retrogirl02

I've been keeping my selvages for the past decade or so because it used to really upset me to throw away fabric of any kind. I tend to cut the last inch or so of the fabric on the labeled side and much closer to the second side. I use the second side for tying things but the labeled side is pretty to me and perfect for some projects.

I keep the regular labeled ones sorted by color in a clear hanging shoe organizer and the special ones (30s all together, Modern designers Aneela Hoey & Heather Ross) sorted by color clear plastic bins.

So far, I've done mostly small projects like the pinkeeps/needle cases and pincushion below. I've made some selvage squares but have not made a whole top yet. I have friends who have made string quilts with them.

The old thread and tutorial can be found here: Selvage Squares Tutorial

What do you use them for?

Tartan

I sometimes use selvages as string to tie things up.

tranum

Me too. Tying up plants & paper bundles for recycle are two things that come to mind.

ruthrings

A dear person on this board made me a wonderful tote bag and a mug rug of selvages. She inspired me so I then made those, as well as a lap quilt, cosmetic bags, thread catchers (little bags attached to good size pin cushions) water bottle carriers, and gadget holders. By the latter I mean, I stitched the selvages together until I had the equivalent of a quarter yard or so of fabric. I then wrapped that around containers like plastic coffee cans, etc. I attached several pockets for holding scissors, and other tools. A plain lining went inside to use as scrap catchers. I have not figured out how to post pictures since this website changed. But you can also Google lots of ideas.

Watson58

The jacket in my profile photo is made from selvages. It was a fun project. I had saved them for about 4 yrs or so.

granky

Watson...love the jacket! Wouldn't have thought of using selvages like that....

SusieQOH

I am saving some for a bookcase quilt or at least a couple of "books" to put in a quilt. I sent some to someone on the board awhile ago as she saves them.

QuiltnNan

I save mine, but not sure what i'll make with them

juliasb

I have been saving salvages now for only a short time and trying to be sure I leave enough to sew with when I am ready to make something. Not yet though. I love the examples you have shared and I love the shoe carrier as a way to store them. Thanks for sharing.

glasqlts

I use mine to crochet rugs.