SCRAP Quilting Like a Boss - My Top Organizing Secrets Revealed!

[@mariejohns1387]

I live for scraps!! And yes I use them all but not before they multiply lol. I recently learned a new trick that might help add to your cutting process. All you need are some big zip lock bags and a pattern. Take that pattern and cut what you need to make that quilt. Voila…. You just made your own quilt kit!! Super effective for busting that stash!! I also add the birders and binding so its all together most of the time.

[@amydement.]

That is awesome! I love this. Thank you!

[@jo-annevandermey2704]

Great idea!

[@pennysmith7936]

Thanks

[@krisvanallen]

Good idea! I kit up my sock knitting, so now need to start with fabric!

[@TheRozylass]

I came to quilting from garment sewing so I began with scraps from that. My first quilt was one for my daughter who asked for a pink and purple quilt. I pulled out all the scraps in those colors and set to work making a nine-patch for her. Most of the pieces had memories attached and that's what makes scrap quilting so fun to me. Before the 1970's most home-made clothing was made from cotton (or wool in the winter) so scraps made wonderful quilts. I still go into quilt shops and look at the fabric and think "Oh, that would make a gorgeous dress or blouse." I process scraps similar to you, by color, and in pre-cut sizes. I'm amazed at that ruler you use, wow! That is like magic. I'd like to get one of those. Thanks for sharing, I love learning new things. I live in a tiny rural town and haven't found an active quilt group near me, so I consider my KZbin "friends" my quilt group. Keep up the great work.

[@amydement.]

Thank you so much for watching and sharing. And yes, we are totally your quilty group!

[@laurienorton7422]

I also have looked at quilting fabric in terms of garments.

[@rachelburgener819]

Ohhhh ya I’m right there tooo 😝🥰❤️😀

[@patriciaburt1772]

Llll

[@tsunamis82]

Put an ad in a local shop. There maybe others that feel like you. Call it a drop in, bring your own lunch and offer to teach basic patchwork.

[@jeaniemichaels8281]

I use nothing but scraps. I get friends' leftovers, mix them all up, then try to make some sense out of them. I make quilts for charities, bunting, santa sacks and so on. Some scraps are as large as fat quarters but I have made several crumb quilts. It's very satisfying knowing that I am saving fabrics from landfill, making useful and beautiful projects, and giving myself hours of gainful occupation.

[@amydement.]

Is t it the best!? Thanks for watching and sharing.

[@judydomke7175]

Morning coffee with Amy!! I just told hubby I will be in my sewing room all day. I'm all set for a morning of cutting, sewing 1 block, attaching a binding and possibly cutting again. How satisfying is the sound of that rotary cutter thru the fabric. Thanks for jump starting my day in the sewing room with another great video.

[@amydement.]

Good morning! So glad you enjoyed it. Your day sounds busy and amazing I hope it’s a good one and I envy your coffee - we were out this morning (crisis!).

[@rebeccapullen595]

I adore scraps! They make the most dynamic, beautiful quilts that represent the essence of quilts of lore. It feels thrifty and somewhat virtuous to make something beautiful and useful from scraps that others would discard!

[@amydement.]

I totally agree! Thanks for watching.

[@pauladimattei6434]

Oh do I save scraps, and I use them. I sort scraps by color. I used to process them into pre cut sizes. But I didn’t tend to use them. I have an Accuquilt electric cutter and many dies. So what I do now is this. I plan my quilt and decide on a color “story”. And choose my chosen colors from my scrap drawers. I sort of kit my quilt and cut the necessary sizes I need then. I love hearing about how people “process” their scraps. I too keep strings. I have a large tub of neutrals and a large tub of colored strings. I do love string quilts. I got hooked on them watching Bonnie Hunter. She has some great string quilt books. Love all of your videos. Thank you for all you do. ❤

[@amydement.]

That’s a great process! Thanks for sharing.

[@wendywilson1736]

I get how and why you sort your scraps your way.😊 But, I found my color system wasn't getting mine used up, much. I'm ready to do it by size, now, because I now know what sizes I will be most likely to use. And, since I throw alllll of the colors in each of my quilt tops, sorting by color requires me to lug allll of my boxes out. I'm at the point I just want to pull out only one box to make something. I've been at this for about 50 years, now, started when I was an older teen. And it has taken me this long to figure out my habits and desires. Hopefully Not that long for the rest of you quilters!😏

[@myrahaner942]

I process my scraps like this as well. I cut sizes I use most. Anything over 1 yard gets folded and put with yardage. Anything under a yard and larger than a fat quarter gets folded and put into shoe boxes, sorted by color. I started doing it this way because I wasn't using my scraps because it was too overwhelming. I also work with a lot of hand me down fabric and thrifted fabric, which tends to be smaller remnants anyways. I do find it a little time consuming cutting it all up. I keep a small bin and try to process scraps once it's full. I was surprised at how fast you processed yours with that ruler though. During your video I realized I have a shape cut ruler that was given to me and it goes up to 12 inches square! I don't know why I didn't think of using it before. So thank you for the inspiration! My scrap bin is full and this afternoon I plan on using that ruler to knock out some precuts and have some progress satisfaction 😂

[@amydement.]

Oh thank you! It does take time. I hope your shape it ruler helps you be speedy too!

[@barbarasinopoli7690]

I love scraps!! I save and sort by color. Almost all of my quilts are scrappy, in fact I mostly break into yardage only for borders and backings. I’ve discovered swapping scraps, a win/win! Sometimes I just can’t look at a fabric for another minute, but they will be new and exciting for a quilting friend. Yay!!

[@amydement.]

I do the same thing! When you’re just using little pieces those scraps can hang around a LONG time and sometimes - ohh - they just NEED to GO!

[@Hitchhikergal]

💙💚💙💚💙 I love the stripology rulers too!

[@amydement.]

I know you do!!!

[@monataylor2600]

Saving scraps is easy … using scraps, oh my. I did just finish a Halloween quilt with scraps! One win!!!

[@amydement.]

Isn’t that the truth!

[@pattweimer9268]

Since my brain CANNOT make a 'random ', scrap; only a ' curator', tyoe quilt. I cut any leftovers (size appropriate), to 5"'s only. Everything else gets sent yo best friend , 48yrs, in Florida. She makes the most amazing quilts ever made. Far above my abilities. I have 2 totes of solids, 2 totes of prints only. Totes are not large, can't lift otherwise. ALL other fabric is in zip bags with pattern included. I have more fabric than many shops, BUT it's well & truly organized. I'm crazy but organized!

