I would think at least 1" wide would be the narrowest (when sewn you would have a 1/2" wide strip) you would need to determine how you want to use them & decide the best width for your project. it seems like 2" would leave an awful lot of (non-salvage) fabric --- if you want your project to show the (salvage strip) measure that strip-then add 1/2" seam allowance.