small sewing projects

45 Small Sewing Projects to Make and Sell (Using Fabric Scraps)

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Do you have piles of fabric scraps that are just too pretty to throw away? You keep saving them, thinking you might use them someday, but they just keep piling up, taking up space and collecting dust.

I’ve been there.

As someone who loves sewing and can’t resist cute prints and soft textures, I ended up with boxes full of scraps. I felt guilty about tossing them, but I was completely overwhelmed by the idea of turning them into something useful.

That’s when I started experimenting with small sewing projects.

sewing crafts to sell

Not only did I find a fun way to use my fabric stash, but I also discovered that many of these handmade items sell surprisingly well online and at local craft fairs. These projects are ideal for anyone who wants to create beautiful things from leftovers—and perhaps even earn some money while doing so.

Today, I’m sharing some easy and creative small sewing projects you can make with fabric scraps. Each project is beginner-friendly, practical, and totally sellable. Whether you’re looking for sewing ideas to sell or just want to enjoy a satisfying DIY afternoon, you’re in the right place.

Small Sewing Projects

Fabric Bookmarks

These are perfect for book lovers and can be customized with patterns, ribbons, or embroidery.

fabric bookmarks

How to Make:

  1. Cut two fabric pieces measuring 6″ x 2″.
  2. Cut a piece of fusible interfacing the same size and iron it onto one of the fabric pieces.
  3. Place the two fabric pieces right sides together and sew around the edges, leaving a small gap.
  4. Turn the bookmark right side out.
  5. Topstitch all around to close the gap and finish the edges.

Scrunchies

These trendy accessories are always in demand and can be made in all kinds of prints.

fabric scrunchies

How to Make:

  1. Cut fabric to 3″ x 20″ and a piece of elastic to 8″.
  2. Fold the fabric lengthwise with right sides facing in.
  3. Sew the long edge, creating a tube.
  4. Turn the fabric right side out.
  5. Thread the elastic through the tube and stitch the ends together.
  6. Hand-stitch the opening closed.

Fabric Coasters

Perfect for protecting surfaces and adding a handmade touch to your home or gift baskets.

fabric coasters

How to Make:

  1. Cut two fabric squares (4.5″) and one square of batting.
  2. Layer the fabrics: two fabric squares right sides together, batting on top.
  3. Sew around the edges, leaving a 1″ opening.
  4. Turn right side out.
  5. Press and topstitch around the edge to close the gap and secure layers.

Key Fob Wristlets

Great for keys, ID badges, or just to make a fashion statement.

key fob wristlets

How to Make:

  1. Cut fabric and interfacing to 2″ x 12″.
  2. Iron interfacing onto the back of the fabric.
  3. Fold the long edges toward the center, then fold in half again.
  4. Sew down both long edges.
  5. Add hardware using pliers or a key fob kit.

Lavender Sachets

These smell amazing and are a lovely addition to drawers, closets, or gifts.

lavender sachet

How to Make:

  1. Cut two 4″ squares of fabric.
  2. Sew three sides, right sides together.
  3. Turn the pouch right side out.
  4. Fill with dried lavender.
  5. Sew the opening closed.

Fabric Bunting Flags

Ideal for party decor or room accents.

fabric bunting flags

How to Make:

  1. Cut triangle shapes from fabric.
  2. Cut matching interfacing for stiffness (optional).
  3. Sew two triangles together, right sides in.
  4. Turn and press.
  5. Attach to bias tape or ribbon and sew along the top.

Reusable Makeup Pads

Eco-friendly and a great seller!

How to Make:

  1. Cut two circles (3″) from soft cotton or flannel.
  2. Sew right sides together, leaving a gap.
  3. Turn, press, and topstitch.

Mini Zipper Pouches

Great for coins, earphones, or lip balm.

How to Make:

  1. Cut two outer and two lining fabrics.
  2. Sandwich the zipper between one outer and one lining.
  3. Repeat on the other side.
  4. Sew all around, leaving a gap in the lining.
  5. Turn right side out and sew the gap.

Coffee Cup Sleeves

Perfect for hot drinks and great gift items.

How to Make:

  1. Use a template or sleeve from a coffee shop as a pattern.
  2. Cut fabric and interfacing.
  3. Layer and sew, adding Velcro or a button closure.

Fabric Luggage Tags

Stylish and practical travel accessories.

Fabric Headbands

Cute and practical, fabric headbands are great for all ages and easy to make in bulk.

