostly using 6x6 squares. I have plenty of variety and include lots of colorful dog and cat prints. They pick out what to sew together and I sew along with another volunteer or a staff member. We spend about an hour to an hour and a half each time. The staff mentioned that this little activity has brought at least one lady out of her shell. There are lots of smiles around the group. I don’t try to edit their choices, since the new pet owners and the pets are just thrilled to get these little projects. Colorful is the key. We usually will take two sessions to finish the tops since there are several ladies picking and only two sewing, but they don’t seem to mind. They also asked me to bring a quilt of my own each time “for inspiration.” They have enjoyed seeing the ones I’ve brought so far.
That is so sweet. Just a thought : the cats and dogs who have not yet been adopted might like their own quilt too .. and take it with them when they leave .. a familiar smell to help them settle into their new homes. I love your idea and will suggest it to my sewing group .. thanks for the inspiration.
ingfig1 Unfortunately, I can’t quilt fast enough to make one for all the pets that come in before they are adopted. We are a very large shelter. However, we have other dedicated volunteers who crochet and knit quilts/blankets to send home with the pets. We don’t use them in the kennel/cage while the pet is here because we wash the bedding daily. We usually use towels for bedding in the kennels/cages because they can be washed and dried more consistently. You should see our washers and dryers. My son’s Ford Focus compact is about the same size. Having said that, I’m finding I’m much more inspired to make these smaller quilts because I can experiment so freely.
I pre cut into squares from 2.5in - 5 in all colours and place in plastic bins. When bin is full I start to assemble into a quilt. I am basically a charity quilt maker Every child , those in shelters, anyone and everyone needs to be as warm as possible,If I can help do that it's made my day. I back them with polar fleece for extra warmth. Some years I may get 300 quilts done and they go to different shelters along with pillow cases I am 80 this year and I have slowed down instead of 3 tops per day I may get 2 done. I make tops for 1 month then spend 2 weeks putting the backings on. I make easy patterns like 3 yard quilts Always looking for ideas
Robin Malek I trade fabric postcards online. We have women in almost every state and even overseas. I trade with Postcard Art Traders and Trading Fabric Postcards. Yahoo will not let you use an iPad to access the trade group sites. There are a lot of tutorials on how to make fabric postcards. I hope this information is helpful.
I do one or two pillow sham/s with just about every quilt I make. Funny thing was that my grandson and his wife thought we'd only given them some money and a pillow for their wedding and didn't discover the quilt inside it for almost a year. So the takeaway from this is that if you do this, let your recipient know.
I took your advice and made a back, for a quilt, with my scraps. The 10 year old girl, that I made the quilt for, was so excited because now she has a reversible quilt! I never thought of it like that, but she loves it. And, it save me from spending more money on more fabric. Thank you for the ideas! I love your videos!!!!
When I finish a quilt as a gift, I place large scraps, binding leftovers, and the remaining spool of quilting thread in a large zip bag and give it to the recipient in case any repairs need to be made in the future. That frees up space in my sewing room. 😊
In keep all my scraps! I sort them into various categories, then when I have enough, I just randomly sew them together, incorporating almost every shape imaginable until I make a crazy piece of fabric large enough for a shopping bag. I line the pieced fabric with interfacing, and use the leftovers from quilt backs to make the linings. So far the reactions have been nothing but positive :)
I use the "lumberyard" scrap management system. I add a 1/2" to every cut, but I call them 2x2, 2x4, 2x6, 2x8, 4x4, kindling (smaller that 2 1/2" strips), trusses (triangles). Makes it fun and I can create a lot of quilts from these pieces. I draw out the quilt pattern on grid paper and it works out pretty well. I find I give a lot more quilts to charity now that I have a system.
Kathy Stuart That is so funny. I LOVE it. Having been a craft woodworker for years, I found I could really relate to your comment. I don't have a system but I too make quilts for donation. It's a good feeling and once donated, it makes more room to restock for next fall.
My first lesson on what to do with my scraps. I'm a quilt teacher and yes, I collected all the scraps in the trash cans when my students left the classroom. I have so many scraps in three large storage tubs. Can't close the tops on two of them. Thank you for the wonderful ideas. Can't wait to try them out. I like the idea of using the scraps either on the back or for the binding. ❤
Try calling the local animal shelter. Make a pillowcase with the scraps and donate as a bed for the animal. These little fur friends don’t care what it looks like. I made sure to include large med and small sizes and adjusted the weight of scraps inside by weight - these are an easy way to get rid of scraps and do fur friends a lovely bed to fluff in. I actually made an envelope pillow to cover the bed for easy washing and drying
Love all your scrap busting blocks. I have one more I like. I have heard it called the exploding block. Take a 5 inch block and cut a solid color 5 inch block and place right sides together and sew 1/4 inch all around the block. on the solid block draw a line diagonally both ways. With sharp scissors clip where the diagonal line meets in the middle of the solid block only. Then carefully cut from the middle up to each corner but DO NOT cut into seam. Fold back and press flat. I love this because you can grow the block to the size you want for finished block. Just add another square of fabric the same size of the one just finished and sew all around and cut again as before. I have sewn as many as 8 rows starting with 2 1/2 inch pieces, and growing from there. They do not have rounded points not sharp ones and can really look unique! Your tutorials have inspired me to not give up on MY MT Scrapmore! Thank-you!!!!
I'm miserly with my paper scraps and I too need an intervention. You just gave me ideas of how to make "blocks" with my paper scraps. And, I wish I was brave and patient enough to make some quilts. The ones you show are beautiful.
I used to belong to Post Card Pizzazz. It was a group, made up of quilters around the world. We made post cards by theme and were put together with another post card maker. It was so much fun, but after a year, it was time for me to move on. Don't know if they still do that or not. It was a Yahoo group. Check as there used to be several groups.
By the way, I use a hanging sweater rack for 1/2 to 1 yard pieces and a hanging shoe rack for fat quarters. Any fabric 2 yds or more is hung. Scraps are in marked bins on a storage shelf unit in the closet ... yes, blessed with a walk in closet for stash storage.
You are SO rite, those little buggers DO have babies when you're not looking! & I'm now unindated with them. But I began yesterday to begin dealing with them & found that it was a nice relaxing change from the big projects I've just finished. Thanks for all your advice on how to deal with this & all the blocks we can make.
Scrap central here. I much prefer the little ones than actual yardage! It’s crazy but it’s like discovering old friends. I keep my scraps in a dresser by color and like you I cut them into strips and squares. Squares go in a little bin. I’m a big fan of piecing on phone book paper and love building scrappy strips and strings. Thanks for another great video!
L Friedman : Ah, phone book paper ... I remember seeing that suggestion a long time ago, but forgot about it. Thanks for the reminder. I assume you tear the paper off the back as in "paper piecing" before sewing your resulting "made" fabric together into blocks?
This video was a game changer for me since I took over my mother's stash which consisted of many scrap pieces. I cut the smaller, odd shaped pieces into 2.5" strips and 5 and 10 inch squares. Since then I made a scrappy log cabin quilt (which I love). I also had a HST pattern that used charm packs that I wanted to try first so I could have a practice quilt for my FMQ. I pulled all of my pieces from my 5" squares from my scraps and made a beautiful throw that helped me work out my FMQ for the one I was making for my son. It is a favorite now. Then I started making bowl cozies and have utilized many of my 10" squares. So THANK YOU for this great video.
