39 Simple Hand-Sewing Projects You Can Make with Fabric Scraps

These quick and easy hand-sewing projects are perfect for using up even the smallest bits of fabric. They make thoughtful gifts or personal keepsakes, too.

Over the years, I’ve collected a big basket full of fabric scraps, small bits and pieces that I just couldn’t bring myself to throw away.

Some of them are from my own sewing projects, others from things I’ve made with my kids. I’ve kept the fabric scraps tucked away in a cupboard where everyone in the family can easily access them.

They are ready to be used whenever inspiration strikes – sometimes for sewing tiny dolls, doll clothes, or other little handmade treasures.

With winter behind us and my knitting projects winding down, I recently found myself drawn back to sewing.

While I have a sewing machine, I often enjoy sewing by hand. It’s a slower, more mindful process that can be done anywhere.

I love taking small hand-sewing projects outside to the garden on the first warm, sunny days of spring or working on them while listening to my kids share their thoughts and stories.

It’s also perfect for comfy movie nights when I want to keep my hands busy.

Plus, hand-sewing small projects offers the satisfaction of finishing something quickly, without the risk of getting sidetracked, something that often happens to me with larger, more time-consuming projects.

👉 Five Most Important Basic Hand Sewing Stitches for Beginners

Using fabric scraps for hand-sewing projects isn’t just a great way to get creative, it’s also a sustainable choice. Repurposing leftover fabric helps reduce waste, turning what might otherwise be discarded into unique, handmade and beautiful items.

That’s why I’ve gathered a list of 39 ideas, for whenever I feel like making something, either by myself or together with the kids. Some of these ideas are links to tutorials with more detailed instructions. (and I might make more of them over time).

If you try any of the ideas or feel inspired to create something of your own, I’d love to hear about it in the comments! So here are 39 simple DIYs for any skill level. Happy Sewing!

Small and Practical Items

1. Fabric Bookmarks: Sew two rectangles of fabric together, optionally adding interfacing or cardboard for stiffness. Decorate with embroidery, applique and/or a small ribbon loop at the top.
2. Scrunchies: Use soft, stretchy fabric to make classic hair scrunchies. Simply sew a fabric tube, insert elastic, and stitch the ends closed. You can make all sorts of easy hair accessories (see some great projects in the next section).
3. Fabric-Covered Buttons: Use button-cover kits to turn fabric scraps into custom buttons. Great for adding an individual touch to clothing or crafts.
4. Needle Book: Make a small felt booklet with fabric covers to safely store your sewing needles. Add hand-stitched details for individuality.
5. Pin Cushion: Stitch together two small squares or circles of fabric, fill with stuffing, and sew closed. This is an easy sewing project for a child. You can decorate your pin cushion by adding a button, or by embroidering the center.
6. Coasters: Create square or round coasters using fabric scraps and batting. Try a patchwork design for extra character.
7. Lavender Sachets: Sew small fabric squares or hearts, fill them with dried lavender, and stitch them closed. Perfect for freshening up drawers or as gifts.
8. Reusable Dish Scrubbers: Sew small squares or circles of mesh fabric (like tulle) together with cotton scraps for an eco-friendly alternative to sponges. You can add a layer of rough fabric, such as burlap, for extra scrubbing power. I made a simple video showing the process over on my YouTube channel.

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Home and Decor

1. Stuffed Ornaments: Hand-sew fabric scraps into star, heart or animal shapes, stuff with filling, and add a loop for hanging, perfect for holiday decorations.
2. Patchwork Pillow Covers: Combine fabric squares into a patchwork front, add a solid fabric back, and hand-sew the edges to create a cozy pillow cover for your living room.
3. Mini Fabric Banners or Bunting: Cut fabric triangles or rectangles, stitch them onto a ribbon or string, and hang them for a cheerful decoration.
4. Mug Rugs: Larger than coasters but smaller than placemats, mug rugs are perfect for holding your tea or coffee and a snack. Quilt scraps together for a fun handmade look.
5. Fabric Bowl Covers: Sew reusable bowl covers with elastic edges. Great for covering leftovers or outdoor picnics.
6. Quilted Potholders: Use heat-resistant batting and fabric scraps to make practical potholders. Add a hanging loop for convenience.
7. Fabric Gift Wrap (Furoshiki): Use fabric scraps to make reusable fabric gift wraps, an eco-friendly and beautiful way to wrap presents. Hem the edges or leave them with a rustic frayed look.
8. Fabric Napkins: Sew simple cloth napkins from leftover cotton or linen fabric. These are great for reducing waste and adding charm to your dining table.
9. Bread or Produce Bags: Stitch lightweight cotton fabric into small drawstring bags for storing bread, fruits, or vegetables. This fabric scrap project is perfect for a zero-waste kitchen.
10. A Baby Blanket: This is a great addition to your list of sewing projects, especially if you have large pieces of fabric left over from previous projects. It’s an easy way to create something both practical and sentimental and a perfect gift for new parents. Simply sew together squares or strips of soft fabric, such as cotton or flannel, to create a patchwork-style blanket. For extra coziness, add a fleece or minky backing.