How to Make:

  1. Cut fabric 4″ x 18″ and elastic 4″ long.
  2. Fold fabric lengthwise, right sides together.
  3. Sew the long edge, turn right side out, press.
  4. Insert elastic at each end and stitch in place.
  5. Fold raw edges in and sew ends together.

Cord Organizers

Perfect for tidying phone chargers, USB cords, and headphones.

How to Make:

  1. Cut fabric and interfacing to 3″ x 5″.
  2. Iron interfacing onto fabric.
  3. Fold in half lengthwise, right sides together.
  4. Sew, turn, press, and topstitch.
  5. Add a snap or Velcro closure.

Pocket Tissue Holders

A handy and thoughtful gift or stocking stuffer.

How to Make:

  1. Cut fabric 6.5″ x 5.5″.
  2. Fold short edges to the middle, overlapping slightly.
  3. Sew both sides, turn right side out.
  4. Insert mini tissue pack.

Fabric Book Covers

Reusable and protective—great for journals or schoolbooks.

How to Make:

  1. Measure your book’s width and height.
  2. Cut fabric accordingly, adding 1” seam allowance.
  3. Hem the short edges.
  4. Fold ends to form pockets, sew top and bottom edges.

Eye Pillows

Perfect for relaxation and spa gifts.

How to Make:

  1. Cut two rectangles (4″ x 10″).
  2. Sew around three sides.
  3. Fill with flaxseed and lavender.
  4. Stitch closed.

Fabric Envelopes

Stylish way to gift money, cards, or notes.

How to Make:

  1. Cut envelope shape from fabric and interfacing.
  2. Fuse interfacing.
  3. Fold and sew edges.
  4. Add a button or Velcro closure.

Quilted Mug Rugs

A mix between a coaster and placemat—great scrap buster.

How to Make:

  1. Piece scraps together into a 5″ x 7″ rectangle.
  2. Add batting and backing.
  3. Quilt as desired and bind edges.

Sunglasses Case

Keeps shades safe and scratch-free.

How to Make:

  1. Cut two outer and two lining pieces (4″ x 8″).
  2. Add interfacing.
  3. Sew around with a small curve at top corners.
  4. Leave a gap in lining to turn.
  5. Turn and topstitch.

Fabric Baskets

Great for storing craft supplies, bathroom items, or toys.

How to Make:

  1. Cut two outer and two lining fabric pieces plus interfacing.
  2. Sew outer and lining separately.
  3. Attach base, then join together.
  4. Turn and topstitch the rim.

Baby Bibs

A favorite at craft fairs and baby showers!

How to Make:

  1. Use a simple bib pattern.
  2. Cut one fabric and one absorbent backing.
  3. Sew right sides together, leave a gap.
  4. Turn, topstitch, and add snaps or Velcro.

Chapstick Holders

Clip onto bags for easy access!

How to Make:

  1. Cut 2.5″ x 5″ fabric, fold lengthwise.
  2. Sew along the edge.
  3. Turn, press, and fold the bottom to create a pocket.
  4. Stitch sides and attach keyring.

Phone Stand Pillow

Hands-free screen viewing made adorable.

How to Make:

  1. Cut triangle shape or use a template.
  2. Sew three sides.
  3. Fill with rice and polyfill.
  4. Sew the opening shut.

Fabric Wallets

Minimalist wallets for cards and cash.

How to Make:

  1. Cut exterior, interior, and interfacing.
  2. Add card slots by folding small pieces.
  3. Layer and sew all pieces, turn, topstitch.

Pencil Roll-Ups

Perfect for kids, artists, and students.

How to Make:

  1. Cut backing and inner fabric.
  2. Add narrow pockets for pencils.
  3. Fold, sew, and add ribbon to tie.

Fabric Flower Brooches

Stylish accessories for clothing or bags.

How to Make:

  1. Cut fabric circles.
  2. Fold into petals and stitch into a flower.
  3. Add a button center and brooch pin.

Mouse Pads

Custom and comfy, a thoughtful work-from-home item.

How to Make:

  1. Cut a circle or rectangle.
  2. Fuse fabric to felt or foam backing.
  3. Topstitch the edges.

Potholders

Always useful in the kitchen and easy to personalize.

How to Make:

  1. Cut fabric, batting, and Insul-Bright.
  2. Layer, quilt, and bind the edges.
  3. Add a loop to hang.

Fabric Coin Purse

Chic and textured, these little purses are a hit!