[@amydement.]

I love that for you AND for your friend. Finding a system that works FOR YOU is the key. Thanks for watching and for sharing.

[@pamartman1]

I love scraps and make many scrap quilts! I do organize all my scraps in plastic drawers. I must confess to being a bit OCD. I have a few drawers of large pieces, but smaller than a fat quarter, sorted by color. Next are my solids and tone on tone large pieces for appliqué. After that, the madness begins. Strips that are larger than 3” in one drawer. Then a drawer for 3”, a drawer for 2.5”, a drawer for 2”, a drawer for 1.5 and a drawer for 1” all strips of any length. Then I have my squares drawers, starting with 5”, then 4.5”, 4”, 3”, 2.5”, 2”, and finally 1” squares. Last, I have two drawers of triangles, one for half square triangles and the other for all other triangles. Only the large pieces are sorted by color. The rest I pick out colors when I’m pulling scraps for a particular quilt. The drawers are quite shallow, so when one gets full, I pick a pattern that uses that size square, strip, or triangle. Lately it’s been half square triangles in red, white and black for a bear paws quilt, 1.5” strips in blues and whites for a pineapple quilt and green and beige 2.5” squares for something with 4 patches… still working on that one!

[@amydement.]

That’s awesome and I’m so glad it works for you. That’s the key to the whole thing. Thanks for watching!!

[@brideoflevi]

I save all the scraps 😂 i love scrappy quilting. I have 3 sizes of epp hexies that i take on the road. I'm working on a 1.5 inch postage stamp quilt. Sometimes those are leaders and enders or I'll set a timer and work on it. I get a lot of scraps from friends or the thrift store so I make improv quilts to bust through those and practice new skills. Lately I've been making wonky log cabins (duckworth blocks) out of my strings all in one color at a time. I also recently got a 4 inch and 6 inch square ruler so those have helped me go towards pre-cutting my scraps. Overall i alternate between a scrappy project, which brings lots of joy and no stress, with true pattern projects... And have my epp and postage stamp running in the background to eat scraps 😁

[@amydement.]

Sounds awesome!

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

The harder I work at using up my scraps, the more scraps I have. I love working in scraps. I have spent many happy days cutting my scraps into 2 1/2 inch squares, 2 1/2 X 4 1/2 in rectangles, and 5 inch squares. If I ever get to my larger pieces of scraps, I will cut 2 1/2 inch strips, 2 inch strips, 1 1/2 inch strips, and 10 inch squares (and anything I can add to my smaller per-cuts). I was taught by my parents and teachers to save my scraps.

[@amydement.]

They do seem to multiply do t they 😄. Thanks for watching and for sharing!

[@peggyfanning9258]

Love, Love, Love scrap quilts! I think this is because I am utilitarian at heart. Thank you for your videos!

[@amydement.]

Me too!! Thank you so much for watching!

[@lanapoulliot7682]

I'm using my scraps to make crumb quilting 10" squares. It is so freeing and relaxing! I use scissors for most of the work, then a rotary cutter and mat for cutting the finished crumb chunks into squares. I'm having lots of fun doing this!!

[@amydement.]

Sounds great! Having fun is the best part! Thank you for watching!

[@pennysmith7936]

Nice if you can't afford batting I us old Press denim.sheats I get at a u-haul place for thing there creeper you get a lot I buy 4 bags of them.thay us it for moveing people .lol ok gl

[@forprivacyreasonsimnottell9427]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who has a hard time with math in my head. That was actually 40 5" squares. 😂 I love your method. Your personality is so cute and bubbly! I must subscribe!

[@amydement.]

Thanks for watching.

[@kathleenmayhorne3183]

Thank-you or your ideas. I watched the lady from the quilted forest. She got out her many scrap bins, with her 2 1/2" strips she sewed the ends together and ran them under the iron, some were a real mess, then rolled them up like jelly rolls on an old spool, ribbon or elastic? She got two rows side by side on it. She got a whole bin tamed neat enough to put on a shelf, for her next jelly roll race style quilts. Have you seen Brenda from mt scrapmore, she makes potato chip blocks, with 2 1/2" × 4 1/2"bricks or their smaller or larger cousins. She also put together an orphan blocks quilt, in the jr race style, that worked well. She does a lot of tedious work with leaders and enders, while sewing up other things. Ready in advance for the next project. Pat sloan has light and dark squares for leaders and enders, keeping to a theme, she does blue, green or another colour, sews two pairs light and dark, turns them into 4-patches opposite corners for lights, after she's done her project for the day, puts 4 together for a larger block, and sets them aside until she has enough. 4×4, 32-patches could be a baby quilt? 5 or 6 × 9 or 10 would be a twin? Or mix up the sizes and do a really scrappy one. You could make all sorts of smaller gifts with the double 4-patches. You could really tame those blues? Tiffany recently did a free visual pattern with increasing 4-patch sizes that fit all together. 1 1/2", 2 1/2", 4 /2" , and 8 1/2", i think? And said if you don't "do" fiddly little pieces, skip them. You can easy cut down those 10" squares too, for the right colour 2 1/2", 3", 5", etc. You must have so much fun, from the quilts on your wall for exaample, with your scraps. All the best.

[@amydement.]

Those are some of my favorite creators! Thanks for the great call outs. The jelly roll strips on reels was awesome! Thanks for sharing and for watching!

[@rebeccawolf3196]

I have a love/hate relationship with scraps. I hate waste so I will use them eventually but the hate comes in because I have seen these colors and fabrics while doing a quilt so by the time they become scraps, I am so sick of looking at them. I leave the pile for a while and process it when I have the inclination. My process is much the same as yours. 10" , 5" blocks, 2.5" strips, if I have longer 2" strips, I will cut them to 2"x3.5" and save those for leader and enders when I sewing another project ( it makes a good scrappy quilt project from seweasy's channel). Thanks for sharing and I just subscribed. I really hope to see more scrap content to motivate me.

[@amydement.]

Oh thank you so much for watching and subscribing! I know just what you mean. There are some fabrics that I get tired of seeing but somehow when they’re all worked into a quilt - they still look great. Count on seeing more scrap content- it’s my favorite way to quilt!

