How to Make a Garland With Scrap Fabrics

Co-authored by Lois Wade

Last Updated: February 13, 2022 Approved

Do you need to recycle your left over bits of fabric? Is your fabric stash outgrowing its allotted storage space? This is an opportunity to up-cycle those fabric leftovers and decorate for holidays at the same time!

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Preparing the Scrap Fabric

1
Sort through your fabric stash.^{[1]
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- Coordinate the scraps by their color.
- Determine how much yardage you have. You will be able to make approximately 30 inches (76cm) of garland per yard (91cm) of fabric you have on hand.
- Choose 2 to 4 coordinating fabrics to use for your garland.
2
Prepare the fabric.
- If needed, wash the fabric. This step may only be needed if the intended fabric is dirty or smelly--such as those that are musty or reek of mothballs. Stained fabric usually can be used as the stained parts are usually simply not included.
- If needed, press the fabric smooth. This project will work with fabric that is not perfectly smooth, but creates a different look.
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3
Cut the fabric into strips. The strips should measure five inches long by one inch wide (12.5cm x 2.5cm). You can cut them longer if you wish, but you will need to cut them all the same length for best results.^{[2]
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- A rotary cutter and mat make this part of the project a breeze.
- You will need approximately 24 strips per linear feet of finished garland.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Making the Garland

1
Find the end of the twine. Tie a knot around 10 inches (25cm) from the end.
2
Select a fabric strip. Place it under the twine, ready for tying.
3
Tie the fabric strip to the twine on the side of the knot (described above) that is away from the end.^{[3]
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- Use a simple overhand knot for best results.
4
Slide the tied fabric gently against the knot in the twine. Then reach for your next piece of fabric and repeat.^{[4]
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5
Continue to tie strips down the length of the twine. Tie until you have reached the length you like or until you run out of fabric.^{[5]
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6
When you're satisfied with the length, simply tie a knot in the twine at the end of your fabric strips. Finish by cutting the end of the twine long enough to facilitate hanging.^{[6]
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Warnings

Use appropriate caution with edged tools.

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Things You'll Need

Fabric, preferably cottons
Rotary cutter and mat (optional, but they make the job a lot easier!)
Household cotton or jute twine. Rough texture is actually an advantage for this project, so don't pay extra for the smoother cordage.)
Scissors for cutting the twine