How to Make:

  1. Cut exterior, lining, and interfacing.
  2. Add a zipper.
  3. Sew around, leaving lining gap.
  4. Turn and stitch closed. Also, add a zip.,

Dog Bandanas

Pet lovers will adore these!

How to Make:

  1. Cut triangle shapes with folded edge.
  2. Hem all sides.
  3. Add a snap or slot for collar.

Reusable Snack Bags

Eco-friendly and fun for school lunches.

How to Make:

  1. Cut fabric and waterproof liner.
  2. Sew three sides.
  3. Add Velcro or zipper.

Drawstring Bags

Versatile and reusable—great for gifting too.

How to Make:

  1. Cut two fabric rectangles.
  2. Sew sides and bottom.
  3. Fold top edge to form a casing.
  4. Thread in the drawstring.

Christmas Ornaments

Perfect seasonal sellers!

How to Make:

  1. Cut shapes like stars or hearts.
  2. Sew and stuff.
  3. Decorate with buttons, ribbon, or embroidery.

Pin Cushions

Essential for any sewing kit!

How to Make:

  1. Cut two 4″ squares.
  2. Sew around, leave a gap.
  3. Turn and fill with stuffing or crushed walnut shells.
  4. Sew closed.

Wrist Pin Cushions

Handy and wearable version of a pin cushion.

How to Make:

  1. Make a small cushion as above.
  2. Attach to a fabric-covered elastic band.
  3. Sew securely.

Pocket Hot Packs

Warm and cozy in winter!

How to Make:

  1. Cut two 5″ x 5″ fabric pieces.
  2. Sew three sides.
  3. Fill with rice.
  4. Stitch closed.

Reusable Hand Warmers

Smaller than hot packs, perfect for coat pockets.

How to Make:

  1. Same process as above but use 3″ squares.
  2. Microwave for 20–30 seconds to warm.

Napkin Sets

Elegant and eco-friendly.

How to Make:

  1. Cut 12″ or 18″ squares.
  2. Hem all sides or use a serger.
  3. Tie in a set of four for gifting.
small sewing projects

Fabric Bracelets

Trendy and fun for kids or boho looks.

How to Make:

  1. Use long narrow strips.
  2. Add snaps or Velcro closures.
  3. Embellish with charms or embroidery.

Ribbon Bookmarks

A twist on the fabric bookmark!

How to Make:

  1. Use ribbon with sewn fabric ends.
  2. Add charm or button at one end.
  3. Stitch a small elastic loop on the other.

Placemats

Functional and perfect for gift sets.

How to Make:

  1. Cut two 12″ x 18″ fabric pieces and one batting.
  2. Quilt layers.
  3. Bind the edges neatly.

Travel Jewelry Roll

Perfect for organizing earrings, rings, and necklaces.

How to Make:

  1. Cut outer, lining, and pocket fabrics.
  2. Add zippered sections and padding.
  3. Sew, turn, and add tie or button closure.

Pet Bow Ties

Stylish little accessories for cats or dogs!

How to Make:

  1. Cut rectangles, fold and sew into a bow.
  2. Attach an elastic loop to slide over a collar.

Mini Tote Bags

Cute, quick, and practical!

How to Make:

  1. Cut front, back, and straps.
  2. Sew sides and bottom.
  3. Box corners for depth.
  4. Attach straps and topstitch.

Fabric Magnets

Fun to decorate fridges or lockers.

How to Make:

  1. Cut small fabric shapes.
  2. Glue onto button covers or wooden pieces.
  3. Add magnet on the back.

Fabric Gift Tags

Adorable and reusable, these add charm to any gift wrap.

How to Make:

  1. Cut tag shapes from fabric and fusible interfacing.
  2. Iron interfacing to wrong side of fabric.
  3. Sew edges or use pinking shears for a decorative look.
  4. Punch a small hole and add ribbon or twine.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fun way to clean up your sewing space, get creative, and maybe even make some money, these small sewing projects are the way to go.

Each one uses minimal fabric and can be customized endlessly to match your style—or your customer’s!

Start with what you have.

Use those pretty scraps you’ve been holding onto. Turn them into scrunchies, bookmarks, pouches, or even gift tags. Whether you’re making items to sell, gift, or simply enjoy, your fabric scraps are full of possibilities.

Let your imagination stitch up something beautiful today. You’ll be surprised by what you can create with just a few scraps and a little love.

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to pin it and share it with your friends.

small sewing projects

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