[@Avotts]

I dont mind creating fabric. put a seam in it and get your 10 inch sq pieces. Oh my, pandemic squares...crazy mam crazy. I had no scraps because I had not seriously sewn in years. I decided I wanted to sew someway. I bought and had cleaned 2 machines, I watched a ton of videos. I went to Joanns...I lost heart. I went to walMart and picked out various colors all the same size..1/4 yd. Washed all and ironed all and stored them away. I was not happy at prices or selection. I remembered how my great grandmother used crumbs of all the clothes she made, mostly from flour sacks. I said well let me find cotton clothes that I can deconstruct, I went to Salvation Armt thrift and bought mostly kids clothes. I washed and ironed and stored it away. Later I decided to try a large Goodwill. I found yardages of beautiful dress fabrics that I had to buy. Also, lots of new flat sheets in white and various colors. I founf drapes and duvet covers. Almost every thing was new, I also found drapes. All were washed and ironed and stored away. I did cut apart most of the shirts. I did not cut the sheets. I have lovely fabrics in many colors and designs. Mostly from $1.00 mens shirts. Look at shirts...there is a lot of fabric in them. So now I have scraps and dress making fabric and sewing machines and backing. I hope to soon be able to start working on them. I have a tote full of clothes to mend. I also bought a mid arm quilting frame. Before now I have only done hand quilting and dress making. I also picked up some silk to mend a damaged comforter.

[@amydement.]

Great Point - thanks!

[@upriver7047]

Hi Amy, You just popped up on my suggested list. I'm Rose and it's nice to meet you! I just worked scraps today after being gifted 3 trash bags of scraps yesterday. I sort large pieces by color into ckear pkastic bins. Smaller pieces get processed much like yours but I use different sizes ( Lori Holt method). I'm working on scrap quilts for five sisters and nine grandkids, all nade from scraps. I've finished seven quilts this year and haven't made a dent in my stash. Almost all my fabrics have come from garage sales snd estate sales. The only time I pay full price is if I need a large backing or a background in a specific color. I'm cheap like thst, lol but recipients would never know the difference.

[@amydement.]

Sounds awesome. Thanks for watching and for sharing. I hope you enjoy the channel and I’m glad you’re here!

[@sarahkinsey5434]

I wouldn't say cheap, more like resourceful!

[@DonnasCreativeAdventures]

I use to toss anything less than half a yard. Then, I donated. Thanks to you, I have a whole new way to look at the extra fabric which I always thought was a huge waste. Hope you have a fabulous day.

[@amydement.]

Wonderful! Thanks for watching.

[@IndecisiveQuilter]

I love my scraps and I process in a similar way, only next level. I try to process them after every project. I started cutting 10", 5", 4.5", 4", 3.5", 3", 2.5", 2" and 1.5" squares. That created too many tubs, so I've decided to change. In the last few weeks I've been cutting 10" squares, 5" strips and squares, 2.5" strips and squares and 1.5" strips and squares. If I am short on time I just cut strips. I've been using scraps more than my FQs and yardage lately and I'm trying not to buy any new fabric until I make a slight dint in my stash (unless I need it to finish a project). So far, so good! I think I need a stripology ruler - and now I'm posting this comment 45 minutes after typing it because *squirrel* Amazon and stripolgy ruler (which I didn't buy - yet!)

[@amydement.]

You’re cracking me up! I’m glad you’ve got a system that’s working.

[@IndecisiveQuilter]

@@amydement. Me too! I think I'm going to spend some time and create coordinated packs from my scraps - homemade charm packs and layer cakes.

[@meriwalker1207]

Not only do I save scraps, I save everyone’s scraps. I belong to a small guild; everyone gives me their scraps. I acculturation 5 in squares and 2.5 in strips as well as 2.5 in squares. I do not throw my tiny scraps away, I use them to stuff cat beds for a local no kill shelter. I do mine all in one day. I dump a bag of scraps on my cutting table, sort out big scraps, press and cut, stuffing beds as I go. One of my favorites is a crib size quilt I made from large trimming from a bed quilt. Cut smaller blocks, sewed them together, added sashing, and boom! A quilt for an underprivileged kid. Thanks for good ideas, starting color coded bins and a string bin.

[@meriwalker1207]

Accucut not acculturation

[@amydement.]

Thank you for watching and that smaller from the larger is such a great idea - thanks for that and thank you for keeping someone in need in your heart!

[@muffysfeatherweightattachm7134]

Why have your strips got a v on the edge ?

[@joyfuljan77]

I do cut my scraps but have never thought to use my stripology ruler. What a great tip! Thanks for sharing.

[@amydement.]

You are so welcome!

[@gardencat4952]

I didn't want to to cut my scraps a second time for a project. I found a dozen or so scrappy quilt patterns I want to make. I figured out the common shapes and sizes to make these patterns. I am finding more patterns that use these sizes and shapes all the time. While more complicated than your system I can sit and sew from my precut pieces anytime. I use my Accuquilt to cut my scraps and store the pieces in containers by size and stacks by color. It makes it very easy to pull together a project and start sewing. I cut the following shapes and sizes. 4.5" , 3.5", 2.5", and 2" squares 6.5" x 3.5", 4.5" x 2.5", 3.5" x 2.5" rectangles 2.5", 2", and 1.5" strips I have also cut HST's in 2" finished, 4" finished, and 6" finished in certain colors for a couple of projects. These shapes and sizes play well together. The 2", 3.5" and 6'5" based pieces can be used together in blocks. The1.5", 2.5", and 4.5" based pieces also can be used in blocks together. I have way too much fabric and often pull other fabrics to round out my precut scraps for a project. I also cut hexagons for English Paper Piecing. Crumbs and strings are sorted by color or active project. Now that I have cut up a large portion of my scraps I need to assemble a binder of all the patterns that I have found that use these shapes and sizes.

[@amydement.]

That’s a great system that works well for you. Awesome!! That’s what it’s all about. Finding what works so we can quilt more! Thanks for watching and for sharing!

[@janwright5844]

I save my scraps and those from my friends too!! The tiny scraps make stuffing for draught excluders for the homeless Dog beds too. I also save selvedges - with plans to use them one day. I enjoy your videos, thank you. Take care

[@amydement.]

Great ideas!! Thanks for watching and for sharing!

