Projects from Leftover Fabric

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

01 Mar 2006 12:30 PM

Whether you are looking for some additional artwork or you just need a way to tie in other items in a particular space, you can make great pieces from leftover fabrics.

Wall Art

Start by sketching a design onto paper. Cut each section out and use the paper pieces as patterns. Trace each shape onto the fabric and cut them out. You can use one or many different fabrics. When cutting out the fabric pieces, stay outside of the lines, leaving about ¼" of extra fabric around the edges to make attaching the pieces easier.

Stitch the pieces together or attach them with fabric glue. When the design has had a chance to dry, hem the edges or stretch the piece around an old frame or canvas and staple the edges to the back of the frame. You can also place the art piece inside a frame if desired, or simply hem the edges and add some decorative trim.

Alternatively, you can cover a frame or canvas with leftover fabric or wallpaper to make unframed contemporary art pieces that coordinate with other fabrics and treatments in the space.

Magazine Rack

Remove the glass from a sturdy 16" x 20" picture frame (picture frames are measured from inside the frame). Cut a piece of fabric large enough to cover the entire back of the frame. Staple the fabric in place, pulling it taut as you go, with the "good" side showing through the frame. If desired, you can staple a piece of cardboard behind the fabric to give it more support.

Cut another piece of fabric 4" longer and 4" wider than the first, fold it in half with the good side showing, and sew the open edges closed or secure them with seam tape. Lay this fabric across the lower half of the front of the frame and turn the entire thing over, folding a bit of fabric over the edges (make sure the bottom seam is facing down).

Staple the fabric in place, beginning in the center at the bottom of the frame. Make sure it is straight and continue stapling until the bottom edge is secure. Next, add a staple to the center of one side. Repeat on the other side, making sure each edge has an even amount of fabric (about 1"). Lean the finished rack up against the wall and put a few magazines in the pocket.

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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