Oh how I needed this right now! Mt Scrapmore is a great description. I have a 9 cube bookshelf system that holds all of my big scraps - anything less than 1/2 yard or random fat quarter. Then I have plastic shoeboxes for scraps that I've cut into 2.5", 3", 5", 6" squares and 2.5" strips. Finally, I also have a large tote bag of strings and small pieces for string quilts. This bag is also my grandkids favorite "toy" when they visit. They dump all the fabric in the family room floor and make "snow" angels and bury each other. 🤷♀️😆
Dog beds have to be chew-resistant. Dogs tear open a lot of different kinds of fabrics, and scraps of all sorts pose a choking hazard, or if swallowed can get trapped in the gut and kill them (happened to my son's dog).
I put scraps in a dollar store basket and these are for the grandkids to make stuff with. They know they can do whatever they want with them . Cut glue sew whatever. This keeps them from getting into my other fabrics and they love sewing and crafting with grandma.
Love it! Mount scrapmore! I have so much scraps that I’m beginning to make little things, like book marks, coin purses, card wallets, crayon roll ups for my grandkids, anything that uses very small amounts of fabric.
im pretty new to sewing and quilting, and i made some potholders out of scraps. im also a long time knitter and crocheter so i had leftover yarn dating to projects from 25 years ago. i made a scrap yarn blanket for myself and now with some volunteers we are transforming the yarn and fabric into blankets and pillows for the foster centre we volunteer at. kids love colourful pillows and blankets!
That’s a great idea, an after quilt. I found an old tomato box filled with 2 1/2” strips. I made a lot of American Girl doll dresses in the 90s, my friend and I would do craft shows and sell them. I must have cut the strips from the leftover fabric from the dresses. I was going to give them away but I decided I would use them. I went through that entire box. I got 83 10.5” squares from the strips which made one crib quilt and five 50x70” quilt tops. One of the tops is made from the scraps of the leftover pieces from the previous 4 tops that were too short to get a full square so I cleaned them up and just sewed them all together.
This video spoke to me in every segment. I always buy more just in case I make a mistake. No, no, no, not anymore. I like the idea of having scrap block patterns at hand. It seems like I spend more time searching the internet for blocks I might like while my scrap pile does not decrease! And the backing idea is priceless, because you are right, I am so sick of the fabric I don't want to see it again, lol. Can't wait to watch the other videos.
An after quilt design video would be great! I try to do a back design with all of my quilts but then am challenged with a quilting pattern that showcases the front but doesn’t interfere with the reverse side design. Also talk about the challenge of taking it to a long arm quilter and having them center/ position the reverse side correctly. Learned my lesson of never having an outer border on the reverse side - too hard to align. Thank you for your fantastic videos - they are fun, fast, idea filled and balance creativity with practicality that a crafter needs so we don’t get overwhelmed!
I cut 2 1/2 inch strips and organize them by color: ROYGBP, white(ish), grey, black, brown. I put spare jelly roll strips in those piles as well. I use them a lot, and sorting by color works for me. Smaller and odd shapes I put in bins by color. I make improv pieces with a color theme and keep those wip in the bins with the scraps of that color. I keep everything that is at least 1 x 1 inch.
Thank you for this useful, practical information. I'm binge watching all your videos - it's just what I needed. Hey - here's a scrap idea - make potholders and mug rugs, or pads for hot casserole dishes.
I love scraps and the creativity that comes from using them. It took me awhile to find “my” system. I kept trying to use other people’s systems but as a scrap quilter I don’t create the same way that a standard quilter might. I try to stay disciplined and trim my scraps after each project so my to be processed scrap bin isn’t too overflowing.
Hello from Queensland, Australia. As predominately an embroiderer, I often use fabric for finishing and presenting my embroidery projects . Once done, I'd never bothered about the left overs except to store them in my 'by colour' fabric drawers. I have a new reverence for my fabric scraps since I began using up my crumbs for quilting. I use the small rectangular food freezer boxes in each drawer of fabrics sorted by colour and a bonus one for Christmas. I only keep 1 box full for each colour and beside it I store smaller pieces that are ready to be crumbs (up to 12" square). Then if I'm ready for a small project I can go to the box or the larger piles beside the boxes. As I now sort and consider my scraps, I've used up lots of them. When I have time to make some crumb strips or blocks, I bring the fullest freezer box (or 2) to my machine and improvise. I'm finding it such fun. Thanks for the organising tips. Following them has helped a lot.
I bought the "Scrap therapy" book. In it she said about cutting your scraps into certain sizes. I have done that since. Just finished my first scrap quilt from the book.
I love all these ideas! I think I'm going to tackle my scraps and stash in January. It is going to be a large "Mount Scrapmore" as I've been collecting for about 30 years! Ahhhhhh!
To keep my scraps organised I have a selection of boxes - shoe boxes are excellent - labeled 'squares', 'triangles', 'rectangles', 'strips' etc. and the scraps are stored in the appropriate boxes. Makes finding the shape I want much quicker and easier! Like you I keep crumbs too!
I agree with all the other posts, please do an after quilt tutorial. Although, I must admit that by the time i finish piecing the top, all I want to do is finish the rest as soon as possible, in the easiest way possible. So I don’t know if I will have the patience to do more piecing for the back, although I love the look of a pieced back. Also, postcard tutorial, please. Also love the ideas for cutting the scraps into often used pieces. Our quilt store has someone who collects scraps to make dog beds for the local animal shelter. I collect all the scraps when I cut or trim, then bring in the bag to the store. I just did a major purge of my stash when I moved into a new space, so also donated larger scraps of fabric and blocks I couldn’t stand to look at anymore. Helped to reduce the stash, but I still have a very large bin full of scraps waiting to be cut down and organized. Oh well! Will get to it at some point.
I admit I often am too tried of the fabric to make an Afterquilt...and it's sits as a UFO until I get can my energy up again. And any commissioned quilts I also use a one piece back on.
Love your videso! Once again I am inspired to run downstairs to my sewing room and cut up my scraps! Love your ideas and will get to work on this ASAP! I too have incorporated the leftovers into the backing of my quilts. When I give the quilt to the intended recipient it always surprises them to see the detailing on the backing.
Thank you for this video. I bought garbage bags of scraps at a garage sale years ago. I took all of the flannel scraps and cut them into 10", 5" , and 2.5"squares and 2.5 x 5" rectangles. While doing this all these ideas came to me on how to use them. Since they were mainly male plaid fabrics, the males in my family will be getting some awesome quilts.
Your scrap management and ironing techniques are very helpful for me. I never finger pressed before listening to you. I am a fairly new quilter. I want to learn more about scrap management as well as learning time management too in order to get projects completed!
I am besotted with QAYG scrap quilts made with strips. I have made quite a few including one for my son's custom made king bed - he is 6'6", and it was 2.5 by 2.7 metres! I am now getting ready to make one using up all my black and white fabrics for a friend in the States. I take my left over strips, roll up a bunch of them, anchor them with a pin and store them in a box until I need them. I also cut my scraps into sizes for a series of blocks and these are great for making charity quilts through my quilt group. Thanks so much for your inspiration Karen.
