Use them as practice pieces for FMQ.

Since I love pieced backings, I incorporate them into the backing. I like it when it is a computer printed message, poem, or saying pertinent to the quilt and my mood or who the recipient is.

I would maybe make some sashing so they are closer to the same size then leave an empty space for a plainer fabric with the saying [or whatever] on it. You can do the horizontally [which I prefer] or even diagonally or vertically as you desire.

It is fun and helps get me out of my 'box.'

ali

Wow! Thanks for a great link. I hadn't seen her before. I'm a convert.

I save and buy all patterns/sizes of blocks ... and eventually make various
size tops by adding fabrics if needed so that all blocks end up one size,
usually 12" square. Then will take a coordinated fabric and do 3" sashings
around all blocks, plus a cornerstone, and an outer border. You might
call these Memory Quilts, as blocks come from many sources, and some of
my own "orphan" blocks from other projects.

I save them for the opportune moment. For instance, I posted some pics awhile back of a star block I made for a potholder - but it ended up being too large...so I added a couple borders, took apart a railfence top I had that was too small, slapped the star block in between and tada - a lapsized quilt that doesn't look too shabby.

The way I figure it, you never know when those extra blocks will come in handy. Maybe sort them according to color and eventually you'll have enough of the same color to make a little quilt. :)

Usually when I make a quilt, I have one or more blocks left over. I decorate my sewing area with them. Pink the edges, dip them in liquid starch, then sponge them onto your wall. When they dry, they stay on. Easy removal, too. Just remove the block, and wash the area with warm soapy water to remove the starch. I saw this once on HGTV many years ago.

What a grand idea. I love it.

There are animals in shelters who are not at all picky about colors or perfect points in our quilts. They appreciate the warmth of the blanket in a cold crate

You make a sampler quilt, every square is different. Or call them scrappy and give them to a shelter, they will be delighted to have your creation. Charity quilts are made and given with love and this is a good way to show it.

Carol J.

I'm with DebraK, I make a 'utility' quilt out of it, any quilt that turns out ugly goes and lives in a duvet cover, they tell me they're very happy there serving a higher purpose... something about beauty only being skin deep......