Fashion and Accessories

1. Hand-Sewn Fabric Patches: Cut fabric shapes and hand-stitch them onto jeans, jackets, or bags to repair or decorate your items.
2. Patchwork Tote Bag: Use fabric squares or strips to create a colourful tote bag. Line the inside with a sturdy fabric for durability.
3. Fabric Brooches or Pins: You only need a small amount of fabric to cut small fabric shapes, stitch them together, and attach a brooch pin to the back. Add buttons or embroidery for extra detail.
4. Hand-Sewn Fabric Cuffs or Bracelets: Make stylish cuffs by sewing fabric strips and adding button closures. Try patchwork or embroidered designs too.
5. Patchwork Coin Purse: Sew small fabric squares together, add a lining, and attach a zipper or snap closure to create a handy coin purse.
6. Keychain Charms: Sew tiny fabric shapes, stuff them lightly, and add a keyring loop, great for personalized gifts or bag charms.
7. Hand-Sewn Headbands: Use fabric scraps to make simple elastic or tie-on headbands, perfect for keeping hair out of the face. You could make a few in different colours.
8. Fabric Hair Bows or Clips: You can use smaller pieces of fabric to sew fabric bows or fabric flowers and attach them to hair clips or headbands for a nice handmade accessory.
9. Patchwork Scarf: Stitch together strips of lightweight fabric scraps to create a unique, boho-style scarf.
10. Fabric Phone or Glasses Case: Sew a soft pouch with padding to protect your phone or glasses, adding a button or snap closure for extra security.
11. Fabric Belt or Sash: Use longer fabric scraps and D rings to sew a stylish belt or make a sash.

Toys and Kids’ Crafts

1. Mini Stuffed Animals: Cut simple animal shapes from fabric scraps, sew around the edges, stuff lightly, and add embroidered eyes and details. This is a fun project for young kids and can be a great gift for their friends.
2. Fabric Doll Clothes: Use fabric scraps to sew tiny outfits for dolls, from dresses and skirts to hats and scarves. Perfect for kids who love imaginative play.
3. Soft Baby Blocks: Sew fabric squares together, stuff with soft filling, and add a bell or crinkle material inside for sensory play.
4. Finger Puppets: Create fun animal or character puppets by sewing two small felt shapes together and adding simple features with embroidery or fabric markers. You can make these in different sizes for every family member.
5. Bean Bags: Use a few scraps of fabric to make small square or animal-shaped bean bags filled with dried beans or rice. Great for tossing games and sensory play.
6. Fabric Memory Game: Cut small squares of fabric and sew two pieces together to create soft, reusable memory game tiles. Choose fabrics with different patterns to make matching fun.
7. Stuffed Fabric Shapes: Sew simple shapes like hearts, stars, or animals and stuff them lightly for little soft toys or decorations.
8. Dollhouse Accessories: You only need small fabric scraps to create tiny fabric pillows, blankets, and rugs for a dollhouse or play area.
9. Felt Play Food: Sew felt scraps into little fruits, vegetables, or treats for pretend play.
10. Soft Fabric Rings: Sew fabric tubes, stuff them, and close them into rings for babies to grasp and play with.

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Why Sew with Fabric Scraps?

Sewing with fabric scraps is a fantastic way to reduce waste and make the most of every little piece of fabric. Instead of throwing away leftover material from past projects, you can transform scraps into unique, decorative items and they don’t take a lot of time.

Not only does this save money, but it also encourages creativity, as working with limited materials often leads to fun and unexpected designs.

Plus, hand-sewing small projects is a relaxing and rewarding activity that you can do anywhere, whether you’re sitting in the garden, listening to a podcast, or spending quiet time with your kids.

👉How to Help Children Learn to Sew ~ Free Sewing Guide

Can You Use Fabric Scraps as Stuffing?

Yes! Fabric scraps can be a great eco-friendly alternative to store-bought stuffing.

Instead of using polyfill, simply cut or shred fabric scraps into small pieces and use them to fill items like pincushions, stuffed ornaments, and soft toys.

Keep in mind that different types of fabric will affect the texture of the stuffing: cotton scraps create a firmer fill, while softer fabrics like fleece or felt will result in a fluffier feel.

If you want a more even texture, mix fabric scraps with wool roving or natural cotton stuffing.

How to Store and Organize Fabric Scraps?

Keeping fabric scraps organized makes it easier to find what you need and stay inspired for future projects. I have to admit that I currently just keep them all stuffed in big baskets, but maybe some day I’ll organize them a bit better.

Here are a few storage ideas:

• Sort by size – Keep larger scraps folded and stacked, while smaller ones can be stored in jars or baskets.
• Sort by colour or fabric type – Grouping similar fabrics together makes it easier to find coordinating pieces.
• Use clear containers or labeled bins – Transparent storage allows you to quickly see what you have.
• Make a scrap basket accessible – Having a designated spot where you or your kids can grab scraps for spontaneous projects keeps creativity flowing.
• Pre-cut useful shapes – If you often sew appliqués, patches, or quilting projects, cutting common shapes in advance (squares, circles, strips) can save time later.

By keeping your scraps organized, you’ll always have the perfect piece on hand for your next hand-sewing project.

There’s something so satisfying about turning leftover fabric scraps into beautiful, practical or playful items. These quick, hand-sewn projects are perfect for beginner sewers and using up even the smallest bits of fabric.

Why not try one of these projects today? I’d love to see what you create. Feel free to share your finished projects or your favourite hand-sewing ideas in the comments!

And be sure to check back soon. I’ll be linking easy tutorials with step-by-step instructions for some of these projects in future posts.

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