Wise advise. I am just making my 1st quilt after 35 years. Cut out and ready to sew tomorrow. Oh yes, I did the no no, bought extra fabric. Was working off a picture without a pattern. Didn't want to run out so yes have too much of some fabrics. However I am going to make pillow cases. Love this idea! There is nothing nicer than having shames or pillow cases that match ones quilt. When I am done I will be taking your wise advise and cut the scraps, "organizing by sizes" first. Thank you for your wonderful video Karen. So happy to have found you. Darlene Nova Scotia
I have sorted all my fabric.....into several totes from the Thirty One company. four totes are just FQs. one is for WOF pieces of various widths... two are for single pieces and more than one of each fabric but not yardage. They work best for me in my small house, and therefore small sewing space
Great video! When I make a quilt the left over material, if I’m lucky to get some, is made into a pillowcase or a pillow, a cosmetic bag of some sort, a tote bag and a small card that has all the samples of fabric in the quilt. The strip you take off to square up the fabric gets saved and then I crochet a stash bucket or bowl or ball. I almost have more fun playing with the leftovers than sewing the quilt. I also cut up 5” squares and 2 1/2” strips. Scrappy quilts are also my favourite cause I get to relive all the items I’ve sewed with the materials. Yup I’ve found my niche and still learning. Loved to see your video of afterquilts
With my scraps I sort them by general color family and style (meaning baby, Christmas, metallic, etc.) I then make HSTs in various sizes because i use them so often. I will now start incorporating long scraps into binding - THAT IS BRILLIANT ❣❣❣❣
I make scrap rolls using adding paper as a base. You have to find the non-heat sensative kind. When I get a couple rolls I use a solid color to put in strips between and make a quilt. Extras go on the back.
I have an Accuquilt Go machine so I cut my scraps into shapes and make charity quilts from the blocks. I've made 6 quilts so far from the tumbler shape. The smaller scraps I put in a bag marked "small quilt scraps" and take to the Good Will drop off. They recycle it into insulation and rugs and several other usable products.
I love watching your videos Karen. Using a quilt's leftovers for future bindings is a great idea. It sure is better than cutting it all up into smaller peices. 👍👍
For my parents 50th Ann quilt, I made a bag, with zipper & handle, for the quilt when being stored. I added another black & white photo on fabric on the front of the bag, for identification; works great!
I use to have what I call is my leftover bin but I have graduated to a bag, much smaller. I now keep it under control, in fact I just emptied my leftover bag on Monday. I then was always reverting to making crumb blocks. At one time I had over 375 crumb blocks. This time I had a number of strips so I did the 60 degree triangles and 6.5" 60 degree triangles. I ended up with 80 6.5" and 32 12.5". I will make the top/s then I need to clean & straighten out my fabric.
Very timely video for me. Just finished 2 quilts, my first projects and am surrounded by scraps. I wish I had known about an after quilt. I had a hard time finding a piece of fabric for the back. Your quilt backs are gorgeous. PLEASE do a tutorial. PS. It was your stash buster quilt tutorial that gave me the courage to get started ❤
Yes!! I neeeeed to see an AfterQuilt Video! Right now I’ve no process for my scraps but after seeing this, I think I’m gonna try to implement some of what you suggested. Thank you!
I sort my scraps in bins with the following widths: 1½", 2", 2½", 3", 3½", 4", and 5". They can be any length or square. I use them frequently, and so far this system is working out very well.
Wish you were here to un scrap my stash, I have small and large plastic containers of scraps For which I have good intentions to use to make a scrap quilt but nothing ever gets done as I just add more scraps. I think your video is inspiring me to take an hour a week and sort my stash and start throwing away a bag a week of never to be used scraps. Thank you for this video. How many containers I am to embarrassed to count them. LOL 😂
Check with your library for quilters groups. They may be thrilled to have your left over leftovers. Church resales as well. I hunt there for more. ))))
I watched a video on back pack buddies "National Quilters Circle" (stuffed heart shaped with added hook) and ran with it. I made scrap key chains and scrap pot holders. I had so much fun! I had scraps from a quilt (hadn't heard of after quilt) so I turned them into lap robes and donated to a nursing home. I also made a scrap quilt from clothing construction, flannel. Being new to quilting, I had doubt to color so I saw a block where use a yellow pie shape on diagonal, just sew scraps on both sides, sew blocks to form stars 🤩, bound with yellow to tie it all together.
Hi! I am currently using up all scraps. So this was very timely for me. The last five quilts I take the time to log cabin up all the scraps from the currently finished top... so while my art work is at the long arm lady’s house, I make as many blocks as my scraps from that quilt will allow and bag them up. I just made 20 pot holders. I pass them out to neighbors, young wives and mothers, and even my kids!! Everyone is happy for a cheerful new something for their kitchen!! You have inspired me with your after quilt idea. ❤️
I sort by planned projects or by color for scraps. I only keep pieces 2" or larger. I typically cut into 2.5" strips, 5" squares or 10" squares (yes, I over buy). These are set aside until I need them. I use shoe box size plastic storage containers. I would love to see an after-quilt project.
I love the no guilt take on scrapping! I have been inspired now to begin a crumb quilt and yes go through all those scraps and create first, usable sizes. 2.5 " stips, 5" blocks, 10" blocks, fat quarters, 9" quarters. then crumb with the drops! Loving it!
I had too many scrap bits and it bothered me so I made a quilt from it and gave it to my mum who loves it. I must say it took me a few days to finish it because all the pieces weren't the same size and some smaller than others. It does take time to sew the bits together. Nevertheless it felt good that I was able to use the scraps to make something from it. Thank you for a great video. I so enjoy watching your videos.
With my scraps that are given to me I cut them up into different size of squares and put each size into a plastic shoe box. My tiniest squares is 2×2. The rest I just sew together to make a crazy quilt. I like your idea of how to use the scraps on here. You are so nice and have very good sewing skills
My organization: From scraps I made fabric boxes, one of each common color. Larger scrap pieces go into the appropriate colored box. Within each box is a ziplock bag that holds small pieces. If a box starts to over flow I will spend some time to cut standard squares. I love using pieces for bags and boxes and purses and wallets and placemats and cards. Scraps are the quilting bonus! Thank you for sharing your expertise and experience. Your videos thoughtful and thorough.
I appreciate the advice about dont overbuy. Yup, good advice I could have done with 6 months ago. What you don’t mention is how the people selling fabrics always advise you to buy a bit extra just in case. As beginner I’ve ended up with so much extra because when I said to the lady I was a beginner so I’m not sure, she said I needed half a yard extra “just in case”. Fortunately I’m making masks with all these bits!!
Exactly!! I started saving my scraps in three small boxes--less than an inch (yes!), 1-3", and 3-4"--pieces are chosen by their longest dimension for the right box. When they are full, I sit and start sewing the 1-3" pieces t together in pairs, save them if I don't have time to do anything at the moment or show all the pairs together into fours and the fours into eights, etc until I get mini quilts the size approximately of a placemat, then I save that for other projects such as cutting into small 3"x6" blocks and surrounding them with white jelly roll strips and stack those blocks up for assembly into a quilt. One afternoon can really go through the scraps.
I love all your helpful tips and advice! Thanks for making another great video! I would love to see an after quilt video! I find you videos condensed with lots of information and having to replay... can we slow it down a bit? I've benefited greatly from all you ideas ... thank you! Anna from Manitoba
Oh thank you so much. I am a new quilter, less than 3 months, and I already have a pile of scraps. Now I know what to do with them. I love cutting fabric so this should be fun.
