After making a scrappy trip around the world quilt in 2013 and two scrap quilts this summer (my Nested Churn Dash quilt and my Jumping Jacks quilt), I thought a lot about how much I enjoy quilting with my scraps. Not only are scrap quilts easy to work on between other projects, but they also allow you to have fun again and again with bits and pieces of favorite fabrics.
This weekend I was able to finish up four more scrappy log cabin blocks, but as I dug through my scrap bins for fabrics I realized I needed to do some more “scrap organization.” Some of the fabrics are more suited for a couple of other scrap quilts I’m working on: my scrappy strings quilt, and my scrappy strings quilt with Fig Tree fabrics.
My scrappy strings quilts have kind of been neglected lately, but I plan to revisit them soon after finding more suitable fabrics.
I plan to take a little bit of time this week and work on filling two new containers: scrappy strings and Fig Tree strings. I’m going to define “strings” as pieces of fabric 1 ½″ and narrower. Strips larger than strings but narrower than 2 ½″ will go into my log cabin scrap container.
And I also realized that a postage stamp quilt or two is inevitable. I just can’t throw away perfectly good 1 ½″ squares. As I’ve tried to get better organized in the sewing room and especially in the sense of how I use my scraps I’ve come up with a list of ideas to help me get more of these projects finished up.
Tips for Scrap Quilts
- Choose a variety of scrap quilt projects so you can best utilize scrap fabrics.
- Organize specific scrap bins by project to make it easier to work on the projects at any given time.
- Use simple scrap sewing as “leaders and enders” for regular sewing. I’ve been using my postage stamp 9-patches and my scrappy log cabins as leaders and enders this week.
- Realize that it’s okay for scrap quilts to be longer works in progress. Don’t rush scrap quilting.
- Take time on a regular basis to organize and separate scraps into appropriate containers.
- Enjoy quilting with those scraps!
Thanks so much for stopping by…
Laura says
I keep intending to do a leaders and enders project of some kind, maybe a scrap quilt is the way to to do it?
Sarah @ FairyFace Designs says
Lovely tips. I have 3 big baskets overflowing with scraps, I really need to do some scrap projects again.
em's scrapbag says
I love scrap quilting. Your scrappy projects look so fun!
Lynn McIndoe says
I am so glad you said that scrap quilts can be longer term ones. I have a couple and feel guilty that they are only intermittently added to. I like to finish what I start, so your post is a good reminder to relax and just let them happen.
Susan says
Scrappy quilts are my favorite as evidenced by what I've made. 🙂 I've been finding myself drawn to scrappy log cabin quilts, and your blocks are very colorful and lovely. I really like them. I do need more low volume fabrics.
Billy'sgirl says
I've become very fond of the mini charms, but I can't imagine using 1 and 1/2 inch squares! Good for you!
Your scrappy quilts are lovely.
Tanya Quilts in CO says
Great tips for making scrap quilts! They are my favorite to make especially since it feels like they are free. Thanks for sharing!
whatknotgirls crafts says
I like the tips. Especially the two that it is ok to dedicate a bin for a scrap project, and that it is okay that scrap projects take longer. Thanks for sharing these. Beautiful log cabin blocks.
whatknotgirls at yahoo dot com
HollyBeth
kshackabq says
Sherri – Thank you for defining the size of "strings" vs. other strips. I was never quite clear about strings, but that helps a lot!
Debora Exum says
The challenge for me is keeping all those scraps organized. It is hard for me to part with the smallest piece of beautiful fabric. Thank you for the great tips.
Carla says
I know I know! Scraps are so very fun
mascanlon says
I have finally figured out that even scrap quilts need some planning. And I think for me the first step is cutting and then sorting…or sorting and cutting?
Julie says
For your little nine patch blocks for the postage stamp quilt, are you pressing your seams open? I started one, but am concerned as I arrange them, seams will not nest.
Rene' says
Great tips Sherri! I'm struggling with organizing my scraps at the moment so your post is extremely timely. Thanks!
gailss says
Love your tip on scrap fabrics and this is my weakest part of sewing…."The Scraps" Just so many and will have to get some small totes to start organizing. Whereto start???? any ideas!
anne Scott says
Your tips are great and I'm sure to use many of them. I think I'll include all of my batting scraps into this new organizational method, as I hate to waste anything.
Amanda Murphy says
Great tips and a beautiful string quilt too!
Libby says
Thank you for the tips !!!! Particularly as I am just contemplating starting my very first one as I have finally been quilting long enough to have some scraps 🙂 🙂
Needled Mom says
Scraps make the best quilts.
Susie Hoover says
Great tips, Sherri! I've just realized some of my own scrap organization and there you have it summed PLUS MORE!! Thanks!
Karen says
I really need to use my scraps. I love your log cabin blocks.
Kate says
I always end up with triangle off cuts from flying geese. On of these days they will become an HSTS scrap quilt…
KMSC says
Scraps are taking over my quilt room. Thanks for the tips!
AnnieQuilts says
Great tips! Sorting by project may be the method that works for me.