Sewing Projects For Leftover Fabric Squares

leftover fabric squares

One of the best ways to use leftover fabric pieces and fabric scraps is to cut them into small squares. From there, you have a variety of options for utilizing the fabric. Because of their uniform, geometric shape, fabric squares can be used to make a quilt, skirt, tablecloth, or bag. Choose fabric squares that are in the same color family if you would like to coordinate the fabrics, or choose a mix of different fabrics for a more eccentric look.

leftover fabric squares

Quilt

People typically use fabric squares to make quilts. You can make a quilt out of essentially any kind of fabric square, ranging from printed muslin fabrics to cotton t-shirts that have sentimental value for you. To make a quilt, gather many fabric squares, depending on how large you would like the quilt to be. Arrange them in a way that you like before you start sewing. Then use a sewing machine to attach all of the different fabric squares together to create one large quilt. If you would like, attach some muslin or other cotton fabric to the back of the quilt afterward, to make it sturdier.

leftover fabric squares

Skirt

To make a skirt out of fabric squares, start by attaching the fabric squares together. To sew a basic skirt, you need a piece of fabric that is at least 45 inches wide and approximately 2 yards long. In the case of this project, you will be creating this piece of fabric by sewing together the fabric squares. Once you have a large enough piece of fabric, follow a skirt sewing pattern to create the garment.

fabric squares

Tablecloth

Similar to a quilt, a tablecloth is a simple yet unexpected way to utilize fabric squares. Since you can use a combination of coordinating patterns and colors with the fabric squares, this kind of tablecloth is an effective way to brighten a space or match the décor that you already have. To make a tablecloth, first, measure the table that you would like to cover. Ensure that you sew it large enough that there will be at least a few inches of overhang on each side. Attach the fabric squares and line the tablecloth if you think it is necessary.

leftover fabric squares

Pillow

Pillows are fun and easy projects and a good way to use leftover fabric squares.  If you need some ideas about pillow and pillowcase patterns, please check out this huge roundup of designs and free patterns.

fabric squares

Bag

With a basic pattern, it is relatively simple and quick to make a cloth bag. For a more interesting cloth bag, you can create the fabric that you will use for the bag out of the fabric squares. Determine the fabric yardage that you will need based on the specifications of the pattern. Sew enough squares together to create that fabric yardage. Then attach the fabric to the sewing pattern to cut out the pieces to the correct size. Sew the body of the bag as well as the cloth handle, following the pattern as directed.

leftover fabric squares

I hope you do something fun with these simple projects for leftover fabric squares. Be sure to share your work and comment below.


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Demetria
Demetria

I fold my scrap fabric so they are the same size as a folded fat quarter then I organize them by color. So when I sew small things like drink coasters I use the scrap fabric before I cut into the full yard fabric I have.

Sandy
Sandy

I hate throwing any leftover fabric out, and always trying to use every last bit. What are ideal sizes to cut the squares? I’m not a quilter, so don’t know what the most common used size square would be.

Pamela
Pamela
Reply to  Sandy

I’m not a quilter either, but I love to find new ways to use up scraps. I usually cut them no smaller than 4″ x 4″ and prefer larger if possible, because I generally sew clothing, totes, purses, simple table runners, place mats, etc.

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Geralda
Geralda

Thanks very much for these bright ideas. very good gifts ideas
One suggestion : when sharing patterns , for dressmaking, would it be possible to include in centimetres, too, please. I’m used to centimeters& metres. and I’m sure there may be sewists using that too.

Rose66
Rose66
Reply to  Geralda

request for metric seconded!

Lathie Mckinney
Lathie Mckinney

Love the ideas. Always hate to throw away scraps.

Aless
Aless

Thanks for the ideas! I had never seen the one about using squares set on the diagonal for a young girl’s dress/pinafore- love it!!
So far, I ‘only’ have a 12 week old grandson ( <3 ), but hope for a grand-daughter later…. 🙂 If that doesn't happen, I am keen to do charity sewing for children, so will use your idea.

ANNE GLENSHERRILL
ANNE GLENSHERRILL

You can always do what my mother did; she took old clothes and scraps of fabric and tore them in to narrow strips, 1/2 inch or so, then while variegating the colors, she tied the strips end to end and then crocheted or knitted them in to round, oval, square, or rectangular rugs. They made incredibly strong, beautiful rugs that wear forever and launder well if not terribly huge. If they are very large you may need to take them to the laundromat to wash them in a commercial machine. I still use some of her rugs that she made over 50 years ago.

Sandi
Sandi

I am teaching 4 girls to sew. Fortunately I have a machine for each of them. I as able to find used machines at thrift stores, repair them and have one for each. We have made pillows, dog bandannas, catnip bags, worked with a pattern to make matching nightgowns. The pattern was challenging but we make them. It is fun to teach them they enjoy it so much. Some people call me with extra fabric they would like to give us for our next “sewing day”. They all know the basics of threading the machines, winding the bobbin somewhat adjusting the tension. 2 of the girls are my granddaughters, 1 is a great niece the other is a friend of my great niece Thank you for so many free ideas, much appreciated.

Diane
Diane

Great ideas. I am always sewing my squares together for future quilts and household projects but never thought about garments. Thanks!

Joann Eidhoff
Joann Eidhoff

Wonderful ideas…my scrapbook is overflowing. This might help damm up the flood.

Miriam Hilario
Miriam Hilario

I would love to receive free patterns and tips on sewing. Grandaughter wants me to teach her how to sew.

Pat Bennett
Pat Bennett

I love those ideas! Thank you for all your inspiring ideas.