I do many of the same things you do. I cut my scraps into 2 1/2 inch strips, 2 1/2 inch squares and 5 inch squares. I store them in plastic bins sorted by light and dark, bright and muted colours. I make a few scrap quilts for my guild's outreach program every year.
I am not a patch worker, I do clothing. Last winter, I spent folding all the fabrics onto foam board. Destashing at the same time. There's so much it ended up on cardboard. Then it was onto the notions, lace, elastic ,ribbon, you name it. I used some scrapbooking (vintage style)supplies to pretty it all up. They each go into 12litre plastic bins labeled. By the time I finished it was spring. Lol . I am new here, you have given me some great tips. Loved the vlog of lining the drawers, making dividers with a bin on top.its all about using the space better and being able to find it! I am blessed to have a whole room as my studio, it means I can walk off and leave it, come back and continue. It hasn't always been that way, I so appreciate it. Passion for fabrics has always been my thing. Keep up the good work, its all about sharing.
I have had resistance and refusal from longarmers to put afterquils on the back of a "nice quilt". They say it is too difficult to do. Any suggestions other than use different longarmers and learning how to longarm myself?
Best tip for dealing with the growing mountain of assorted scraps I am facing. I didn't know where to start, now I have a clear idea of what to do! Many thanks for that!
We also do that here ! I keep a bag near my sewing machine and I collect all the threads and shreds which make soft pillows for the dogs and cats at the SPCA (shelter). Scraps of batting go into stuffed toys (also made from fabric scraps) to raise funds for the SPCA.
Dog beds have to be chew-resistant. Dogs tear open a lot of different kinds of fabrics, and scraps of all sorts pose a choking hazard, or if swallowed can get trapped in the gut and kill them (happened to my son's dog).
Thanks for this video! I love your tip for making binding from squaring your quilts. There are so many ways to manage scraps that it becomes overwhelming so I'm looking forward to a future series on what to make with scraps.
I love watching your videos. As I was watching, I rolled my scraps up and put them in a cute box. I put a small pin in them to keep them together. Something to do when I'm bored🙂
Would love to see a video on an after quilt! Also information on the postcard quilt piece. Love your videos, they have been so helpful especially in color choices.
Remember junk journallers love small pieces of scrap fabric - so there is always someone willing to take small to tiny pieces. Love these practical solutions thank you.
Nice video! I also would like an after-quilt video. I manage scraps by cutting largest usable size and have a small box for string and crumb quilt improv.
Thank you for your great tips. My Husband I have had a country change and he has built me a lovely dedicated sewing room. Before we left I stripped out any fabric I felt I would not use, I am dealing it’s my stash and another copious one that belonged to a dear friend who passed away. I donated several 60 litre bins of fabric to charity groups I knew of as well as selecting bundles for 2 dear friends that I felt would be useful for them in their current projects. After watching yours and other videos I am realising that each colour bin stored in our loft is loaded with scraps that I felt would b useful sizes for “something”. Over the 12 months we have been here I have taken fabrics down from these boxes, and I am in the process of stripping these down to useable sizes and also cutting 1/2” hexies for my Insanity Quilt. I am itching for my Husband to fix down my new bench tops today so that I can start some simple blocks that you have suggested in your latest video. Thank you again. Marianne Boot Gayndah Queensland Australia
After watching this video, I did a scarp management day on my AccuQuilt yesterday & cut all my scraps into jelly rolls. Now, I don’t feel so helpless with those darn scraps. Thank you😊
I gave this a definite thumbs up, because I'm one of those people who can't pass the scraps up in the Goodwill store. I have so many, I don't know what to do with them ---- yet! But, thank you for the ideas to manage them.
Hello everyone. Here is my first video in a new series on scraps. How to handle them and what to do with them. Always happy to hear what you do with scraps so please put your comments in the notes below. Links to the fabulous quilts show are in the links.
I love it! Let's get scrappy!
Just Get it Done Quilts yes, make an after quilt video
Just Get it Done Quilts Yes! I would love to see a video on “after quilts.” That would be fantastic! Thank you.
Forgive my boldness, but I LOVE YOU!! Ha. You have the best and most practical ideas. You’ve given me some good ideas on managing my scraps. I cut mine into 2 1/2” strips, 5” squares, 10” squares, and fat quarters, but I’m still overwhelmed by them. Thank you for the great ideas! After quilts YES please. 😃
Thank you for this because I just cannot throw away scraps, I feel like I'm sinning to throw away a perfectly good piece of fabric but im not experienced enough to look at a bunch of different prints and sizes and come up with a block. I'm very much a follow the pattern type of girl. So, thank you!! Please keep these scrap videos coming!!!
I am a volunteer adoption counselor at our local shelter. I use scraps (and some larger pieces) to make blocks I want to try, but I don’t want to commit to making 20 of them. I then put them with some sashing or borders and make cat and dog quilts. Cat quilts are usually less than 20”x20” and dog quilts are usually less than 40” x 40”. I give them to the pets as they are adopted. I’m quickly using up fabric I wouldn’t have been able to use before. My goal is colorful and fun. The new pet families love them. And I get to complete more quilts.
More Information: I finished piecing my scraps for the tops/backs of about 40 cat and dog quilts using up my entire scrap pile. Whew! Took about 4 weeks. It’s taking me another 4 weeks to quilt them all. Some of them are quilted onto cat or dog fabric with batting. I’ve put several of the smaller ones on my long arm using a large backing to do several at once.
I also started a small quilt group at the nursing home where I volunteer. There are about 8 ladies who join up once a month to help piece the cat and dog tops. I cut the fabric in advance, mostly using 6x6 squares. I have plenty of variety and include lots of colorful dog and cat prints. They pick out what to sew together and I sew along with another volunteer or a staff member. We spend about an hour to an hour and a half each time. The staff mentioned that this little activity has brought at least one lady out of her shell. There are lots of smiles around the group. I don’t try to edit their choices, since the new pet owners and the pets are just thrilled to get these little projects. Colorful is the key. We usually will take two sessions to finish the tops since there are several ladies picking and only two sewing, but they don’t seem to mind.
They also asked me to bring a quilt of my own each time “for inspiration.” They have enjoyed seeing the ones I’ve brought so far.
That is so sweet. Just a thought : the cats and dogs who have not yet been adopted might like their own quilt too .. and take it with them when they leave .. a familiar smell to help them settle into their new homes. I love your idea and will suggest it to my sewing group .. thanks for the inspiration.
ingfig1 Unfortunately, I can’t quilt fast enough to make one for all the pets that come in before they are adopted. We are a very large shelter. However, we have other dedicated volunteers who crochet and knit quilts/blankets to send home with the pets. We don’t use them in the kennel/cage while the pet is here because we wash the bedding daily. We usually use towels for bedding in the kennels/cages because they can be washed and dried more consistently. You should see our washers and dryers. My son’s Ford Focus compact is about the same size. Having said that, I’m finding I’m much more inspired to make these smaller quilts because I can experiment so freely.