[@Lauria2875]

My paternal grandmother would get precut squares and sew them together any old way as they came to hand. Didn't even bother to line up the corners. Some of her seams were a quarter inch off. On the other side, my great grandmothers ...I honestly don't know how their quilts were made. Its like they grabbed two pieces of scrap, sewed a straight line. Grabbed two more, and kept going till they somehow had a full quilt top. I've tried to recreate both types and discovered I can not deal with random fabric placement. It sets my teeth on edge. The closest I've ever come to random was a nine patch with solid squares between. And that was hard! lol THEN I decided to try paper piecing. Low and behold, I could deal with random. But only hexagons, and only paper pieced. I have no idea why, but that's what I'm going with for now.

[@amydement.]

I find this very interesting and understand completely. I’m glad you enjoy the English paper piecing process and that it offers you a connection to your own history. That’s a real treasure. Thank you so much for watching and sharing.

[@Lauria2875]

@@amydement. Its been an interesting journey. I grew up in a dirt poor area. They didn't have money for an art program fifth through eighth grades. So instead they had exploratory classes. Where the teachers picked a hobby they enjoyed and taught that. Students could pick what they wanted to learn, and it changed each quarter. Only, instead of learning a nice hobby or two to last me through my life I became a technique junkie. I love learning new things, even if I don't stick to it after. I figured paper piecing would be one of those, "hum interesting" things that I learned and tucked away inside my head in case of need. But I loved it. And now I have a million 1.5 inch hexagonal floating around. Seriously, They're everywhere. Its worse then cat hair!

[@amydement.]

That is awesome about the program and hilarious about the hexies. I hear you about those hexies. I just finished a 12-year project of a king sized 1” hexie quilt with over 3600 pieces and I find the papers in the weirdest places!

[@marlenehinton5749]

I started in 1998 and loved scrappy quilts. Problem was I didn’t have any. So I collected tons of FQs. Made several quilts then kinda finished my scrappy period,and 10 years later I found my sewing space (which was my busy family’s family room) was being overrun with bins of scraps. I really got tired of the constant (sorta controlled) mess that was taking over my family space. So I-hold on tight- threw them all away. All. Of course I kept my FQs, they were carefully sorted into colors and each color was in it’s own small box. I now have a bookcase with doors from IKEA with yardage flat folded and stored vertically like books and my FQ boxes in a second bookshelf/cabinet. Now I use my larger pieces and cut as I use them for patterns.

[@amydement.]

*GASP* - no I totally get it! Sometimes things just need to be OUT of our lives! Your system sounds perfect for you!

[@dianemahoney5625]

I found this video in my feed last night. ❤ I have since gone back and watched all your videos from the beginning. You inspire me. So happy to have found your channel. I adore scraps, thrift stores and not being wasteful. As for you, you have clearly done your research about filming and editing videos. Thank you for putting out videos that are well done. You are a joy to listen to and watch! I needed your joy today. Welcome to my feed and my home. I will enjoy spending time with you 😊. Diane

[@amydement.]

I'm so glad! Thank you for your kind words and thank you for watching!

[@Linda-fs3ex]

I love my scraps more than my stash. I cut into 2.5 strips, 2.5 squares and 5” squares. I make many scrap quilts. I have found that using a solid, usually a brighter color, ties it all together. I take my 5 inch squares and I cut them into tumblers and I make tumbler quilts. I can pretty much process the same way you do except I have a basket that is not that big and when it is full, I must process my scraps. I probably make about 12 scrap quilts a year. I really enjoyed your video. I must remember to set a timer for 15 minutes.

[@amydement.]

Thank you so much. Sounds like you’ve got your scraps totally tamed! Awesome.

[@bonniewoodfine136]

Love your sense of humor....15 minute increments is a great idea.

[@amydement.]

Thanks so much!

[@cindywagner4623]

Exactly what I do. I don’t make 10” as it’s too big. I’m mostly scrappy but now are called crumb. Definitely save scraps. I’m almost done with my first string quilt 1.5”. I keep a pillow case for those toss aways. I stuff them sew them shut for pet beds, kennel pads. Makes me feel better than tossing them. I’ve been asked by a friend if I would ever consider making paper with tossed fabric. I don’t know how to make paper but it would be colorful.

[@amydement.]

Very cool! Thanks for watching.

[@greenquiltsgalore1326]

I use my regular rulers and 45m rotary cutter. I try to do a scrap project regularly. My favourite though is making trivets (aka potholders!) which I donate to a wildlife rescue fundraiser. It thrills me to see those scraps out of a landfill and being used to raise money then to be used to protect people's hands while cooking!

[@amydement.]

That's a great idea! I bet they’re awesome too! Thanks for watching and for sharing.

[@pennysmith7936]

Wow nice I make dog bed for shelter using my crape I make hand bags am on bottle holder for Christmas .ok gl thanks

[@susanonealsmith8434]

Thank you! Love the scrap tips - and I’ll use them. But my favorite part of this video was when you said you started this process during the pandemic. I laughed out loud, and I’m sewing on binding - alone! Glad I wasn’t the only one doing things to gain control during that time. Thanks for the real life laugh!!

[@amydement.]

Man the struggle was REAL! Thanks so much for watching and for laughing along with me.

[@maldridge1311]

Yes to all your questions. . . love this idea!!! I'm trying to get down to precut sizes, in the beginning I did each half inch from 1.5 up to ??? I am part of a group that makes baby quilts for a pregnancy crisis center and lap quilts for an assisted living facility. We learned to put a rectangular pocket on the front of the lap quilts for warming hands, tissues, lip balm, phone, etc. Love your cheerful demeanor and your emphasis on what works for the individual!

[@amydement.]

Thank you! Your charity sewing sounds amazing and the pocket on the quilt idea is GENIUS! Thank you for watching and sharing.

[@barbarasinopoli7690]

Pre-pandemic, my chronic illness decided to flare so I was housebound for days at a time. I went on a rampage through my stash, and pulled any fabric that wasn’t sparking joy. Then I cut up that yardage into precuts. The size of the cut was directly proportional to how much I still liked it. Keepers went into FQ’s or layer cakes. Not so much, went into charm squares or 2.5” strips. And really don’t likes went into 2” or 1.5” strips, and mini-charms. The horrendous, What Was I Thinking, garish pattern that was unbearable as yardage, made colorful and joyful strips for my stash, and yawningly boring yardage turned into soothing strips and squares for the eye to rest. Win/win!!

[@amydement.]

