i don't really throw anything in the actual trash except slivers- frayed edges, tiny trims...if it is anything (usable-an 1" or more in any shape)
it goes into donation boxes.
i keep a couple baskets under the cutting table- and a stand close by with a drawer-
colorful little pieces-go in the drawer- for my granddaughter's to play in when they visit- other scraps go into the baskets- when the baskets are overflowing i check to see just what most of the scraps are- then look to see who it asking for scraps-
or they go to the public school art department- or the pre-school=
always groups of kids who need project materials.