I pre cut into squares from 2.5in - 5 in all colours and place in plastic bins. When bin is full I start to assemble into a quilt. I am basically a charity quilt maker Every child , those in shelters, anyone and everyone needs to be as warm as possible,If I can help do that it's made my day. I back them with polar fleece for extra warmth. Some years I may get 300 quilts done and they go to different shelters along with pillow cases I am 80 this year and I have slowed down instead of 3 tops per day I may get 2 done. I make tops for 1 month then spend 2 weeks putting the backings on. I make easy patterns like 3 yard quilts Always looking for ideas
Postcards? Yes please! Improv? Backing? Yes please! Love this one!
Robin Malek I trade fabric postcards online. We have women in almost every state and even overseas. I trade with Postcard Art Traders and Trading Fabric Postcards. Yahoo will not let you use an iPad to access the trade group sites.
There are a lot of tutorials on how to make fabric postcards. I hope this information is helpful.
Yes please!!
What is fabric postcards?
Love to make quilted postcards. Easy and quick. And people love them.
I do one or two pillow sham/s with just about every quilt I make. Funny thing was that my grandson and his wife thought we'd only given them some money and a pillow for their wedding and didn't discover the quilt inside it for almost a year. So the takeaway from this is that if you do this, let your recipient know.
Please do a video for an after quilt.
I agree. Pauline
Yes! So interested!
Please, please do an 'After Quilt' ! Amy
Yes please do an after quilt thank you
Hi, please do after quilt video!
I took your advice and made a back, for a quilt, with my scraps. The 10 year old girl, that I made the quilt for, was so excited because now she has a reversible quilt! I never thought of it like that, but she loves it. And, it save me from spending more money on more fabric. Thank you for the ideas! I love your videos!!!!
When I finish a quilt as a gift, I place large scraps, binding leftovers, and the remaining spool of quilting thread in a large zip bag and give it to the recipient in case any repairs need to be made in the future. That frees up space in my sewing room. 😊
That's an amazing idea.. most of the ppl I know would throw it away. Hmm great idea I'll have to try it anyways lol
What a great idea! Thank you. 😀
Wish I had done this for my son when his dog decided to chew holes in his new quilt.
Such a thoughtful and clever idea. Mind blown! Lol
Blissful Acres, my son asked me to fix the chewed blanket. Guess I keep the fixings for when I need them! 😂
In keep all my scraps! I sort them into various categories, then when I have enough, I just randomly sew them together, incorporating almost every shape imaginable until I make a crazy piece of fabric large enough for a shopping bag. I line the pieced fabric with interfacing, and use the leftovers from quilt backs to make the linings. So far the reactions have been nothing but positive :)
I like making crazy pieces of fabric, too!
Awesome idea! Thanks!!
Why are pieces lined, please? Maybe light weight or different fabric?
@@celinevukson8754 interfacing protects the edges of the seams in the blocks.
I would love videos about every scrap technique mentioned in this video. I have SO many scraps and would love the after-quilt video especially.
I love the idea of making a pillow case to match the quilt! I will be doing that in the future
I do that all the time! I always seem to have way too much material at the end of my quilt! Lol
I started making scrappy pillowcases and the kids just love'em.
I use the "lumberyard" scrap management system. I add a 1/2" to every cut, but I call them 2x2, 2x4, 2x6, 2x8, 4x4, kindling (smaller that 2 1/2" strips), trusses (triangles). Makes it fun and I can create a lot of quilts from these pieces. I draw out the quilt pattern on grid paper and it works out pretty well. I find I give a lot more quilts to charity now that I have a system.
You must have a builder in you life somewhere. ;) My husband is a mechanic by trade but can build or fix anything!
@@kimschmidgall1622
'll
Kathy Stuart That is so funny. I LOVE it. Having been a craft woodworker for years, I found I could really relate to your comment. I don't have a system but I too make quilts for donation. It's a good feeling and once donated, it makes more room to restock for next fall.
I need a video
Each scrap is cut 2.5 x 2.5, 2.5 x 4.5, etc?
My first lesson on what to do with my scraps. I'm a quilt teacher and yes, I collected all the scraps in the trash cans when my students left the classroom. I have so many scraps in three large storage tubs. Can't close the tops on two of them. Thank you for the wonderful ideas. Can't wait to try them out. I like the idea of using the scraps either on the back or for the binding. ❤
I pick scraps from bins when I go to quilt retreats. Most people cant believe I even want them.
Try calling the local animal shelter. Make a pillowcase with the scraps and donate as a bed for the animal. These little fur friends don’t care what it looks like. I made sure to include large med and small sizes and adjusted the weight of scraps inside by weight - these are an easy way to get rid of scraps and do fur friends a lovely bed to fluff in. I actually made an envelope pillow to cover the bed for easy washing and drying
“Don’t overbuy!” I need that tattooed on my forehead!
Tattoo it to your wallet!
hello from kuwait 🇰🇼 , me too 🤭😆
Colleen Nicholls hahaha
Make a wallet from your scraps! Then you'll remember as you pay. Of course by that time the fabric has already been cut for you... Oh well, next time!
Preach sister.....lol....but there’s too many beautiful colours I always come home with extra
Love all your scrap busting blocks. I have one more I like. I have heard it called the exploding block. Take a 5 inch block and cut a solid color 5 inch block and place right sides together and sew 1/4 inch all around the block. on the solid block draw a line diagonally both ways. With sharp scissors clip where the diagonal line meets in the middle of the solid block only. Then carefully cut from the middle up to each corner but DO NOT cut into seam. Fold back and press flat. I love this because you can grow the block to the size you want for finished block. Just add another square of fabric the same size of the one just finished and sew all around and cut again as before. I have sewn as many as 8 rows starting with 2 1/2 inch pieces, and growing from there. They do not have rounded points not sharp ones and can really look unique! Your tutorials have inspired me to not give up on MY MT Scrapmore! Thank-you!!!!
Great ideas! Cutting scraps to standard sizes is brilliant. Please make a video about after quilts.
I'm miserly with my paper scraps and I too need an intervention. You just gave me ideas of how to make "blocks" with my paper scraps. And, I wish I was brave and patient enough to make some quilts. The ones you show are beautiful.
Postcard????? Would love a video on that!! Love your video and I'm not even quilting!
I used to belong to Post Card Pizzazz. It was a group, made up of quilters around the world. We made post cards by theme and were put together with another post card maker. It was so much fun, but after a year, it was time for me to move on. Don't know if they still do that or not. It was a Yahoo group. Check as there used to be several groups.
@@cornerstone403 Thank you! I will! Such a small inviting project! So busy anymore with no time to play in the sewing room!
Carol Schedler yes, me, too
Thanks for your suggestions!! 😃
By the way, I use a hanging sweater rack for 1/2 to 1 yard pieces and a hanging shoe rack for fat quarters. Any fabric 2 yds or more is hung. Scraps are in marked bins on a storage shelf unit in the closet ... yes, blessed with a walk in closet for stash storage.
You are SO rite, those little buggers DO have babies when you're not looking! & I'm now unindated with them. But I began yesterday to begin dealing with them & found that it was a nice relaxing change from the big projects I've just finished. Thanks for all your advice on how to deal with this & all the blocks we can make.
Scrap central here. I much prefer the little ones than actual yardage! It’s crazy but it’s like discovering old friends. I keep my scraps in a dresser by color and like you I cut them into strips and squares. Squares go in a little bin. I’m a big fan of piecing on phone book paper and love building scrappy strips and strings. Thanks for another great video!
