15 Scrap Sewing Projects You Can Make in a Weekend (Step by Step DIY)
Why Scrap Sewing Projects Are So Addictive
Here’s the truth: you don’t need yards of fabric or fancy tools to make something beautiful. The best scrap sewing projects come from those tiny fabric leftovers hiding in your drawer. With a needle, thread, and some creativity, you can transform scrap fabric projects into chic accessories, home décor, or thoughtful gifts. The trick? Stick to small sewing projects that are quick, easy, and fun. These easy sewing crafts are perfect for a weekend session — no stress, just pure joy.
1) Fabric Bookmarks
Even the tiniest scraps can become a stylish bookmark. Add a ribbon or button, and suddenly it looks like a boutique piece.
Step by Step: Cut two fabric rectangles (about 2×7 in / 5×18 cm) and one piece of interfacing the same size. Fuse the interfacing to the back of one rectangle. Place fabrics right sides together, sew around, leaving a 2 in gap. Turn right side out, press with an iron, and close the gap with an invisible stitch. Topstitch 1/8 in around the edge. Optional: add a ribbon or tassel at the top.
2) Quilted Coasters
Think of them as mini quilts that make your coffee table chic and colorful.
Step by Step: Sew scrap squares into a patchwork top (around 4×4 in). Cut batting and backing fabric the same size. Layer: patchwork top, batting, backing. Quilt in straight or zig-zag lines. Finish with binding OR sew right sides together, turn, and topstitch. Repeat for a set of 4–6 (perfect for gifting).
3) Fabric Bows
The influencer hack for turning gifts and hairstyles into something styled? Fabric bows.
Step by Step: Cut one rectangle (8×4 in / 20×10 cm) and one small strip (2×1 in / 6×3 cm). Fold the rectangle in half, sew the long side, and turn right side out. Fold into a bow shape and cinch the center with thread. Wrap the small strip around the middle and stitch at the back. Attach to hair clips, headbands, or gifts.
4) Scrappy Keychains
Cute, functional, and one of those little sewing projects everyone asks about.
Step by Step: Draw a simple shape (heart, star, circle ~3 in). Cut two fabric pieces in that shape. Place right sides together, sew around, leaving a 1 in opening. Turn right side out, lightly stuff with polyfill. Add a small tab with a keyring and stitch the opening closed.
5) Patchwork Tote Bag
This is how you turn random scraps into something fashion-forward. Every square tells a story.
Step by Step: Sew scrap squares or strips together until you have a panel large enough for a bag front and back. Cut lining fabric in the same size. Place right sides together, sew sides and bottom. Add straps (made from long folded strips or cotton webbing). Finish the top edge with binding or a folded hem.
6) Fabric Cup Cozies
Reusable, eco-friendly, and adorable — the perfect easy sewing craft.
Step by Step: Trace a coffee cup sleeve onto paper to make a template. Cut two fabric pieces and one batting piece. Layer fabric + batting + fabric, right sides out. Sew around the edges, leaving a gap, then turn and topstitch. Add Velcro or a button closure.
7) Coin Pouches
Tiny projects that prove small sewing projects can be both practical and stylish.
Step by Step: Cut two fabric circles or squares. Insert a zipper along one side between the layers. Sew around the remaining edges, leaving a gap. Turn right side out and topstitch to finish. Optional: add a wrist strap with a scrap strip.
8) Hair Scrunchies
Classic, quick, and perfect for using long narrow scraps.
Step by Step: Cut a strip 18×4 in (45×10 cm). Fold lengthwise, right sides together, sew the long edge. Turn right side out, insert 7–8 in elastic. Stitch elastic ends together. Close the fabric opening with an invisible stitch.
9) Fabric Gift Bags
Reusable, sustainable, and way cuter than paper bags.
Step by Step: Cut two rectangles of fabric (size depends on gift). Sew the sides and bottom, right sides together. Fold and stitch a hem at the top. Thread a ribbon or cord through as a drawstring.
10) Needle Case
Organize your sewing needles in style — a perfect scrap fabric project.
Step by Step: Cut two rectangles of fabric and one batting piece. Layer fabrics right sides together with batting on top. Sew around, leaving a gap, then turn right side out. Add felt or flannel inside as “pages” for needles. Topstitch edges and add a ribbon tie.
11) Fabric Bunting
Turn scraps into festive décor for parties, kids’ rooms, or even your craft space.
Step by Step: Cut triangles of various fabrics. Sew two triangles right sides together, turn, and press. Insert triangles into a strip of bias tape and stitch. Repeat until you have a long garland.
12) Laptop or Tablet Sleeve
Patchwork never looked so modern.
Step by Step: Sew scraps into a panel large enough for your device. Cut lining fabric the same size. Sew the front, back, and lining together, leaving the top open. Add padding (optional). Finish with a zipper, button, or Velcro.
13) Lavender Sachets
A cozy, fragrant way to use tiny scraps.
Step by Step: Cut two fabric squares (3×3 in). Sew around, right sides together, leaving a gap. Turn, press, and fill with dried lavender or stuffing. Stitch the opening closed.
14) Fabric Headbands
A quick easy sewing idea for everyday wear.
Step by Step: Cut a strip of fabric (18×5 in). Fold lengthwise, sew, and turn right side out. Insert elastic at one end and sew in place. Attach the other end to the elastic.
15) Padded Pin Cushion
Every sewer needs one — why not make it from scraps?
Step by Step: Cut two fabric squares (4×4 in). Place right sides together, sew around, leaving a gap. Turn and stuff firmly with fiberfill or scrap fabric pieces. Stitch closed and add decorative buttons on top.
Final Thoughts
See? Scrap sewing projects don’t have to be complicated. From small sewing projects like keychains and sachets to slightly bigger scrap fabric projects like tote bags or sleeves, these easy sewing ideas show that leftovers can become something beautiful and useful. The best part? Each project takes just a weekend — and you’ll actually enjoy the process.