Tips for Scrap Quilting Success

Scrap quilts on a bench and in a basket

Fabric scraps can be overwhelming and messy.  Causing quilters to throw them into bins and bags to hide the mess.  But this method hides what is possible, keeping them from creating the scrap quilts they have been dreaming of.  Instead try these tips for scrap quilting success.

Sorting Method

First have a method that works for you.  Bonnie Hunter cuts her scraps into useable sizes and stores them accordingly.  I hate cutting!  So this method doesn’t work for me.  I instead sort my scrap by color and size.  Scrap bins organized by colorSo that when I’m ready to play I can grab the bin that works best for my play.  Do I want a little improv?  I’ll grab my crumbs bin. Pillow, quilt and ornaments made from crumb fabric While if I’m feeling the need for some mindless sewing I’ll grab my strips and strings.  striped diamond baby quilt draped over wooden wagonKnowing what I have and where it is enables me to get to the fun of creating without the hassle of trying to find the pieces I need.

Color Plan

The next tip for scrap quilting success is to have a general plan.  What colors are you using?  Even in a scrap quilt you’ll want a general idea of your color pallet.  Just like you don’t throw the leftover cake into the clean out the fridge soup.  Quilters won’t want to throw all their scraps together willy-nilly.  Putting a little thought into this process will keep your scrap quilt from falling flat or looking like a quilt shop exploded.

Design Plan

In addition to your color plan, you will want a loose design plan.  Are you using one block in multiple colorways?Scrappy bear paw quilt hanging on a fence in a garden.  Or are you making a sampler? medallion style sampler quilt. Or are you wanting to play with a little free form piecing?  Scrap quilt made of wonky rose quilt blocks.Knowing where you are going with your quilt will help you decide what size scraps to pull.  Like I mentioned earlier in with my sorting method.

Moving Forward

Once you have a method and a plan in place, the scrappy mess stops being an obstacle and becomes a toy box of fun.  You’ll find yourself reaching for those bins with excitement instead of dread.  But if you’re still feeling a little stuck on how to start.  Let me help you stop hiding your scraps in the bin of shame.  Your fabric deserves a better life than being shoved into a dark corner.  Are you ready to turn the mountain of mess into a masterpiece?  Join me for a FREE Scrap Busting Workshop!  We’ll ditch the overwhelm and start the play.  Let’s unlock the potential hiding in your stash!

Click Here to Save Your Spot!