I cannot count my day complete
'Til needle, thread and fabric meet.
~Author Unknown

Sharing a common thread with those who love the art of hand embroidery

Friday, October 17, 2008

What to do with all of those strings

Over the years, I have been given many left over supplies from friends who have sewn different projects. From scraps of material, unfinished embroidery kits, and lots and lots of half used skeins of yarn.
These left over skeins are never enough to make a big afghan out of and sometimes, the color lot is no longer available. However, I think it's a shame not to use them, especially if they are a pretty color.
If you have the same kind of stash and if you like to crochet. Those half used skeins and little lengths of string of yarn can be used to make really nice throw rugs. These little rugs are perfect for standing on at the sink while doing dishes, to place in front of the door on a rainy day to catch dirty feet coming in, or in front of a fireplace for your favorite pet to sleep on snug and warm. These don't have rubber backing, so on smooth surfaces they can slip, so if you do make rugs, be careful where you place them. I don't follow a pattern, although you can find quite a few if you search. I simply, chain a chain the length I like, then I either single crochet, double crochet or use any other crochet stitch to make the rug. I make it as long and as wide as I like. It is a fast project and one that can be used over and over. They are also machine washable and very durable. So grab a hook and enjoy yourself this weekend. Do any of you have any other ideas that you use your scraps for? I would love to hear!


6 comments:

Flower said...

Your little carpets are a great idea!! I have some yarn scraps and my remedy is to make balls out of them and put them in a pretty basket. Someday I may actually make something usefull but in the meantime the balls add color to my room!

drafter29 said...

I like the rug idea. You can get latex rug backing at Wal-mart, to keep them in place.

If I had time to crochet, or knit, I'd do squares of different kinds of stitches, for a sampler afghan.

Paula said...

I have my fabric stash organized with all the little strips and remnants on the top shelf.... and I use them occaisonally for something, but for the most part, they just lay there!! I really should clean some of them out, but I hate to throw anything away!

Vintage Linen Treasures said...

Great idea about making little rugs out of them. I was going to suggest to get those latex under-layments that will help keep them from sliding, but I see that Jane beat me to it.
Blessings,
Patricia :o)

Linda said...

This is a neat idea. I just finished a scarf and have some left plus lots more tucked a way. Thanks for the suggestion....hugs, Linda

Yesteryear Embroideries said...

Thanks everyone, and thanks Jane and you, Patricia for the latex rug backing idea. blessings, Kathleen