Win for sure! See I knew it wasn’t just me! 🙃🙃. Thanks so much for watching and for sharing!

[@judisewnsew6514]

❤

[@lesa6399]

I tend to cut up my scraps as I go, if I can. The “weird” pcs I save, sew together or put in my “stuffing” bag (no trash). My “someday” make is calling for my attention! 😊

[@amydement.]

Great system! Thanks for watching.

[@NemoMeImpuneLacessitNevermore]

I splurged on a Stripology ruler. Worth. Every. Penny. 🥰 My scraps are sorted by color. Mostly. I’m working on getting them cut into usable sizes. I appreciate your channel!

[@amydement.]

Thank you - it’s an investment but I do love that tool! Thanks for watching.

[@christinejernigan5748]

Hi Amy! Loved the video... I have a drawer full (lifetime amount) of scraps sorted by size only, for making multi-colored scrap quilts. But recently I decided to use scraps on the backs of the quilt providing the scraps. Works great!

[@amydement.]

Great idea!

[@karenr.sternberg1920]

I've been doing that for some time. Keeps the Scrap collection down somewhat. It's also fun & nice design exercise!

[@Hilary-l5p]

What a good idea. Feel like a light went on in my head! Thank you and enjoy.

[@sharondadswell846]

You bet I save scraps, even the ones too small for sewing projects I save for stuffing projects. I also save by color. My brain just processes it easier that way. I am just in the middle of a big move. My Grandson has taken most of my sewing bins to the locker til I am able to get to my new place. Let me tell you I feel naked without all my bins. I am glad I still have a few left here with me so I don't have to go and buy more. Thanks so much for your truly bubbly personality. I will be watching more of your videos.

[@amydement.]

Thank you so much! I hope you are sorted and sewing in your new space really soon!

[@m00nwise]

I love working with scraps. I am one of those people that uses other peoples scraps. Pieces smaller dan 5” and larger then 1.5”, most people call them crumbs I guess. I also got a box of 2,5” en 5” inch strips. Larger pieces are in my fabric boxes; FQ, F8, F16 and other bits and pieces. All is sorted by color. All tiny cut offs go in a bin to fill pillows with. I don’t have any yardage

[@amydement.]

YES! I was just at a retreat and everytime I got up to press a block I’d return to find a scrap fairy had left me more pieces. It was delightful!

[@diannplatt-roberts8692]

Yes, i have scraps. Tons if them. I do a lot of charity tops for a hospital in Afruca. The Potato Chip block is my favorite from Conquering Mount Scrapmore.

[@amydement.]

Thanks for sharing!

[@harryburkett7754]

I have a plethora of scraps in 3, 4, and 5 inch squares! My tiny scraps are sorted by color or holiday and I also have bags of 1.5, 2 and 2.5 inch strips. I bring a bag of scraps to my quilting group and process them there so I don't have to haul the machine. The key is putting them in the appropriate bag or bin when I get home. It is pretty easy to stay on top of scraps if you deal with them after each project. Now if I just had time to sew all of the scraps I have prepared!!

[@amydement.]

All true! You have a GREAT system! Thanks for watching

[@wendimiller8915]

I was bemoaning the cost of that Stripology ruler and complaining that I’d only use it for “one thing”. Well, now I can see that I was whining! I love scraps! Having this ruler will be an amazing tool for creating pre-cuts with! Thank you! And I also sort by color and then usually sort my bins in ROYGBIV.

[@amydement.]

Glad it was helpful! It is quite the investment to be sure, but I use it all the time. Also check out GE Deaigns channel and homepage for tons of demos on using the ruler (she designed it). Thanks for watching!

[@wendimiller8915]

@@amydement. I will do that. Anything to make the price okay in my brain.

[@suzpain]

I came to quilting to use up the scraps left over from mask making during the beginning of the pandemic. I love the stripology ruler. It is probably one of the best investments I made in cutting rulers.

[@amydement.]

It IS a great investment tool. Thanks so much for watching!

[@vikkirountoit497]

Great video! Love Love Love my scraps. Favorite quilting method is scraps. Favorite color is scraps. Favorite food is scraps JK. Though I process by color into bins, I don't precut anything as I mostly make up my patterns as I go. When a bin gets full, I focus on it for a quilt or 2. My grandmother was a/the seamstress in her town and I remember visiting even at 6 years old - she had a scrap bin by her main machine that was a cardboard tube at least 2ft diameter and 3ft tall - no idea where she got it. Was always at least 2/3 full of scraps from wedding fabric and trousers and more. Very little was wasted. I try to channel her talent all the time:) I'm also lucky to have 2 friends that sew and prefer Not to save scraps. One picks a pattern and buys the fabric and makes the quilt or all the projects she wants from the fabric and she gives me the scraps. The other makes smaller projects but eventually doesn't have things to match up and doesn't have the space to keep all the excess, so she gives me the pieces she no longer thinks she will use. Very grateful that they bag their scraps up and save them for me.

[@amydement.]

That sounds completely wonderful! Thank you for watching!

[@annettemaxie-mahmoud2390]

Thanks for a very interesting scrap processing video. I have one medium size plastic bin for small and one for larger scraps because I use every bit of fabric I can. I don’t like to waste fabric. I do use the scraps for other projects as needed. ❤

[@amydement.]

Thanks for watching and for sharing. I love that you use things completely!

[@barbolson8768]

Hi Amy, it's nice to see you again. Do I save my scraps ? Yes. Why ? I don't know. I have never made anything from my scraps. Sure I have a few bins full of every size scrap and various shapes and sizes. After watching your video, maybe I need to get myself into gear and process them like you suggest. Thank you for making it look so easy. Cheers from Canada.

[@amydement.]

HaHaHa! too funny. It IS easy - it just takes time.

[@MaeEllis-jd9pb]

I save ALL my scraps! I have more scrap than yardage!!! Thank you for all your ideas.

[@amydement.]

Me too! It’s so much fun! Thank you.

[@hazelgeno]

Great idea! My scraps are all crazy in a couple of big totes!

[@amydement.]

Thanks - it's a long process but it works for me.

[@rachelb4235]

I'm always amazed at how many scraps some quilters have. I really don't have that many. I really don't cut down what I have either except for strips but I'm using those to make a string quilt. Maybe I'm looking at my fabric wrong. lol

[@amydement.]

