Patterns, patchworks and projects
As promised in this post, I’m giving away a copy of Quilting Makes the Quilt book. Though published back in the 90’s, it’s still worthy of a place in your craft library. Why else would it still be listed on Amazon’s Best Seller list?
To get a chance to win, leave a comment on this post and tell me something about yourself and your creative life. Contest ends August 14, 2015, 11:59 PM, CST. Only contiguous U.S. and Canada entrants allowed.
Good luck!
If you’ve ever stood in your sewing room staring at a basket of fabric scraps thinking, “I should do something with these,” this article is for you.
Scrap quilts aren’t just practical — they’re often the most joyful quilts we make. They’re forgiving, colorful, and deeply personal. Every leftover piece carries a memory from a past project.
If you’re searching for the best quilts to make using your scraps, this guide goes beyond inspiration. We’ll talk about which patterns truly work for scraps, how to keep them looking cohesive, how much fabric you actually need, and which scrap sizes suit which designs.
Let’s turn that scrap pile into something intentional.
Scrap quilts continue to trend because they:
Unlike tightly planned quilts, scrap quilts allow flexibility. Slight variations in tone, scale, and print aren’t flaws — they’re part of the charm.
And for many of us, they’re emotionally satisfying. That tiny floral from a baby quilt? It shows up again in a new design.
Not every quilt pattern works well with mixed fabrics.
The best scrap quilt patterns share these traits:
The structure holds the design together while the scraps bring personality.
If a pattern depends on exact color placement or large uninterrupted shapes, it’s usually not ideal for scraps.
This is the ultimate scrap quilt.
Half square triangles (HSTs) use small squares and create endless layout possibilities.
Why it works beautifully for scraps:
You can create:
If you’re unsure what to do with your scraps, start here.
If your scraps are small and irregular, crumb quilting is magic.
Instead of cutting into precise shapes, you sew scraps together randomly into larger “slabs,” then trim into blocks.
Why crumb quilts shine:
Crumb quilts look chaotic mid-process — but once assembled, they’re surprisingly cohesive.
String quilts use narrow strips sewn onto a foundation.
Perfect for:
You can sew strips diagonally, vertically, or randomly. When blocks are squared up, the quilt looks deliberate.
String quilts are fantastic for beginners because seam accuracy is less stressful.
A true classic.
Log cabin blocks use strips built around a center square.
Why it works for scraps:
Keep your center squares consistent for visual balance.
Simple.
Reliable.
Endlessly adaptable.
Nine patch blocks use small squares — perfect for 2½” or 3½” scrap cuts.
Why it works:
Alternate with solid blocks or add sashing for structure.
If you have medium-sized scraps, flying geese blocks are ideal.
Scrappy geese with a consistent background fabric prevent visual overload.
They create strong directional movement across a quilt top.
This block balances structure with randomness.
Scrappy chain units combined with solid blocks create breathing space.
It’s a beautiful option if you want scrap charm without chaos.
Sometimes the simplest layouts are the most powerful.
Equal-sized squares in alternating placement create a bold grid.
This design works best when you pay attention to light vs dark balance.
Scrappy star points paired with solid backgrounds create stunning contrast.
You can keep star centers consistent for cohesion.
It feels classic but works beautifully in modern color palettes.
Strip-based and fast to assemble.
Rotate blocks to create zigzags or woven effects.
This quilt is ideal for 2½” strip scraps.
If you love tiny pieces, this is your project.
Small squares sewn into a dense grid create a pixelated effect.
Time-consuming — but breathtaking.
Made entirely from half square triangles.
It creates a shattered-glass pattern that looks far more complex than it is.
High-contrast scraps work best here.
For confident quilters.
This design uses small strips in layered rotation around a center.
It’s intricate and dramatic — perfect for organized scrap bins.
Use scrap blocks surrounded by solid white or low-volume background.
The empty space allows the scrap sections to shine without overwhelming the eye.
Combine multiple scrap-friendly blocks into one quilt.
It keeps things interesting and prevents fabric fatigue.
Perfect if you enjoy variety.
This is where many scrap quilts struggle.
Here’s how to maintain cohesion:
Even the wildest scrap quilt benefits from repetition.
Instead of dumping everything into one pile, try sorting by:
This makes choosing patterns easier.
