In the last part of our series, we want to look at what we can do with leftovers when sewing.
If you're working with A4 or A0 paper patterns, you're bound to have scraps. You can save these scraps and use them for alterations, for example. If you're extending a pattern and using paper to glue in, for example, you can put the scraps to good use.
You can also use pieces of the paper for notes or as strips (e.g., for labeling folders or bookmarks). The paper is also great for crafts. You can, for example, make your own confetti.
Fabric scraps don't have to go to the trash – there are many creative and sustainable ways to reuse them!
Donate
We prefer to donate larger fabric scraps to a kindergarten. They have a sewing group that sews amazing works of art from the fabric scraps. From small pillows to dolls and garlands, wonderful new things have been created from the leftovers. Just ask at the kindergartens and elementary schools in your area—many are happy to receive fabric donations.
Exchange
In many cities there are sewing groups and swap shops where fabrics can be exchanged.
Composting
Natural materials such as cotton or linen can be composted under certain conditions.
Here are some ideas for smaller fabric scraps.
Small fabric scraps are ideal for mending holes in clothing. You can also cut out appliqués like hearts, flowers, or stars from fabric scraps to add a personal touch to bags or clothing.
Or you can use the fabric scraps for the inside of pockets (e.g. on trousers or dresses) or for bias binding.
Discover why sewing is a sustainable hobby; and how it helps avoid overproductions and waste caused by fast fashion.
There are many ways to save materials and sew more sustainably at home. Using projector files or A0 plotting reduces paper waste, while recycled paper helps minimize printing impact. Eco‑friendly marking tools like tailor’s chalk avoid plastic waste, and old fabrics can be reused for test pieces. Thoughtful choices make sewing more resource‑efficient.
Discover how you can make sustainable fabric choices: Sustainable fabric choices help reduce waste and make handmade clothing last longer. High‑quality natural fibers like organic cotton, hemp, linen, wool, and lyocell are durable, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly. Conscious fabric shopping, using your existing fabric stash, and choosing certified materials (GOTS, OEKO‑TEX Made in Green, Fairtrade) all support more sustainable sewing practices.
If you want your handmade clothes to last, craftsmanship matters. The better the workmanship, the longer your garment will hold up. These sewing techniques help your clothes stay beautiful and durable — so you can enjoy them for years.
Learn how to reuse sewing leftovers sustainably. Paper scraps can be repurposed for pattern adjustments or crafts, while fabric scraps are perfect for DIY projects like scrunchies, coasters, bags, and patchwork. Larger pieces can be donated or exchanged, and natural fibers can even be composted. Upcycling, repairing, and creative reuse help reduce waste and make sewing more sustainable.
Which fabric is most sustainable for clothing?
Sustainable fashion doesn't start with design or production—it starts with the fabric. But which fabric is truly environmentally friendly? Between organic cotton, linen, hemp, and recycled polyester, it's easy to get lost. In this article, we take a look at different materials and clarify which fibers are particularly sustainable—and why.