Not at all. I collect scraps from everywhere - they aren’t all mine. It’s funny once people know you use scraps they just keep turning up! Thanks for watching and for sharing.

[@debbiebraatz1919]

I’ve been collecting “Pre-cut” patterns from magazines and books to use with my scraps that I process. They come in handy for charity projects or if I need a quick baby quilt for a gift!

[@amydement.]

They absolutely do! Thanks for sharing.

[@pst47wings]

Yes! I keep scraps 🙂 10" sq 5" sq and strips 2.5" strips and squares 1.5" squares 3.5" squares 4.5" squares And i use them primarily for donation quilts, but pieces often get used up when making a scrappy quilt for me 😊

[@amydement.]

I love your system! I'm a big fan of donating quilts and precut squares are awesome to keep everything moving! 😜

[@barbarasinopoli7690]

My scrap system is similar. I have a large basket on my cutting table that is the catch all for all scraps. When the basket is full, I first of all sort by color. I have bins for each color, including green vs spring green, and blue vs aqua and teals. I even have a bin for too many colors so I can’t decide where it goes. Those are fun for children’s quilts. I often don’t cut scraps until I’m working on a specific project. I do have a separate basket for crumbs, all colors, and two string bins, cool vs warm. This seems to work for me. I store all my 2.5” strips together, sorted by color, and same with 2” and 1.5” strips. It makes my heart happy to sort them into color families.

[@amydement.]

WOW - LOVE the detail! Thanks so much for watching and for sharing your system.

[@hepworthfamily]

I do save scraps but don't cut them down until I need them. I'm always afraid if I cut them down that they will then be too small when I find a pattern to use them in. 😊 I've usually got a few scrap projects going so my bins don't get too bad. And only small pieces go in a bin. Bigger scraps get folded up and put with other big scraps. And don't make me define big and small scraps! Lol

[@amydement.]

That's a good idea! Thanks for watching.

[@helenfields2318]

I do the same as you. I don't want to render something too small until I know how I'm going to use it. Except I will cut small reds and creams to 2" sq. 1" sq. and 1.5 strips because I have 4 scrap buster quilts 'in long-time progress' to use those up.

[@peggyfanning9258]

I follow a version of this thought; however, having scraps piled up and wrinkled just bothers me. So, I iron them flat and then, just because I love working with fabric, cut them into the largest scrap (or strip) I can get from them. The remainder piece is so small it just goes in with my crumbs. By the way, my crumbs are really crumbs! I do this on a TV tray in front of the TV so that I can spend some time with my husband -- we are retired and I find I love spending time in my quilting room!

[@carlaatkins2619]

Amy, comment #2: This was actually the very first video I watched. It took a while to save for my ruler because saving time makes sense. Next on my saving budget the Accuquilt machine. Please sometime show a clip on how you do that. Thanks because you make my quilting life beautiful. 🎶💐💖

[@amydement.]

Oh thank you. I have plans for lots of Accuquilt videos coming in March and over the next few months. I hear you on the ruler. It is an investment piece and I hope you love it. 😍

[@lizgranger5053]

I save scraps and have quilt tops made from them. Keep on scraping..!♥️♥️

[@amydement.]

Will do!! Thanks for watching I’m glad you’re here!

[@DandelionStitches]

I am inspired! I needed this video in my life! xo

[@amydement.]

Thank you! Awesome! Hopefully you can find a system that works in your new space!

[@olenkaki1326]

What I love most about precutting the fabric is that takes minimum place and can be stored pressed in perfect condition.

[@amydement.]

Excellent point. I totally agree!

[@thecheekyquilters]

I need that ruler!!! I have large buckets of unprocessed scraps. I DO use them for scrappy projects ❤

[@amydement.]

I find it a worthy investment! Thanks for watching.

[@sioux9468]

You have a wonderful matter-of-fact, down-to-earth personality which is so refreshing! Thanks for your video. I organize my scraps differently, but I believe I may convert to your method.

[@amydement.]

It’s all about a system you will use! Thanks so much for watching.

[@dianemerrill3177]

I also cut fat quarters from not quite a yard remnants that I have. Scraps go into precuts that I use often. I also cut hunks and chunks with my crazy quilt templates. I just finished two crazy quilts this week out of a box of those pieces. Creative grids crazier eights template set.

[@amydement.]

Great ideas- thank you!

[@lauralovestoquilt]

I cut my scraps into precut sizes unless I can use the piece for applique. I use my scraps-I enjoy the challenge. If I didn’t enjoy it, I wouldn’t do it. I use the same tools as you. I now choose fabrics differently knowing they will be used in multiple projects!

[@amydement.]

Love that!

[@mishti06]

I most certainly save scraps, mostly because we pay a premium price for fabric these days and I don't want to waste any. My problem is, as much as I want to store it as precut shapes, I do use my quilting fabric for a variety of applications so sometimes it's better not to cut it up. It gets messy, I get overwhelmed, I get frustrated.😅 But lately I have been trying this method. Great video Amy, I really enjoy your channel.😊

[@amydement.]

Thank you so much. Yes, storing as precuts is a trade-off and it’s a matter of what your looking for or deciding how you work most effectively. For me precut sizes help keep the visual chaos at bay and that is what I need. Others don’t have that need and work better from an organic state. It’s all about you and your workflow. Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your thought!

[@dianec1712]

I’m still learning different techniques. I started strip piecing with 81/2 x11 newsprint paper. Hopefully I will learn to make a quilt with them. I’ve made cute hot pads out of them also. I just found you by scrolling on KZbin and I’m so glad I did. Have to go now……… need to check out the rest of your site. Thank you😊

[@connieking9873]

So glad I found your channel. I am enjoying your ideas and process. I never thought about setting a timer as it goes so fast with my short June Taylor stripology ruler. I have a 10” ruler that I use a lot. I just cut up 49 mens dress shirts. Then I went to 5” strips and 5” squares. After that I did 2.5 strips and 2.5 squares. I have my scraps for crumb quilting and a few smaller strips but nothing smaller than one inch. I pared down about a year and a half ago after watching Suze at Revelation Quilts. She had an awesome video that really spoke to me. I love scrap quilting and enjoy putting together at the drop of a hat. When I aimlessly sew I make blocks a little bigger than 10” and trim to 10 and store in a drawer or storage box until I have enough to make something . I also use my short strips to sew to adding tape about 14” and store them also for borders. Thanks for this video. I am catching up slowly.

