what to do with scraps
 

I have been quilting for just a little over a year now and I cannot believe the large box of left over material that I have accumulated. Does anyone really use left overs to make quilts? Do you cut strips or 5" blocks? I don't know where to start - any hints will be greatlty appreciated.
Thanks
NormaBeth

do a search for 'scrap therapy' there are tutorials for (organizing) your scraps into usable pieces- also there are TONS of books on scrap quilts-
many many people use scraps---all the time---some people do not care for scrap quilts and choose to pass on their scraps to others- there are a number of groups who love and put to good use other's scraps (such as the senior center) there are small sewing groups of people who do not have much money- but have a desire to learn- who also appreciate donations- and scout & 4-H groups.
start with looking at scrap quilt books/patterns and decide if you are interested- then check out the scrap therapy tutorials- which show you how to cut and organize your scraps- if you decide you have no interest (or need) of all your scraps-pass them on :)

Think outside the box, er block. Scrap quilt, applique, confetti. I don't cut fabric until I know exactly what I will do with it. And the possibilities are endless. Happy quilting.

I cut mine into 5" squares, 10" squares and 2 1/2" strips. These are the common pre-cut sizes and You can find lots of patterns that use them.

I usually do mine in approximately those sizes as well.

This is what I do too, anything that isn't big enough I cut into 2 1/2" squares with my Accuquilt. I really going through the scraps, brings back memories of the projects.

There are a lot of beautiul patterns that require small pieces of lots of different fabrics. Here is one of my DH's. he loves just sewing 2 1/2 inch blocks together. I like simple, yet complicated looking patterns.[ATTACH=CONFIG]300970[/ATTACH]

Almost all my quilts are scrappy, a log cabin is a great pattern to use them on.

I just bought a book on Scrap Therapy and it sugests 5", 3 1/2", and 2" squares. Has some very pretty patterns in it using these sizes. Been working on that. Little teeny peices I put in a plastic bag and save for stuffing toys etc. I have just cut a big square denim pillow for my cats and I'm using these scraps to fill it. Waste not want not as they say!

Bonnie Hunter specializes in scrap quilting. She has a few books and lots of free patterns on her website. You will no doubt find something inspirational there!

http://quiltville.blogspot.com/p/free-patterns.html