Give your batting a new life: What to do with batting scraps from old quilting projects

Find what to do with batting scraps and how to repurpose those leftover batting pieces from old sewing projects. Transform them into something new and useful with these fun sewing ideas, make the most out of your stash and give your batting a new life!

Have you ever found yourself pondering over what to do with batting scraps from your old quilting projects? Well, fret no more! I’ve got some amazing ideas and creative solutions to help you repurpose and make the most out of those leftover batting scraps!

If you’re an avid sewer/quilter, you probably have a stash of leftover quilt batting scraps from various projects. Instead of letting it sit and collect dust, why not put it to good use? There are plenty of creative ways to repurpose leftover batting and give it a new life. In this article, we’ll explore some fun and useful sewing ideas that will help you make the most out of your leftover batting. And if you need more time to dedicate to your hobby, check out my tips for optimizing time in the sewing room and how to squeeze in sewing time whenever possible.

What to do with batting scraps

Here are some fun sewing ideas to repurpose and transform batting scraps into something beautiful and useful.

Make Coasters

If you have smaller pieces of leftover batting, you can use them to make coasters or pot holders. Simply cut the batting into desired shapes, such as circles or squares, and cover them with decorative stitching all over.

You can sew the edges for a more finished look or leave them raw for a rustic touch. You can use pinking shears to trim the edges just like I did for these scrappy bookmarks (which is also a good example of what to do with batting scraps)

These handmade coasters make great gifts and will add a personal touch to your home décor.

Sew batting scraps into frankenbatting

But wait! What is this “frankenbatting”, you ask? It’s a fun term used to describe batting scraps of different sizes, that are stitched together to create one larger piece. You can easily stitch together smaller pieces of batting in various sizes and shapes using a zigzag or decorative stitch, and then use it for various sewing projects such as table runners, potholders, trash cans, wall hangings for your sewing space, small crafts and much more.

Make sure all pieces have straight edges before binding together. If they are not straight, use a rotary cutter to trim the edges on a cutting mat.

I use frankenbatting in a lot of my projects (even the ones on this site) because I simply cannot throw away any scraps, of any kind. I’m a hoarder like that, I love scraps!

Tip: make your frankenbatting more durable by using fusible interfacing or hemming tape to join the batting scraps. Butt the leftover batting pieces together, don’t overlap. Add the fusible tapes over the joining line and press. Then sew a zig zag stitch over the interfacing/hem tape to reinforce the strips. A wide zigzag stitch should suffice.

Rustic potholders

Make some rustic potholders by layering a piece of frankenbatting between two pieces of fabric. Sew around the edges with an edgestitch or decorative stitching, quilt-as you prefer and add a hanging loop in one corner. Leave the edges raw for a rustic look. These potholders are not only functional but also eco-friendly, as they reduce waste by using leftover materials.

Create quilted wall art

Quilting is not just limited to bedspreads and blankets; you can also use it to create beautiful wall art for your sewing room. Cut your leftover batting into various shapes and sizes, then sew them together in a unique pattern. Add some fabric or paint accents, and frame the finished piece for a one-of-a-kind quilted wall hanging. This is a great way to add texture and color to your walls.

Or you can simply skip the fabric altogether! Join the batting scraps together using pretty decorative stitching with contrast thread to create unique designs. Then frame it and hang it on the wall for a modern, minimalist look.

Sew fabric bowls or baskets

Another fun sewing project that can be made with leftover cotton batting is fabric bowls or baskets. You can wrap the batting with strips of fabric then sew the strips to create a coiled basket. These bowls and baskets are perfect for storing small items, such as jewelry, keys, or office supplies.

You can even create mug rugs or floor rugs using this method!

Use it for mending or repairing

If you have small tears or holes in your clothing, instead of throwing them away, use leftover batting to patch them up. Cut a piece of batting slightly larger than the damaged area and fuse it or sew it to the inside of the garment. This will reinforce the fabric and make it last longer.

Design baby accessories

Create items for babies such as changing pads, burp cloths, baby mobile or play mats with the softness and cushioning of batting. For this you’ll have to mend batting scraps together first, using a zig zag stitch as described above. Then cut the batting to size and sandwich it between layers of durable, washable fabric. Not only will these items be gentle on a baby’s skin, but the added padding will also provide extra comfort and protection.

FAQ’s that you might find useful

But what to do with batting scraps that are very tiny?

There are so many creative ways to use small scraps of batting, and the possibilities are endless. Here are a few more ideas to help you make the most out of all those small pieces of batting:

• Stuff it into stuffed animals. One of the easiest ways to use up leftover batting is by stuffing the little trimmings into stuffed animals or soft toys. Whether you’re making them for your kids or as gifts, adding extra batting will make them more plush and huggable. You can also use batting as filling for other items like pillows, cushions, and decorative figures. This is a great way to save money on buying expensive stuffing materials and reduce waste.
• Make pin cushions or needle books. Cut out small squares of fabric and batting, sew them together and fill with tiny batting scraps for a functional and cute sewing accessory.
• Make padded hangers. Make a fabric “coat” for your plastic, wooden or wire hangers. Stuff with tiny batting pieces for a soft and cushioned hanger, perfect for delicate fabrics.
• Use it for insulation. If you’re into DIY home projects, leftover batting can be used as insulation in small areas like pet houses or for draft stoppers.
• Craft microwaveable heat packs. Leftover batting can be turned into heat packs. Simply cut two fabric pieces to your desired size, and sew around the edges, leaving an opening for turning it right side out. Fill with small strips of batting scraps. Once done, top-stitch the opening closed. These heat packs can be microwaved and used to relieve sore muscles, or kept in the freezer to use as a cold pack. Make sure you use fabric and batting that are microwave safe.
• Repurpose the little scraps as soundproofing for your home. Batting has excellent sound-absorbing qualities. If you have large amounts of batting scraps, use them as a layer of soundproofing in your home studio, or under a noisy appliance.

Are there any practical uses for batting other than sewing and quilting?

Absolutely! Here are a few more ideas to help you think outside the box:

• Use it as padding for shipping fragile items. Instead of buying expensive packing materials, use scraps of batting to protect delicate items during shipping.
• Make cat beds or pet mats. Cut and layer batting scraps with fabric to create cozy sleeping surfaces for your furry friends. Or stuff them with small batting scraps. It will provide both comfort and warmth for your pets.
• Create potpourri sachets. Fill small fabric pouches with batting and your favorite herbs or essential oils. Sprinkle essential oils over batting pieces. Tuck the pouches into drawers or hang in closets to keep clothes smelling fresh.
• Create draft stoppers for doors or windows. Fill a fabric tube with batting scraps and place it against the bottom of a door or window to keep drafts out.
• Use as insulation for gardening. Gather batting scraps around plant roots to help retain moisture and protect from extreme temperatures.

Don’t let your leftover batting go to waste! With a little creativity and some basic sewing skills, you can repurpose it into useful and beautiful items for your home or as gifts for others. There are endless possibilities when it comes to using batting scraps. So next time you have some leftover batting from a project, think outside the box and see what you can create!

Happy sewing!

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