[@amydement.]

Thank you for sharing! I'm glad you're here!

[@joydalton4987]

Yes, I save scraps and I have you some. I’m a new quilter so i don’t have that much. I do use frankenbatting, the art of sewing batting scraps to make a bigger piece, no sense in wasting anything. That ruler is cool.

[@amydement.]

Oh it won’t belong before scraps begin to find you! Franken batting is a great way to be resourceful and works fantastically. Thank you for watching!

[@RNKoriginalss]

Hi Amy! So happy to see this post from ya! I separate scraps into 9 color bins … I do use scraps once I have a quilt and color inspiration… I also look to my scraps for confetti quilt wallhangings and plain inspiration for a new quilt as I rarely repeat a quilt top! I do not cut my scraps up because I do much fabric crafts so until I use some of that fabric… I leave it irregular and all … Thanks for asking

[@amydement.]

Sounds great! What is a confetti wall quilt?

[@carlaatkins2619]

Amy, your scrap processing is genuis. You think like a Mathematician. I subscribed 6 minutes into this video, which is the first time I've ever seen you work. I'm looking forward to doing some binging. Your new friend from New Mexico, Carla 🎶💖💐

[@amydement.]

Wow, thank you! Welcome Carla! I'm really glad you're here.

[@patriciacrafton92]

Hi Amy, another good video! I cut 10,” 5,” and 2.5 inch squares from my scraps - strings and odd pieces are sorted and stored by color in 2 gal Ziplock bags. Bags then go into storage cubes in my Kallax unit from IKEA. I use the scraps for scrap blocks and to “make” fabric; Tracy from the Sewing Channel has a great video about making rainbow star blocks out of scraps.

[@amydement.]

Sounds great! Thanks for watching.

[@lorifontaine]

Hi Amy! Oh YES to scraps!!! I make my own and friends donate them to me. I keep pre-cut sizes (2 1/2", 5", 6") in square cookie tins from the thrift store--they stack on shelves and keep fabric dust free. I also make crumb and string blocks and keep those in other tins which saves time when I'm making charity quilts. For your viewers that toss scraps, please suggest that they offer them to other quilters or guilds to make charity quilts or items for Christmas charities. (How many string zip pouches were sent to my local Xmas charity last year? Don't get me started!!!) You are the best Amy!!! Hugs from Canada.

[@amydement.]

Isn’t it funny how when you tell people you use scraps they just keep showing up 😜. Thanks for sharing!!!

[@DK-hv1gt]

I also save/cut my scraps in 10", 5", & 2 1/2" squares as well as 2 1/2" strips using my Accuquilt dies. Ahhhh! Wonderful. So easy. So fun.

[@hildiborkowski4436]

I save EVERYTHING!!! 😂. When I get a lot of them, I always make scrap quilts. The smaller pieces I keep to make scrap squares. I just sit and sew until I get a piece big enough and then cut that into squares. The super little scraps I use as stuffing for pillows, pet beds, or anything else I need stuffing for. I try not to put any fabric scraps in landfill. I use everything.

[@WendyBonds-o9x]

I am fairly new to quilting since I'll be retiring in couple of years; I love using scraps that my friend gave me, making scrappy potholders. I sort the scraps by size of strings. Thanks for teaching me!! 🤙

[@amydement.]

You're welcome, Thank you for watching!

[@janeahrens572]

No! I haven’t processed scraps. This gave me hope. The whole manageable amount of time and scraps. Thanks

[@amydement.]

You can do it!

[@marshawallace7522]

I just started organizing some old fabrics when I made a Scrappy Triple Irish Chain quilt. It used 2 1/2" squares. I cut 2 1/2" WOF strips then some into squares but I kept many in WOF strips to use as possible binding, borders, log cabin strips, etc. I store by size then by color or value. I enjoyed your video!

[@amydement.]

Thank you. I’m so glad you shared your system. Sounds like it works great!

[@jo-annevandermey2704]

I do save scraps. I have tried various ways to organize them. My main fabric is sorted into colour bins. FQs to 2 yard cuts by batiks and regular fabric. Kids stuff has a bin and Christmas has a bin. I have to rethink thid because I also have solids...a bin or two, hand dyes, indigo dyed, ice dyed and eco printed. I may have a problem.... This summer I took my kids scraps, a neutral bin and cut them up for kids charity quilts. I also cut up my batik scraps to make a colorwash quilt. And my mask making scraps to cut a hexegon Quilt as you go. Now I have to many things to work on.... This winter I need to plow through them and get them done. I hope we are snowed in alot so I dont have to go out!

[@amydement.]

Sounds awesome and super fun. I hope YOU get snow and WE don’t 😋

[@EOgma]

I save scraps and make quilts that require 2 1/2" squares, mostly. They always turn out cool, and I give them away.

[@amydement.]

Awesome!

[@quiltedclothdesigns]

I love to cut fabric! I am going to dig into my scraps and start cutting.

[@amydement.]

Go for it! Thanks for watching.

[@quiltedclothdesigns]

I spent two hours cutting 10" and 5" squares. So relaxing!!!@@amydement.

[@michellefrazier7499]

I just discovered your channel! I do the same process as you, same sizes. Although I don’t have an accuquilt, I do have all of the stripology rulers and LOVE them. You are right, you don’t need them, but the time savings and improved accuracy I think are well worth the investment. I would get the largest one if you have to chose as it will help you process just about everything really fast. GE Designs, who makes the ruler, has many tutorials on how to use them that are extremely helpful. I also cut a few other sizes right now for some specific scrappy quilt projects I am working on (and I need a ton of variety for them).

[@julias.8236]

I fold my scraps nicely and store them Marie Kondo Style in a box so that I can see them. I do not like precutting them since I use a wide variaty of sizes and like sampler blocks. From the crumbs I save I just made strips on adding maschine tape and sewed it into a rainbow spiral. It amazed me, that a 1m by 1.2m quilt came out of the crumbs from my small metal box I threw the crumbs into. Any offcuts too small for piecing go into a big pillow what is sewn shut and goes to an animal shelter as soon as its two third to three quarter filled.

[@amydement.]

Such great plans! It’s amazing how far the fabric goes. Thanks for watching.

[@lynnhunger1668]

Hi Amy, I'm a Bonnie Hunter scrap cutter . I take all scraps offered, but I am drowning in material (mostly unapologetically)😅. Yes I use them,but in all honesty it would take another millennia to use it all. I said something to a quilty friend about destashing and my daughter said noooooo😂 yes we have another quilter in the fold

[@amydement.]

