What is the smallest size fabric scrap worth keeping?
#1
Power Poster
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Western Wisconsin
Posts: 12,930
Even if it's just to donate to someone else?
I am grappling with this now that I have the use of an Accuquilt Go! The scraps might be just one inch wide tapering six inches down to nothing. Should I keep scraps that small? I know that some people might use them to stuff pincushions, or use them for fusing snippet landscapes, but that's definitely not me. I'm a larger scrap sort of person; about 3 inches in every direction is probably my smallest useable size.
What I am wondering is if I should be saving the smaller scraps for someone else who might be able to use them. Is this worthwhile? If so, how do I find these people. If not, should I be throwing the scraps in the garbage or into recycling for Goodwill (I assume to be made into paper)?
I read years ago that we should not put fabric scraps out for birds nests because fabric doesn't dry out fast enough after a rain, endangering baby birds in the nest. So, that option is out for me.
I am grappling with this now that I have the use of an Accuquilt Go! The scraps might be just one inch wide tapering six inches down to nothing. Should I keep scraps that small? I know that some people might use them to stuff pincushions, or use them for fusing snippet landscapes, but that's definitely not me. I'm a larger scrap sort of person; about 3 inches in every direction is probably my smallest useable size.
What I am wondering is if I should be saving the smaller scraps for someone else who might be able to use them. Is this worthwhile? If so, how do I find these people. If not, should I be throwing the scraps in the garbage or into recycling for Goodwill (I assume to be made into paper)?
I read years ago that we should not put fabric scraps out for birds nests because fabric doesn't dry out fast enough after a rain, endangering baby birds in the nest. So, that option is out for me.
#2
I'm making a postage stamp quilt, where the squares measure 2cm finished. (because I couldn't get any 1 inch graph paper at the time I started iit) I use one and a quarter inch squares of fabric, so sit and trim my scraps to that size, then I still find it difficult to throw away what is left!
#4
Power Poster
Join Date: Mar 2009
Posts: 15,639
blueribbontoes is collecting scraps in all colors for an extensive hexagon quilt. Her size is 3/4" to 1"
When I have scraps, I kind of decide by intuition and by how much fabric I have left when all is cut. The less fabric I have left, and the more I like the color, the smaller the scraps.
I have a "scrap bin" - a tall Rubbermaid tub, that all my small odd cuts go in. As I read about people needing a certain color, I rummage through the stash to see if I can share.
When I have scraps, I kind of decide by intuition and by how much fabric I have left when all is cut. The less fabric I have left, and the more I like the color, the smaller the scraps.
I have a "scrap bin" - a tall Rubbermaid tub, that all my small odd cuts go in. As I read about people needing a certain color, I rummage through the stash to see if I can share.
#5
I keep a basket for the bigger scraps. When full, I use the Go cutter to make 2 in. hexagons or triangles or squares. The strips of scraps I do end up with after that I toss. I don't feel guilty tossing my scraps.
#6
I work with tiny pieces all the time. I love to do scrappy quilts. My latest project has been making a crumb quilt. I'm figuring next year I'll be making alot more scrap quilts as money will be a tiny bit tighter as I will be on maternity leave next Spring. lol I have two big, and two small rubber maid containers filled with scrap fabrics for future projects.
#7
Originally Posted by Prism99
I read years ago that we should not put fabric scraps out for birds nests because fabric doesn't dry out fast enough after a rain, endangering baby birds in the nest. So, that option is out for me.
#8
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Minnesota
Posts: 1,097
I cut strips from my odd shaped remnants. I have a couple large totes of 1 1/2" strips and three of 2" strips. I like to go through them and make quilts just from that stash. Last year I made a series of baby quilts, wall quilts and tablerunners - I made 9 things from 1 1/2" strips before I got tired of it.
The strips might only be 4 or 5" long, but since they are in the appropriate tote, I use them all.
The strips might only be 4 or 5" long, but since they are in the appropriate tote, I use them all.
#10
Super Member
Join Date: May 2008
Location: IN
Posts: 1,807
I save just about everything and pass on the smallest scraps to people who will use them. I prefer 2 inch and larger pieces....but I've not yet started applique LOL.
Someone can always use them. I donate what I can't use to a local non-profit agency.
Someone can always use them. I donate what I can't use to a local non-profit agency.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
bearisgray
Main
49
05-05-2010 06:32 AM