It's been awhile (hello 4+ years) since I've talked about what I do with all my fabric scraps. I've mentioned that I'm not a big scrap keeper. I don't save every little bit leftover from a project. I found that when I did I felt burdened by those scraps and always felt like I needed to do something with them. They sort of zapped me of all creative freedom.
However, each and every time I make a quilt I cut leftover fabric into 5" squares and 2 1/2" squares. Well, I only do the 2 1/2" squares if I have enough for at least four squares. Those 5" squares are a very handy size for little projects, applique, swapping with friends and such. Plus, I love a good scrappy patchwork quilt and 5" squares are perfect for that any day of the week.
I keep stacking up the 2 1/2" squares until I think I have enough to make a bunch of 9-patch blocks. (See why I make sure I have at least four squares of any one fabric? Four at least but five is best.) Sewing up these little 9-patch blocks is a snap and with a little sashing they make a great quilt.
The most treasured of favorite fabrics. All compiled together. Just like a greatest hits album.
I call these quilts "Greatest Hits."
-dana
Great idea, Dana! Like you, I don't keep every little piece...just what I consider usable. I really ought to follow your lead on this one. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteAwesome. I cut 2.5 squares and have been doing leaders and enders (when i remember!) but the nine patches are super cute!
ReplyDeleteTHAT is a fantastic idea kiddo!!! To precut into those three sizes and then if you need a quickie gift! Ack!! Why didn't you tell us this four years ago?:) xo
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way with too many bits laying around. I need to start pre-cutting scraps just like this so that I don't have mounds of bits every where. Wonderful idea Dana! :)
ReplyDeleteOh man I wish I was as on top of scraps like you! I have serious attachment issues with scraps because I make so many ticker tape quilts. I LOVE your idea of 9 patch blocks.
ReplyDeleteLove your little blocks. I am getting better at cutting up my scraps right away, it sure does make quick projects quick!
ReplyDeleteEverything is so pretty and straight! This does not happen for me. I'll have to post a pick of my ONE quilt top. OH MY....at least it is nice from a distance. ;)
ReplyDelete9 Patch and Pinwheel are my very favorite patterns...and scrappy my very favorite fabric selection...hand-in-glove :-)
ReplyDeleteI don't keep much in terms of scraps either. Love these little patches!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea. I've been pondering that since Girl just put all the scraps into color coordinated bins. Oh my word.
ReplyDeleteMakes me want to cut 2x2 squares, half square triangles, and maybe bigger blocks.
Blame the urge to organize the sewing room.
What great tips you give, pictures you share, quilts you create, and the laughter you share.
That's a great idea. I confess that I tend to keep every little scrap but I have been cutting 2" and 1 1/2" blocks for some time now and setting them aside. The larger ones I am using in a Postage Stamp quilt that I want to be REALLY scrappy, and the smaller ones I'm just not sure what they are for yet, but they will be there when I want them!
ReplyDeleteScrap management?!?!? I'm the queen of "tiny" scraps. LOL
ReplyDeleteSeriously though I love your scrappy quilt!
What a great idea! my scraps are a HUGE mess. Would love a bunch of same sized squares to tap into. :)
ReplyDeleteI admit I love scraps and yes I still have some of those wonderful ones you gave me at SS last year. I find I work from scraps more than yardage - got to get over that. I need to cut them up into squares and logs and make me some 9 patches and log cabins!
ReplyDeleteWEhat a great idea. I love the idea of keeping the scraps under control. And I really love the idea of a quilt with bits of all the fabric left overs. Greatest hits LOL Love it.
ReplyDeleteYou have the best ideas. Thanks for sharing
I started cutting leftovers into 2.5 inch squares just before Christmas; now I have a lovely container on my sewing table that makes me happy :)
ReplyDeleteAnd it has been way too long since I've visited your blog; love the new look!
I find scraps overwhelming too. I think I am going to follow your lead and start chopping them into squares.
ReplyDeleteI also find scraps overwhelming. My to-make-someday list is WAY TOO LONG and by adding the pressure of making something with all my scraps I get paralyzed. So, I cut scraps into 2 1/2" squares or strips and make scrappy 12" blocks with them that will make quite the scrap quilt some day. I work on them when I want to and make as many as I feel like and then I move on to that to-do list. Glad to know I'm not alone. :)
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