If your scraps are mostly small:
Choose crumb, nine patch, or postage stamp.
If mostly strips:
Choose string, log cabin, rail fence.
If medium cuts:
Flying geese or HSTs are ideal.
One common question is:
“How many scraps do I need for a quilt?”
Here’s a rough estimate for a throw-size scrap quilt (60″ x 72″):
Because scraps vary in size, it’s better to measure by total coverage rather than count.
The secret to beautiful scrap quilts isn’t matching fabrics — it’s controlling value.
Value contrast (light vs dark) matters more than print style.
If everything is medium tone, the quilt will look flat.
Make sure you have:
Squint at your layout. If shapes disappear, you need stronger contrast.
Scrap quilts aren’t just practical.
They’re memory quilts without trying to be.
That floral from your daughter’s skirt.
That neutral from a farmhouse pillow.
That bold print from a modern quilt you tried.
They all come together in one place.
That’s why scrap quilts feel layered with story.
The best scrap quilt isn’t the fanciest one.
It’s the one that uses what you already have.
Start simple.
Focus on contrast.
Trim carefully.
Trust the repetition.
Your scrap pile isn’t clutter.
It’s potential.
I would love to learn more about quilting from the “Quilting Makes the Quilt” book and appreciate a chance to win a copy. I am a fabricalcoholic and have been sewing since age 6. The most fun I had quilting was piecing a watercolor quilt. Still need to quilt it though.
I have just finished my first quilt, and I and I cannot wait to make another!! I’ve been reading up online to learn what I can. There’s a lot to learn, and I’m enjoying every minute of it!
I love to quilt it takes my mind off of the everyday stuff and puts me at peace with life
!I quilt, garment sew, craft, rock hound, prospector in his spare time !LOL, gardener.
I want to learn how to make a quilted art piece yet, I think this book would help me to improve my skills as a quilter. Thank you for the chance to win this book
I have made a few quilts but would love to learn more about how to quilt them together! Other than sewing, I love my 3 Poodles and gardening. It would be great to win this book!
I have only quilted wall hangings & table runners and that was just basic quilting. Would love to win a copy and become more knowledgeable and adventurous! I have been sewing for over 50 years, but not quilting that whole time. Got bit by the quilting bug from my Mom who sadly has passed away. I keep doing it mostly to feel closer to her. Thanks for the opportunity.
book looks interesting, very colorful.
I’m just getting started with quilting.I finished what I call a “hankypanky” quilt which, after collecting 125 hankies, was hand quilted. Still need to finish completely with suggestions from my sister who is an avid quilter with some of the most beautiful quilts ever!
I’m not a big quilter, but have been trying to complete some quilt blocks that my mother started before she passed away.
Some blocks are just a couple years old, some are 10 – 15 years old. Then my sister-in-law machine quilts them. Some are saved for the next generation of kids or given away to the veteran s hospital or nursing home and used as lap quilts.
Thanks
Greetings from Montana! Love the inspiration of the surrounding Rocky Mts. for design, for color changes and fresh sweet air to breathe while designing! Thank You!
I enjoy piecing a quilt but not quilting it so much.
love doing all kinds of crafts including quilting always looking for new ideas
I too would love to win this quilt!! Whenever I am finished making a quilt top I am always stumped as to how to quilt it! This book sounds like it would help! Thanks for the chance!
Paulette
I love quilting, although I’m relatively new to it…..I’m still at the stage where I welcome any and all tips/techniques from more experienced quilters, so I would be very appreciative of this book, if I were lucky enough to win a copy 🙂
I became a self taught quilter a couple of years ago after buying a new Baby Lock. I use books and online resources for ideas and to learn techniques. So far I have made five quilts–one for myself and four for my grand-kids.
I’m making a quilt for myself. It is all purple prints. I’ve cut a gazillion five inch squares and now am ready to sew it together. Next thing is to figure out how to quilt it. That’s why I would like this book.
I’m currently a Country Girl who currently knits and crochets, and volunteers to teach a knitting and crochet class once a week. I’ve always wanted to quilt, and have dabbled in it, but really want to get my feet wet!! Even though this book is a few years old, those are the books to be cherished!! Most of the times, the older directions turn out to be the best, as well as sometimes the most detailed. Thank you for the great giveaway!!
