Last Minute Scrappy Gift Ideas
December is officially here, and if you’re still stitching up handmade gifts, don’t stress — scrappy sewing is the perfect way to create something meaningful and use up those beautiful leftover bits we all save.
Here are some quick, cozy, scrap-friendly projects you can finish in an evening — perfect for gifting, decorating, or adding that handmade touch to the holidays:
1. Mug Rugs
A charming little gift for teachers, coworkers, neighbors, and every coffee or tea lover on your list. Mug rugs are quick to sew, endlessly customizable, and the perfect project for using up those small but special fabric scraps. Pair one with a Mug and a packet of hot cocoa or a favorite tea for an extra-thoughtful touch.
TIP: Don’t forget that small blocks (6″–8″) make instant mug rugs with just a bit of quilting and binding. For even smaller blocks, trim them down into coasters.
2. Fabric Bookmarks
Slip one into a book, planner, or journal — these little pretties sew up in minutes and make wonderful stocking stuffers for readers of all ages. Mix fabric styles to match the recipient’s personality: florals for romantics, brights or novelty prints for kids, neutrals for the minimalist in your life.
TIP: If you have orphan foundation-pieced blocks or leftover string blocks, these can be trimmed into clever little bookmarks. Slip one into a book or planner as an easy, pretty stocking stuffer.
3. Scrappy String Ornaments
Turn leftover strips into something magical! These quilt-inspired ornaments bring texture, color, and a handmade heart to the Christmas tree. They’re lightweight, giftable, and a fantastic way to use even the narrowest strings. Make them in sets for teachers, coworkers, or ornament exchanges.
I have to admit I have never worked with string-style quilting. My patience may be tested a bit with it. But I do like the rustic, sometimes romantic look it can give the ornaments.
4. Patchwork Potholders
Functional and adorable — a true win-win. Potholders are perfect for mixing holiday prints, favorite scraps, or colors that match someone’s kitchen. Add a hanging loop for convenience, or stitch in fun quilting designs to make each one truly unique. Practical gifts are often the most loved!
TIP: Sturdy blocks — especially sampler or pieced blocks — make excellent hot pads. Add a layer of heat-resistant batting, some quilting, and a hanging loop. It’s fast, useful, and perfect for holiday gifting.
5. Mini Drawstring Bags
Sweet, simple, and always useful. These tiny bags can be filled with candy, sewing notions, gift cards, jewelry, or other tiny treasures. Plus, they’re reusable — making them a charming eco-friendly alternative to traditional gift wrap. They’re a great way to experiment with color combinations or feature a favorite holiday print.
Start Saving Scrappy Ideas!
Whether you’re sewing for friends and family or just enjoying some creative “me time,” scrappy projects are a perfect way to add a little handmade joy to the season. I finally created a Scrappy, last-minute gift idea board on Pinterest to have a place to save the projects I would like to do next year.
Take a couple of minutes (I have to limit my time – because all of a sudden two hours have passed)and do a quick search on Pinterest for quick and easy quilty gifts. There are so many ideas out there!
What scrappy gifts are you working on this month?
If you are looking for something to keep you busy, check out the Quilt Block Library or watch for the posts on the 2026 block of the month. Do you have a block that you would like to see in the 2026 BOM? Send me a message! If you want to be notified of website updates, sign up using the email addressbelow.
You can also join the Quilting With Tamara Facebook page. Please remember to answer all the questions; otherwise, I cannot approve you.
Until next time.
