When you're a seamstress, whether you're a beginner or very experienced, you quickly notice that fabric scraps accumulate and pile up very, very quickly…
And it's often only once we've accumulated a good pile of them that we wonder what to do with them…
Should we throw them away? Give them away? Or perhaps repurpose them? But how do we come up with a good idea? A thousand and one questions can cross our minds!
And guess what? To make things easier for you, today we're sharing our best ideas for using up your fabric scraps !
We're showcasing 6 upcycling techniques! And you can even find some patterns and video tutorials to make them yourself! Not only is it great for the planet, but it's also a super cool way to unleash your creativity!
So, grab your sewing machine and let us guide you through these various projects!
Project #1: Use your fabric scraps to make a scrunchie:
The scrunchie is a trendy, retro hair accessory that can be made in no time, with just one small piece of fabric! Choose colors and patterns that match your style or create one to give as a gift to your loved ones.
It's a simple and fun idea for recycling them!
To make this cute DIY scrunchie, all you need is a 12cm elastic band, a 50cm x 12cm piece of fabric, and your sewing machine! You can find one of our tutorials for making it right here .
Project #2: Upcycling fabric scraps into makeup remover wipes:
The second sewing project we're sharing with you, again with the aim of making use of your fabric scraps, is to make makeup remover wipes!
These small wipes are very practical; you'll use them every day. Depending on how you use them, you can choose the size and shape you want.
And in addition to being useful, what's great is that by creating and using them, you're doing a very good deed for the planet:
• Your fabric scraps are recycled and not thrown away
• You avoid using disposable and single-use cotton pads.
For this project, you will just need fabric scraps and a terry cloth with a minimum diameter of 12 cm.
Project #3: Making small upcycled hearts:
Another way to recycle your fabric scraps is to make little stuffed hearts! They're super quick to make and don't require buying any new materials; you probably already have everything you need at home!
You can use them as keychains, as air fresheners, or simply as decorative items. They also make a lovely gift.
And to do it, you can follow our video tutorial right here .
Project #4: Reusing fabric scraps by creating patchwork quilts:
Why not reuse all your fabric scraps to create a unique garment? To do this, you can use two creative techniques: creating a yoke on a pattern and patchwork.
Patchwork involves assembling small pieces of fabric to create a pattern or design. You can create a patchwork quilt on a jacket, skirt, handbag, or even a cushion. Choose fabric scraps in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures, and let your creativity flow. You can use a patchwork pattern, such as our Jeanne vest , to cut and assemble the pieces and create a unique garment that's sure to turn heads. Plus, it's incredibly trendy, because patchwork is back in style!
The added bonus: incorporate your creation into one of your favorite patterns, adapting it and creating a yoke. This is an ideal option that can be adjusted according to the size and amount of fabric scraps you have. Plus, it allows you to add colored or textured yokes to give it a personal touch.
For example, you could sew leather patches onto a denim jacket for a trendy and original look. With a sewing pattern that includes instructions for patches, you can easily incorporate this technique into your project.
The advantage of creating a garment using patchwork or panels is that each piece you make becomes truly unique .
At Maéli, upcycling is our main mission; our patterns are designed for repurposing and include various inserts allowing you to use your best scraps.
Project #5: Use your scraps to make a nice sweatshirt:
At Maéli, we've come up with the perfect pattern for using up your best fabric scraps : the Simone sweatshirt . Thanks to its numerous panels—sleeves, pockets, upper back, and pocket flaps—which don't require a lot of fabric, you can easily play with textures and colors.
There are a thousand and one possible variations! You can opt for a mix of bright and floral colors for a vibrant sweatshirt or more pastel shades for a more versatile sweatshirt!
This is a piece that will surely become one of your favorites in your wardrobe, an essential item.
The Simone sweatshirt pattern is suitable for beginners (although some prior sewing experience is necessary, of course ;)). An instruction booklet and a video tutorial are available to guide you through the creation of this unique garment.
Project #6: Another alternative to avoid throwing away your fabric scraps:
Finally, if you don't have the time or motivation to reuse your fabric scraps, it is also possible to donate them to suitable organizations .
In France, there are many associations and organizations that collect textiles, sort them, and recycle them. Here is a map with all the collection points where you can drop off your unwanted fabrics and clothing. One small point to note, however: a piece of fabric must be a minimum size to be usable. Sorting centers, such as Le Relais, require that it measure at least 30 cm x 30 cm.
The most efficient way is to contact your local recycling center that handles collection. This will allow you to get the information very quickly.
Conclusion
We've suggested a few simple projects to help you move towards a zero-waste goal and reuse your fabric scraps. You can easily create fashion accessories, spruce up your clothes, or even create a statement piece for your wardrobe.
By following one of these initiatives, you'll give a second life to small fabric remnants, just waiting to be repurposed and continue their journey with you. It's a creative and eco-friendly way to reduce textile waste and preserve our resources. Plus, it can also be a fantastic, unique, and personalized gift idea.
Don't hesitate to share your creations on our Instagram account using the hashtag #MaeliParis and let us know what you think of these ideas! And if you're looking for more inspiration, you'll find other tutorials there too! We can't wait to see your sewing projects!
