scraps....Scraps.....SCRAPS....
 

I need help. I have tons and tons of scraps. HOW do I begin to sort/cut them? Do you try to cut them into as big as squares as possible and work your way down? What about the strips 2 1/2" long...do I keep them separate or cut them down also? What would be a good size to cut them into? I am so overwhelmed with scraps....I've been saving for over 3 years AND I would sincerely appreciate any advice from any of you quilter expertise people.

Look at www.quiltville.com. She has lots of great ideas for sorting scraps, and lots of scrappy patterns for free~~ :)

It can be daunting to try to tame all the scraps at once. It might help if you select a pattern that you want to make with your scraps, and start to cut the shapes that will be needed for that pattern. That way you will have a goal in mind and after a lot of the scraps are cut you can alternate sewing with cutting, and won't get so bored or overwhelmed.

I just quickly sorted through mine and bagged up the ones I was tired of or bored with and took them to my guild. I'm now more excited to get into those bins. I now need to cut them up into strips and squares.

There are the Scrap Therapy books, too. There are suggested sizes in there.

Hugs,
Charlotte

I found I created a monster when I started cutting them up and more pressure to quilt them. From now on I'm am leaving my scraps alone til I need them..
on the other hand, it is nice to have that head start when you need a quick quilt!

on Bonnie's blog today she just posted how she stores her scraps. I don't think I would sort my strips by color because I don't have as many as she does but I am going to put them in bags of darks, lights, and white/beige neutrals. It was a really good read http://quiltville.blogspot.com/ she is so inspiring

I never cut my scraps till I decide on a project. I know many cut into specific sizes , but just when they are all cut , a pattern with a size different from the pre- cut scraps will present itself.

Do develop a system , by color, or type it will help when the right project presents itself.

There are those who just aren't scrappy quilt makers ,if that is you.... free yourself of this burden, and donate them or offer them here in the donation section.

I never cut my scraps until I am ready to use them.

I make comfort quilts for different charities. I have a couple of "go-to" type patterns that I cut my scraps for. I use 6.5" and 5" squares and rectangles a lot, plus strips. If you don't have an idea for a quilt, you may want to hold off on cutting until you have a plan. I have also used my small scraps as stuffing for pillows when I get tired of looking at them.