L Friedman : Ah, phone book paper ... I remember seeing that suggestion a long time ago, but forgot about it. Thanks for the reminder. I assume you tear the paper off the back as in "paper piecing" before sewing your resulting "made" fabric together into blocks?
Hello, yes,yes I am interested in how to make an after quilt. I think that's what you call it. Can't wait. Awesome idea.
This video was a game changer for me since I took over my mother's stash which consisted of many scrap pieces. I cut the smaller, odd shaped pieces into 2.5" strips and 5 and 10 inch squares. Since then I made a scrappy log cabin quilt (which I love). I also had a HST pattern that used charm packs that I wanted to try first so I could have a practice quilt for my FMQ. I pulled all of my pieces from my 5" squares from my scraps and made a beautiful throw that helped me work out my FMQ for the one I was making for my son. It is a favorite now. Then I started making bowl cozies and have utilized many of my 10" squares. So THANK YOU for this great video.
i love making scrap quilts they are my favorites. Sorry to disagree with anyone about scraps you can never have to many of them.
Oh how I needed this right now! Mt Scrapmore is a great description. I have a 9 cube bookshelf system that holds all of my big scraps - anything less than 1/2 yard or random fat quarter. Then I have plastic shoeboxes for scraps that I've cut into 2.5", 3", 5", 6" squares and 2.5" strips. Finally, I also have a large tote bag of strings and small pieces for string quilts. This bag is also my grandkids favorite "toy" when they visit. They dump all the fabric in the family room floor and make "snow" angels and bury each other. 🤷♀️😆
We have a cloth bag set up for scraps as we do our charity quilts. When full we close it up and donate it to our local spca as a cat or dog bed.
What a great idea 😁
Dog beds have to be chew-resistant. Dogs tear open a lot of different kinds of fabrics, and scraps of all sorts pose a choking hazard, or if swallowed can get trapped in the gut and kill them (happened to my son's dog).
I make the bag the shape and size of a throw pillow with a quilt panel on the front.
Nice idea
I put scraps in a dollar store basket and these are for the grandkids to make stuff with. They know they can do whatever they want with them . Cut glue sew whatever. This keeps them from getting into my other fabrics and they love sewing and crafting with grandma.
Hello ! In the past I have made scrap blankets for family and even sold one ,I enjoy doing this it's like a stress relief from a long day 😀
I don't quilt, I only do a small amount of hand sewing from time to time. I am absolutely loving your channel. :)
Yes to AFTER QUILT VIDEO .... love your ideas ... I do cut 2.5 jellys out of left overs ... divided into light, mediums and darks....
You crack me up, Karen, I love your videos. 🥰💗🥰👍. Take care and God Bless, Chris-Raleigh NC
Love it! Mount scrapmore! I have so much scraps that I’m beginning to make little things, like book marks, coin purses, card wallets, crayon roll ups for my grandkids, anything that uses very small amounts of fabric.
im pretty new to sewing and quilting, and i made some potholders out of scraps. im also a long time knitter and crocheter so i had leftover yarn dating to projects from 25 years ago. i made a scrap yarn blanket for myself and now with some volunteers we are transforming the yarn and fabric into blankets and pillows for the foster centre we volunteer at. kids love colourful pillows and blankets!
That’s a great idea, an after quilt. I found an old tomato box filled with 2 1/2” strips. I made a lot of American Girl doll dresses in the 90s, my friend and I would do craft shows and sell them. I must have cut the strips from the leftover fabric from the dresses. I was going to give them away but I decided I would use them. I went through that entire box. I got 83 10.5” squares from the strips which made one crib quilt and five 50x70” quilt tops. One of the tops is made from the scraps of the leftover pieces from the previous 4 tops that were too short to get a full square so I cleaned them up and just sewed them all together.
This video spoke to me in every segment. I always buy more just in case I make a mistake. No, no, no, not anymore. I like the idea of having scrap block patterns at hand. It seems like I spend more time searching the internet for blocks I might like while my scrap pile does not decrease! And the backing idea is priceless, because you are right, I am so sick of the fabric I don't want to see it again, lol. Can't wait to watch the other videos.
An after quilt design video would be great! I try to do a back design with all of my quilts but then am challenged with a quilting pattern that showcases the front but doesn’t interfere with the reverse side design. Also talk about the challenge of taking it to a long arm quilter and having them center/ position the reverse side correctly. Learned my lesson of never having an outer border on the reverse side - too hard to align. Thank you for your fantastic videos - they are fun, fast, idea filled and balance creativity with practicality that a crafter needs so we don’t get overwhelmed!
I also love this idea. I go back and forth between cutting and organizing scraps or completely ignoring them.
Yes, please! I would like an after-quilt video! Love, love, love!
I cut scraps into long strips, and make coil baskets. RUclips tutorials showed me how to make them.
I cut 2 1/2 inch strips and organize them by color: ROYGBP, white(ish), grey, black, brown. I put spare jelly roll strips in those piles as well. I use them a lot, and sorting by color works for me. Smaller and odd shapes I put in bins by color. I make improv pieces with a color theme and keep those wip in the bins with the scraps of that color. I keep everything that is at least 1 x 1 inch.
Thank you for this useful, practical information. I'm binge watching all your videos - it's just what I needed. Hey - here's a scrap idea - make potholders and mug rugs, or pads for hot casserole dishes.
OOOOoooo. )))) HOt casserole dish pads! Better than a stack of napkins. )))
I love scraps and the creativity that comes from using them. It took me awhile to find “my” system. I kept trying to use other people’s systems but as a scrap quilter I don’t create the same way that a standard quilter might. I try to stay disciplined and trim my scraps after each project so my to be processed scrap bin isn’t too overflowing.
Hello from Queensland, Australia. As predominately an embroiderer, I often use fabric for finishing and presenting my embroidery projects . Once done, I'd never bothered about the left overs except to store them in my 'by colour' fabric drawers. I have a new reverence for my fabric scraps since I began using up my crumbs for quilting. I use the small rectangular food freezer boxes in each drawer of fabrics sorted by colour and a bonus one for Christmas. I only keep 1 box full for each colour and beside it I store smaller pieces that are ready to be crumbs (up to 12" square). Then if I'm ready for a small project I can go to the box or the larger piles beside the boxes. As I now sort and consider my scraps, I've used up lots of them. When I have time to make some crumb strips or blocks, I bring the fullest freezer box (or 2) to my machine and improvise. I'm finding it such fun. Thanks for the organising tips. Following them has helped a lot.
I bought the "Scrap therapy" book. In it she said about cutting your scraps into certain sizes. I have done that since. Just finished my first scrap quilt from the book.
Me, too! After about a year of cutting my scraps in the recommended sizes, I’ve made two bed size scrape quilts and still have lots more.
I love all these ideas! I think I'm going to tackle my scraps and stash in January. It is going to be a large "Mount Scrapmore" as I've been collecting for about 30 years! Ahhhhhh!
take it slow
I love all your ideas for using scraps and left over fabric. thank you for taking the time to show us. :))
To keep my scraps organised I have a selection of boxes - shoe boxes are excellent - labeled 'squares', 'triangles', 'rectangles', 'strips' etc. and the scraps are stored in the appropriate boxes. Makes finding the shape I want much quicker and easier! Like you I keep crumbs too!
