I use and talk about scraps all the time. But the little treasures that don't get mentioned much are the extra or orphan blocks that are leftover when I finish a project. There are a number of quilters who believe these have no value and just clutter up a sewing room. Some even toss them....Gasp!
I think they are little gems and I save them to use in future projects.
I even have a special box (okay, a Mickey Mouse suitcase) that I store
all of mine in. I keep any and all pieced blocks (even test blocks or blocks I made that did not come out to the correct size).
I keep HSTs, 4 patches and QSTs in their own separate plastic bags so they are easy to find. The rest of the blocks I just store flat within the case.
Then, when I need to make a quick gift, I can look through these treasures, pull some blocks and voila...the project is already half finished!
Such was the case in this table topper I just finished. These were some triangles left over from a Ballerina quilt (Jaybird Designs). I simply sewed them up, added some borders and in less than an hour, it was ready to quilt.
And a few more past projects from orphan blocks...
Turning leftover blocks into potholders are a great idea for holiday or hostess gifts. Orphan blocks are also a great starting point for snack mats and bags.
And I still enjoy every day the orphan block sampler I made from a number of leftover blocks.
So don't give up on those leftover pieced blocks. Just like those bits of scrap fabric, you can work them into great projects too.
Now it is time to share what you have been making with your scraps. Here are the details for linking up your projects:
- This linky party is for any scrappy project - It can be in-process or a finished piece.
- You can link up your blog post (not your homepage please) or Instagram photo from the past week that features your use of scraps.
- If you are linking to a blog post, I ask that you link back to my blog somewhere in your post. So if you are writing about scraps, just get into the habit of including a link as there will be a linky party available every week!
- If you are using Instagram, please use the hashtag #ohscrap.
- This is a party so remember to socialize and comment on the posts of others.
- Following my blog is not necessary but it sure would be great if you do!
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Linking up:
13 comments:
First of all, I love the storage suitcase for the orphan blocks. How awesome is that? But your idea to hold onto them to use when a quick and small gift is needed is sage and handy advice. :)
Found you a bit ago via RSC15. Just added a link for my February orphan project. Ha, no shortage of orphans and bits here!
Love your little suitcase! What a fun idea, and probably looks cute in your studio also! I still have blocks left from Winter in the Woods, even after making a pillow out of some. Maybe they would make good potholders, or at least coasters. Something to put on the list!
I feel much better about my orphan blocks now that I see you have a suitcase of them! lol But the projects to use them are great! I have been trying to use them in quilt backs, but this gives me some great ideas.
Orphan blocks are always put to good use at my house! I can't believe people don't use them.
Thanks for sharing your tips for orphan blocks.
People toss orphan blocks? Gasp indeed!! I always keep them around and use them. Thanks for sharing your tips.
-Soma
Good use of orphan blocks!
I love the table topper. While I have never tossed an orphan block, I have given some away. I did turn one of mine into a pillow for my niece. She loves it.
I love working with orphan blocks. I even have a tendency to purchase "scrap bags" with vintage orphan blocks in them when I find them at antique stores.
Neat! Those pot holders are so nice!
I'm not sure what I love more your orphans or that stinking cute suitcase! I don't have a lot of orphan blocks around. If I have extras I tend to sneak them into quilt backs or they are orphaned cause they are in a sad, desperately irreparable state so they may find them selves in the circular file :(
Thanks for hosting a great link up!
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