Leftovers from making quilts?
 

What do you do with the scraps and /or pieces too big to be called scraps after finishing a quilt? I have 2 quilts that I made too many blocks for and have various size scraps leftover. I don't want to make 2 quilts alike but don't want to waste the leftovers.

If the pieces are that large, I would choose another pattern and add some other fabrics to the mix. I do a lot of charity quilts.

If you have enough leftovers, make another quilt. You could save up scraps until you get a greater selection and make another. I have lots of scraps and make quilts to donate.

Some people accumulate the extras as stash and use them to make scrappy quilts. Others prefer to give away all the scraps and buy fresh for the next quilt. I belong to the former camp, but sometimes I regret that choice, as those scraps can become burdensome. They take up space, they require some sort of organization, and they can make you feel guilty if you don't use them. On the other hand - well, they're fabric, aren't they? They make great quilts.

As for the extra blocks, you can always put them on the back of the quilt, with any of the matching scraps, so that the back has more interest.

Extra blocks can make nice co-ordinating runners or cushions or even hot pads. I have a box of 'orphan blocks'--extras and samples from when I have auditioned a block before committing to a whole quilt. Eventually they will all find homes.

When I have orphan blocks or leftover pieces from a quilt, sometimes I make a bag or a cat quilt. Lots of my friends have cats, and each has been really pleased with these small pet quilts. My cat likes them too. :)

But more often I just stack them in a basket and forget about them....thinking that someday I will use them. :)

Dina

I use mine for small projects: pot holders, placemats, table runners, etc.

I make a strip block and will eventually make a quilt of them and I'll have a memory quilt for me.

A very worthy organization called "Days for Girls" would be very glad of your larger scraps. There may be a group in your area. All the information is on their website.

The pieces can be added together to make a scrappy back, or the start of the next quilt! Perhaps smaller items too: runners, wall hangings, pot holders, etc. Or you can cut some of them and put in bins for your next scrappy quilt a la Bonnie Hunter style. (quiltville.com)