I agree with all the other posts, please do an after quilt tutorial. Although, I must admit that by the time i finish piecing the top, all I want to do is finish the rest as soon as possible, in the easiest way possible. So I don’t know if I will have the patience to do more piecing for the back, although I love the look of a pieced back. Also, postcard tutorial, please. Also love the ideas for cutting the scraps into often used pieces. Our quilt store has someone who collects scraps to make dog beds for the local animal shelter. I collect all the scraps when I cut or trim, then bring in the bag to the store. I just did a major purge of my stash when I moved into a new space, so also donated larger scraps of fabric and blocks I couldn’t stand to look at anymore. Helped to reduce the stash, but I still have a very large bin full of scraps waiting to be cut down and organized. Oh well! Will get to it at some point.
I admit I often am too tried of the fabric to make an Afterquilt...and it's sits as a UFO until I get can my energy up again. And any commissioned quilts I also use a one piece back on.
Hi...I love you so much. It warms my heart that there is someone else out there that loves small scraps. Great tips thanks so much.
Love your videso! Once again I am inspired to run downstairs to my sewing room and cut up my scraps! Love your ideas and will get to work on this ASAP! I too have incorporated the leftovers into the backing of my quilts. When I give the quilt to the intended recipient it always surprises them to see the detailing on the backing.
Thank you for this video. I bought garbage bags of scraps at a garage sale years ago. I took all of the flannel scraps and cut them into 10", 5" , and 2.5"squares and 2.5 x 5" rectangles. While doing this all these ideas came to me on how to use them. Since they were mainly male plaid fabrics, the males in my family will be getting some awesome quilts.
Your scrap management and ironing techniques are very helpful for me. I never finger pressed before listening to you. I am a fairly new quilter. I want to learn more about scrap management as well as learning time management too in order to get projects completed!
I am besotted with QAYG scrap quilts made with strips. I have made quite a few including one for my son's custom made king bed - he is 6'6", and it was 2.5 by 2.7 metres! I am now getting ready to make one using up all my black and white fabrics for a friend in the States. I take my left over strips, roll up a bunch of them, anchor them with a pin and store them in a box until I need them. I also cut my scraps into sizes for a series of blocks and these are great for making charity quilts through my quilt group. Thanks so much for your inspiration Karen.
I would love to see a video on after quilt backings. Thank you for your wonderful videos, love watching them.
Wise advise. I am just making my 1st quilt after 35 years. Cut out and ready to sew tomorrow. Oh yes, I did the no no, bought extra fabric. Was working off a picture without a pattern. Didn't want to run out so yes have too much of some fabrics. However I am going to make pillow cases. Love this idea! There is nothing nicer than having shames or pillow cases that match ones quilt. When I am done I will be taking your wise advise and cut the scraps, "organizing by sizes" first. Thank you for your wonderful video Karen. So happy to have found you.
Darlene
Nova Scotia
Great Video, The ideas are genius and are well thought out. Thank you, hope to see an after quilt.
I have sorted all my fabric.....into several totes from the Thirty One company.
four totes are just FQs. one is for WOF pieces of various widths...
two are for single pieces and more than one of each fabric but not yardage.
They work best for me in my small house, and therefore small sewing space
Great video! When I make a quilt the left over material, if I’m lucky to get some, is made into a pillowcase or a pillow, a cosmetic bag of some sort, a tote bag and a small card that has all the samples of fabric in the quilt. The strip you take off to square up the fabric gets saved and then I crochet a stash bucket or bowl or ball. I almost have more fun playing with the leftovers than sewing the quilt. I also cut up 5” squares and 2 1/2” strips. Scrappy quilts are also my favourite cause I get to relive all the items I’ve sewed with the materials. Yup I’ve found my niche and still learning. Loved to see your video of afterquilts
With my scraps I sort them by general color family and style (meaning baby, Christmas, metallic, etc.) I then make HSTs in various sizes because i use them so often. I will now start incorporating long scraps into binding - THAT IS BRILLIANT ❣❣❣❣
I make scrap rolls using adding paper as a base. You have to find the non-heat sensative kind. When I get a couple rolls I use a solid color to put in strips between and make a quilt. Extras go on the back.
I have an Accuquilt Go machine so I cut my scraps into shapes and make charity quilts from the blocks. I've made 6 quilts so far from the tumbler shape. The smaller scraps I put in a bag marked "small quilt scraps" and take to the Good Will drop off. They recycle it into insulation and rugs and several other usable products.
I love watching your videos Karen. Using a quilt's leftovers for future bindings is a great idea. It sure is better than cutting it all up into smaller peices. 👍👍
For my parents 50th Ann quilt, I made a bag, with zipper & handle, for the quilt when being stored. I added another black & white photo on fabric on the front of the bag, for identification; works great!
I use to have what I call is my leftover bin but I have graduated to a bag, much smaller. I now keep it under control, in fact I just emptied my leftover bag on Monday. I then was always reverting to making crumb blocks. At one time I had over 375 crumb blocks. This time I had a number of strips so I did the 60 degree triangles and 6.5" 60 degree triangles. I ended up with 80 6.5" and 32 12.5". I will make the top/s then I need to clean & straighten out my fabric.
Very timely video for me. Just finished 2 quilts, my first projects and am surrounded by scraps. I wish I had known about an after quilt. I had a hard time finding a piece of fabric for the back. Your quilt backs are gorgeous. PLEASE do a tutorial. PS. It was your stash buster quilt tutorial that gave me the courage to get started ❤
I love this. Tutorial. You are a real scrap lady. Very enjoyable. Thank you. Lou
Yes!! I neeeeed to see an AfterQuilt Video! Right now I’ve no process for my scraps but after seeing this, I think I’m gonna try to implement some of what you suggested. Thank you!
I sort my scraps in bins with the following widths: 1½", 2", 2½", 3", 3½", 4", and 5". They can be any length or square. I use them frequently, and so far this system is working out very well.
Wish you were here to un scrap my stash, I have small and large plastic containers of scraps For which I have good intentions to use to make a scrap quilt but nothing ever gets done as I just add more scraps. I think your video is inspiring me to take an hour a week and sort my stash and start throwing away a bag a week of never to be used scraps. Thank you for this video. How many containers I am to embarrassed to count them. LOL 😂
Check with your library for quilters groups. They may be thrilled to have your left over leftovers. Church resales as well. I hunt there for more. ))))
I watched a video on back pack buddies "National Quilters Circle" (stuffed heart shaped with added hook) and ran with it. I made scrap key chains and scrap pot holders. I had so much fun! I had scraps from a quilt (hadn't heard of after quilt) so I turned them into lap robes and donated to a nursing home. I also made a scrap quilt from clothing construction, flannel. Being new to quilting, I had doubt to color so I saw a block where use a yellow pie shape on diagonal, just sew scraps on both sides, sew blocks to form stars 🤩, bound with yellow to tie it all together.
Thanks for this video, as always: An inspiration! And pleeeeease make this video on the after quilt for us! Regards from Germany ❤️
Hi! I am currently using up all scraps. So this was very timely for me. The last five quilts I take the time to log cabin up all the scraps from the currently finished top... so while my art work is at the long arm lady’s house, I make as many blocks as my scraps from that quilt will allow and bag them up. I just made 20 pot holders. I pass them out to neighbors, young wives and mothers, and even my kids!! Everyone is happy for a cheerful new something for their kitchen!! You have inspired me with your after quilt idea. ❤️
I sort by planned projects or by color for scraps. I only keep pieces 2" or larger. I typically cut into 2.5" strips, 5" squares or 10" squares (yes, I over buy). These are set aside until I need them. I use shoe box size plastic storage containers. I would love to see an after-quilt project.
