Do you have a pile of fabric scraps that you just can’t bring yourself to throw away? Same! Instead of letting those little pieces of fabric sit in a drawer, why not turn them into something useful?
These scrappy bags and purses are the perfect way to use up leftover fabric and create something completely unique.
I originally put together this roundup because I desperately needed a new church bag. It had been on my to-do list for months, but somehow there were always approximately 47 other things that needed to be done first.
So rather than showing you the bag I didn’t make, I decided to round up some seriously creative DIY bags and purses made with fabric scraps instead!
If you love sewing, quilting, or finding creative ways to use leftover fabric, you’re going to want to save this list.
Why Make a Scrappy Bag?
One of the best things about making a bag from fabric scraps is that you don’t need a giant piece of coordinating fabric.
In fact, the more mismatched the fabrics, the more fun the finished bag can be!
Scrappy sewing projects are also a great way to use:
- Leftover quilting fabric
- Fabric scraps
- Fat quarters
- Old fabric pieces
- Small pieces from previous sewing projects
- Favorite fabrics you don’t want to throw away
- Fabric from old projects
And because you’re mixing fabrics, there is no pressure to make everything match perfectly.
Scrappy Bags Are Perfect for Quilters
If you’re a quilter, chances are you already have a collection of fabric scraps waiting for a project.
A scrap fabric bag is a great way to turn those leftovers into something you can actually use.
You can combine different colors, patterns, and textures to make a one-of-a-kind purse or tote bag.
And don’t worry if your fabric stash doesn’t coordinate. That’s part of the charm!
Patchwork Purses and Bags
One of my favorite things about these projects is seeing how differently everyone uses fabric.
Some bags are bright and colorful, while others have a more traditional quilted look. Some use tiny scraps, while others combine larger pieces of fabric.
There are so many ways to create a DIY patchwork bag.
You can make:
- Patchwork purses
- Scrappy tote bags
- Quilted bags
- Fabric handbags
- Messenger bags
- Reusable shopping bags
- Small zipper bags
- Crossbody bags
The possibilities are pretty much endless.
Fabric Scrap Bag Ideas
Ready for some inspiration?
I’ve gathered a collection of creative scrap fabric bags and purses to get your sewing wheels turning.
There are so many clever ways to combine scraps into a beautiful finished bag.
(I wrote this blog post in 2014 and as I’m updating it, there are lots of links have been lost! I want to give credit where credit is due so if I can correct any links- let me know!)
1. Colorful Scrappy Purses
One of the easiest ways to make a scrap bag feel intentional is to choose a color family and combine different prints within that palette.
You can use bright fabrics for a fun summer purse or darker colors for a bag you can carry all year.
2. Patchwork Tote Bags
A patchwork tote is a practical way to use up a collection of fabric scraps.
They’re also great for carrying books, groceries, craft supplies, or just about anything else you need to haul around.
Scrap embellishment: source
3. Quilted Fabric Bags
If you enjoy quilting, why not take that same technique and turn it into a bag?
A quilted bag can have a beautiful texture and gives you another reason to play with all those little fabric pieces
4. Scrappy Crossbody Bags
A small crossbody bag is another great option when you don’t want to make a large project.
Combine your favorite scraps to create a purse that’s completely your own.
5. Messenger Bags
Messenger-style bags can be both practical and fun. They’re a great project if you want something with a little more room than a small purse.
6. Clutch Bags
Clutch bags can be both practical and fun. Color coordinate it to your outfit. Perfect to grab for a night out on the town!
7. Covers
Creating a bag to fit your yoga mat, sewing supplies, vinyl cutter etc is the perfect way to haul your tools around in style!
Get the pattern for this scrappy bag
8. Drawstring bags
Perfect for throwing things in on the go! We use these for kids toys in the car! and these are all so cute!
9. Duffle Bag
Duffle bags are so great for overnight trips or to haul a lot of stuff in a cute bag! I love this version below!
Make Something With Your Fabric Scraps
Whether you have a huge fabric stash or just a small pile of leftovers, these scrap fabric bag ideas are a great place to start.
So grab your sewing machine, dig through your fabric scraps, and make yourself a new purse, tote, or bag.
You might even end up with a new favorite bag.
And if you don’t?
Well…at least you used some of the fabric stash.
That’s basically a win.
Save These Scrappy Bag Ideas!
Don’t forget to pin this roundup of DIY scrappy bags and purses so you can come back when you’re ready for your next sewing project.
Tammi Brown says
LOVE these!!