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Fabric Scrap Ornaments

A simple, sustainable way to transform old baubles into fabric scrap ornaments using leftover fabric strips. Perfect for using up scraps and adding a cosy handmade touch to your Christmas tree.
Active Time15 minutes
Yield: 1 bauble
Cost: $1

Equipment

  • Fabric scissors, pinking shears or scallop shears optional

Materials

  • Old baubles
  • Mod podge or fabric glue
  • Fabric scraps
  • Ribbon, twine or more fabric strips for hanging

Instructions

  • Make a small snip along the edge of your fabric, take hold of each side, and tear to create soft frayed strips around 1cm (½") wide. Cut or tear lengths long enough to wrap right around your ornament.
  • Remove the topper from the bauble so you can glue right up to the edges.
  • Brush a thin layer of Mod Podge onto a small section of the bauble, then press your first fabric strip into place, making sure it’s centred for a neat finish.
  • Continue adding glue and wrapping strips from one side to the other, overlapping them slightly to avoid gaps. Keep going until the bauble is fully covered. For the final gap, glue the last strip neatly over the top.
  • Trim away the original string. Thread a length of ribbon, twine, or a fabric strip around 30cm (12") through the loop on the topper. Tie a knot at the top, then press the topper back onto the ornament.

Notes

  • Mod Podge dries clear and gives smooth results; fabric glue offers extra hold.
  • Lightweight cotton and linen work especially well for this project.
  • Mix colours and prints for a sweet patchwork look.