I love the no guilt take on scrapping! I have been inspired now to begin a crumb quilt and yes go through all those scraps and create first, usable sizes. 2.5 " stips, 5" blocks, 10" blocks, fat quarters, 9" quarters. then crumb with the drops! Loving it!
I had too many scrap bits and it bothered me so I made a quilt from it and gave it to my mum who loves it. I must say it took me a few days to finish it because all the pieces weren't the same size and some smaller than others. It does take time to sew the bits together. Nevertheless it felt good that I was able to use the scraps to make something from it. Thank you for a great video. I so enjoy watching your videos.
With my scraps that are given to me I cut them up into different size of squares and put each size into a plastic shoe box. My tiniest squares is 2×2. The rest I just sew together to make a crazy quilt. I like your idea of how to use the scraps on here. You are so nice and have very good sewing skills
Great video. I’ve got to organize!
Would love a video on “after quilt” and your postcards, too !
Thanks a bunch.
My organization: From scraps I made fabric boxes, one of each common color. Larger scrap pieces go into the appropriate colored box. Within each box is a ziplock bag that holds small pieces. If a box starts to over flow I will spend some time to cut standard squares. I love using pieces for bags and boxes and purses and wallets and placemats and cards. Scraps are the quilting bonus! Thank you for sharing your expertise and experience. Your videos thoughtful and thorough.
I appreciate the advice about dont overbuy. Yup, good advice I could have done with 6 months ago. What you don’t mention is how the people selling fabrics always advise you to buy a bit extra just in case. As beginner I’ve ended up with so much extra because when I said to the lady I was a beginner so I’m not sure, she said I needed half a yard extra “just in case”. Fortunately I’m making masks with all these bits!!
Exactly!! I started saving my scraps in three small boxes--less than an inch (yes!), 1-3", and 3-4"--pieces are chosen by their longest dimension for the right box. When they are full, I sit and start sewing the 1-3" pieces t together in pairs, save them if I don't have time to do anything at the moment or show all the pairs together into fours and the fours into eights, etc until I get mini quilts the size approximately of a placemat, then I save that for other projects such as cutting into small 3"x6" blocks and surrounding them with white jelly roll strips and stack those blocks up for assembly into a quilt. One afternoon can really go through the scraps.
I love all your helpful tips and advice! Thanks for making another great video!
I would love to see an after quilt video! I find you videos condensed with lots of information and having to replay... can we slow it down a bit? I've benefited greatly from all you ideas ... thank you!
Anna from Manitoba
Anna Sipinski, you can slow the video down, there is a button on the bottom right of the screen for that.
@@joane8651
Thank you...yes one can... ! 😀
Oh thank you so much. I am a new quilter, less than 3 months, and I already have a pile of scraps. Now I know what to do with them. I love cutting fabric so this should be fun.
Yes, I would be interested in the after quilt. That seems like a very good idea.
I do many of the same things you do. I cut my scraps into 2 1/2 inch strips, 2 1/2 inch squares and 5 inch squares. I store them in plastic bins sorted by light and dark, bright and muted colours. I make a few scrap quilts for my guild's outreach program every year.
Love love love your videos! Would enjoy seeing the after quilt video too! Scrap blocks and scrap art quilts are the most enjoyable for me to make!
I am not a patch worker, I do clothing. Last winter, I spent folding all the fabrics onto foam board. Destashing at the same time. There's so much it ended up on cardboard. Then it was onto the notions, lace, elastic ,ribbon, you name it. I used some scrapbooking (vintage style)supplies to pretty it all up. They each go into 12litre plastic bins labeled. By the time I finished it was spring. Lol . I am new here, you have given me some great tips. Loved the vlog of lining the drawers, making dividers with a bin on top.its all about using the space better and being able to find it! I am blessed to have a whole room as my studio, it means I can walk off and leave it, come back and continue. It hasn't always been that way, I so appreciate it. Passion for fabrics has always been my thing. Keep up the good work, its all about sharing.
I do afterquilts too! To me it's easier than just doing a quilt back. I've worked so hard on the quilt top, why not make it kind of reversible? 💚
I have had resistance and refusal from longarmers to put afterquils on the back of a "nice quilt". They say it is too difficult to do. Any suggestions other than use different longarmers and learning how to longarm myself?
Best tip for dealing with the growing mountain of assorted scraps I am facing. I didn't know where to start, now I have a clear idea of what to do! Many thanks for that!
After quilt video would be great! In our area, scraps can be donated for making stuffing for dog beds at the local animal rescue.
That's awesome!!!!
We also do that here ! I keep a bag near my sewing machine and I collect all the threads and shreds which make soft pillows for the dogs and cats at the SPCA (shelter). Scraps of batting go into stuffed toys (also made from fabric scraps) to raise funds for the SPCA.
Dog beds have to be chew-resistant. Dogs tear open a lot of different kinds of fabrics, and scraps of all sorts pose a choking hazard, or if swallowed can get trapped in the gut and kill them (happened to my son's dog).
I loved your idea about using register tape to make consistent strips to use up scraps. Thank you.
Thanks for this video! I love your tip for making binding from squaring your quilts. There are so many ways to manage scraps that it becomes overwhelming so I'm looking forward to a future series on what to make with scraps.
I love watching your videos. As I was watching, I rolled my scraps up and put them in a cute box. I put a small pin in them to keep them together. Something to do when I'm bored🙂
Would love to see a video on an after quilt! Also information on the postcard quilt piece. Love your videos, they have been so helpful especially in color choices.
Remember junk journallers love small pieces of scrap fabric - so there is always someone willing to take small to tiny pieces. Love these practical solutions thank you.
Nice video! I also would like an after-quilt video. I manage scraps by cutting largest usable size and have a small box for string and crumb quilt improv.
Thank you for your great tips. My Husband I have had a country change and he has built me a lovely dedicated sewing room. Before we left I stripped out any fabric I felt I would not use, I am dealing it’s my stash and another copious one that belonged to a dear friend who passed away. I donated several 60 litre bins of fabric to charity groups I knew of as well as selecting bundles for 2 dear friends that I felt would be useful for them in their current projects.
After watching yours and other videos I am realising that each colour bin stored in our loft is loaded with scraps that I felt would b useful sizes for “something”. Over the 12 months we have been here I have taken fabrics down from these boxes, and I am in the process of stripping these down to useable sizes and also cutting 1/2” hexies for my Insanity Quilt. I am itching for my Husband to fix down my new bench tops today so that I can start some simple blocks that you have suggested in your latest video.
Thank you again.
Marianne Boot
Gayndah Queensland Australia
Great video. I agree with the others-please do a video on the after quilt.
After watching this video, I did a scarp management day on my AccuQuilt yesterday & cut all my scraps into jelly rolls. Now, I don’t feel so helpless with those darn scraps. Thank you😊
Can't wait for that after quilt video. I am short on backing for a quilt & have lots of fabric from the top left over & I need help.
I gave this a definite thumbs up, because I'm one of those people who can't pass the scraps up in the Goodwill store. I have so many, I don't know what to do with them ---- yet! But, thank you for the ideas to manage them.