I started quilting 2 years ago and am loving every moment of. I’m still learning and improving everyday.
I’m an eco quilter- I’m an avid quilter but I only use recycled and reclaimed fabrics, to add an extra challenge to my creative process! I could really learn from what this book has to offer!
I do just about every craft type out there, but sewing, especially quilts, is my favorite. Thank you for the opportunity to win this book!
I love to do just about every kind of craft, I own an etsy shop! and I love quilting and embroidery the most!
Hmmm..I have been sewing since I was 10 when my father gave my 2 brothers mini-bikes and I got a sewing machine. Boy, was I mad!!! It turned out to be the best present ever because I taught myself how to sew and even made my first pair of jeans and that machine lasted years longer than the mini-bikes! I have always been creative and love to dabble in all sorts of art forms.
Looking for new patterns. This would be great for my library.
I love to quilt but I also love birds, lots of birds. I live in NC so I am limited to just Ruby Throated Humming Birds but yesterday I had 50 on my front porch. Such a treat for me. The back yard is full of finches, cardinals, woodpeckers, bluebirds, you name it. I am a bird addict.
I would love to expand my quilting skills and i am sure this book would help. When not quilting, i can be found tatting or knitting or any variety of needlework. That is, when i am not spending time with my green winged macaw, named Murphy.
I am slightly above Beginner as far as quilting…tried a few small FMQ things with my reg. machine. would Love to learn more tho..& feel braver to quilt a big quilt! Thanks for chance to win this book! 🙂
I make a lot of quilts, and I do my own quilting. However, I need a lot more practice and ideas. I am always looking for tips and ideas. dahlgren0609 at gmail dot com
I really enjoy quilting or rather making the quilt top now when it comes to the quilting I am really intimidated one could say. I have quilted a couple of quilts and was not real happy with the outcome. I know that we are our own worst enemy when it comes to being critical. So I am happy to get knowledge everywhere and anywhere.
I tend to stop after I’ve created the top. I guess I don’t know what to do next. This book could help! Thank you for the opportunity to win!
I have been sewing since I made my first apron in 4-H, when I was eight years old. I love crafting, quilting, sewing, painting, beading, anything creative. I love to be inspired, and look for ideas everywhere.
I enjoy all different types of craft work. As far as quilting goes, I especially enjoy piecing the quilt top. But when it comes to binding and quilting, I am very intimidated by it all. I would love to win this book to not only add it to my library but to also expand my knowledge and skill base. Thanks so much for this opportunity.
My creative life started at the age of about 5, I would set on my Grandma’s lap at the treadle machine and sew, I progressed through 4-H, Home Ec., Prom Dresses, Baby Clothes and now I am a beginning Quilter! I love the creativity of quilting and learn something new with every project!
I knit, learning crochet, do some quilts, cross stitch, paint, craft etc. I like to say I’m a Jill of all crafts and Mistress of none!
This is The Book that got me into quilting. Can’t say enough good things about it ? If I win the giveaway,I’ll give it to my newbie quilting friend.
There aren’t many crafts I haven’t tried … or want to try. Thanks for the chance to win this great book
I love to make things. It makes my heart smile. I love fabric, but like working with other things too. I have been doing a lot of changes to our home by redoing furniture, lamps, new wall art, etc. But I also love to paint, sew, quilt, really just make anything.
New to quilting and would love to win the book. Used to sew but had medical problems and quit. Kept the medical problems but decided I would like to try quilting.
[email protected]
I always wanted to learn to quilt but I thought it would be to expensive. So when I turned 50 I decided it was time. And started out using other people’s scraps or thrifted material. My first quilt was totally thrifted material and it turned out beautiful. Very scrappy but beautiful .
I’m not a big quilter….yet! I’d like to make sure each of our kids get a quilt and then start working on making for grand babies to come!
I have been quilting off and on for about 7 yrs….I love the whole procedure from cutting to finished produce. I love to learn new things.
I love to sew and are new to quilting, would love to learn more!
Looks like a fine quilt book even though published a while back.
Deb. Agree it’s an oldie but goodie. The most valuable aspect of the book was being able to see 5 tops quilted differently. –Scarlett
I agree so much with the title of this book! I have been a quilter for 30 years and my skills in this area as well as imagination are sorely lacking! Now that I am retired I have time to work on improvement!