😍😍😍 awesome! Thanks for watching!!

[@marlenearcelay4724]

❤I love my scraps and I use them into scrappy beautiful quilts

[@amydement.]

♥️♥️♥️

[@barbarahopkins5845]

I cut my scraps in the same sizes plus 6.5 in! I put 5 in squares in leftover diswasher pod containers, sorted into lights/darks. Now I see the value of the stripology ruler! I'm buying it today!

[@amydement.]

Awesome! That ruler is an investment, but one I use all the time. Be sure and check out GE Designs KZbin channel or website for all her tips and tricks. I hope you love it. Thanks for watching!

[@lauriemullins8140]

Yes I use all my scraps. The tiny, tiny bits of all my sewing go into a pillow case, when it's full I stitch it up and give it to a friend with an animal or donate to Goodwill and label as a washable pet bed. I precut other pieces as you do 10", 5" and strips. I agree with you when I started keeping them in sizes I use them a lot. I very rarely buy fabric I use what I have and enjoy the scrappy look. I love the books Scrap Theraphy and have server of Joan Fords books. They include lots of patters for precuts.

[@amydement.]

I’ll have to check out those books they sound great. Thanks for sharing!!

[@gilliantangen3717]

Fabulous idea! I have 4 boxes under my pressing table that I haven’t looked at in over a year…ugh. I will try your technique after the holidays when I’m done with the gifts I’m making now 👍. Thank you for your help

[@amydement.]

You can do it! Have fun and only do what works for you!!

[@rhondamoore9842]

When I started quilting just a few years ago, I started with scraps my friend gave me. I still keep and use my scraps! I have them loosely sorted by color, but not cut apart. I’m going to give your method a try!

[@amydement.]

Sounds great. I hope it works for you and if it doesn’t don’t be afraid to change methods! Thanks for watching!

[@bitsnharry]

Oh my goodness! I never thought to separate them into like size stacks until the other day but I certainly was not as organized as you about it. I’m just thrilled to death to have seen this because I have a lot of scraps! I do have some Accu quilt dies but I don’t have the strip -Ology ruler. I have been quoting for so long and it never occurred to me to separate the m into like size stacks. I feel kind of like that VA commercial that used to be on where they whack themselves in the head! Thank you so much! I have a ton of men’s shirts that I have taken apart and this will definitely make that easier.😅

[@amydement.]

I'm so glad it helped! Now you'll be scrapping like a speed racer! Thank you for watching.

[@myrahaws5148]

This is by far the best how to process scrap fabric video i have watched. All the other ones say to cut the scaps tp your desired size??? I dont know what my desired size is. But you explained that by using pre cut sizes because there are many pre cut patterns just clicked in my brain. Thank you.

[@amydement.]

Oh I am so glad it was useful! Thanks so much for watching and sharing!

[@carolentringer8836]

Love your glasses and your hair color and your zippiness and your gentle voice and your sense of humor. Oh, and your content!

[@amydement.]

😊 thank you

[@tracystrobel1065]

Yes this is how I do mine too. Also during the pandemic (as a foodserver i was off work for 4 months so i made the best of it) the only thing i do different is when i cut my 5 in strips i leave them whole in case i need a extra 2.5 strip so i dont cut them into squares. I love the bins from Target for the 10 in squares and i have 6 that are full and have no need to buy another precut bundle in my life but cant help it cuz they are so pretty haha

[@amydement.]

I'm sorry you were out of work - been there, but I'm kind of glad it's not just me ;-)

[@tracystrobel1065]

@@amydement. thank you, it wasnt bad cuz we all got unemployment so the down time was what we all as quilters have waited for lol im trying to get the sew jo this week cuz like you a couple weeks again I lost my sweet fur baby. So hopefully this weekend i will feel like being in my sewing room 💚

[@amydement.]

Oh. I’m sorry. It’s hard to adjust to a new normal. Hugs to you!

[@tracystrobel1065]

@@amydement. yes the quiet time is the worst. He was the only dog in our home. 💚🐶

[@ravine306]

Great ideas for processing scraps. Thx

[@amydement.]

Glad you like them! Thank you.

[@cindywagner4623]

Not out of control, I see color bins in order. Neatly in place.

[@amydement.]

I like to refer to it as semi-controlled chaos! 😜

[@barbarasinopoli7690]

I love scraps! When I don’t have enough I buy scrap packs, and I collect scraps from friends who are sick of theirs. Great video! I have an accumulator but didn’t realize there was a square die for 2.5” squares. I will definitely get one! I just subscribed and am looking forward to your other videos

[@amydement.]

Thank you!!! The 2.5” multiple die is a well used one in my collection.

[@AnaRodriguez-g5r]

If you have cats, you can use the long unusable pieces to make tassels for them to play. Tie them together to make toys or tie them to a long piece of fabric to make a toy to play with them.

[@amydement.]

Oh yes, I will thanks. they love that! Thank you for watching.

[@pattiecoxey]

I do use scraps but I try to incorporate them into the quilt they came from first. Either the front, border or back of the quilt they came from. I just don't have alot of extra room for more boxes😅. Good luck!

[@amydement.]

Thanks for sharing!

[@HelenKoenig-i6e]

I love my scraps And I Definitely Use them and have made most of my More than 70 something quilts with them. I sort my scraps into plastic shoe boxes of squares and another of the same size in strips. Sizes used are (1) over 4", (2) 3 1/2 inch blocks and strips, (3)3 " blocks and strips, (4) 2 1/2" blocks and strips, (5)2" blocks and strips, (6)1.5 inch blocks and strips, (7) strings, (8) confetti bits or fabric t that is too small for strings and can go into ""made" fabric. I usually don't sort into colors because when a box is full (and about to burst) it's time to make a quilt!

[@amydement.]

That's a great method! 😊♥️♥️

[@KelleysQuiltsandCruises]

Thanks for the tips Amy. I am revising my scrap process and I am using the rainbow string quilt as an excuse to do it. I’ll dig into it more when I delve into the stash to get green strips.

[@amydement.]

Awesome!!

[@melimsah]

I love making selvage string squares. Haven't made any quilts out of the squares yet but the process and look makes my brain hum happily

[@amydement.]

I’m itching to make more!!