When we quilters make a quilt we also create a lot scraps—it’s seems to be a never ending cycle. Other than making scrappy quilts, there’s always the question of what to do with scraps, especially if they’re not very wide. While scrolling Pinterest, I found the answer—a rag wreath.
Not only are they pretty, they’re easy and fun, and they use up a lot of scraps! What I especially like about this project is anything goes…from the wreath size to the color scheme. There are plenty of options, too. You can make it all one color, make one for a particular holiday or season or create a completely scrappy one using what’s on hand.
To get started, choose a wreath frame (one with 4 wires) and gather scraps.
Because I’d never made one before, I needed to know what else was involved so I watched a few YouTube videos. After that, I decided on the 12″ size because making an 18″ wreath would have required more strips than I had and I didn’t want to create even more scraps. 😉 Also, 12″ would be better suited for a 30″ interior door.
I purchased the frame at Michael’s for $3.99 + tax. Through videos I found others went to the dollar store and got theirs for a dollar!
YouTube makers offered different suggestions on strip size. I opted for 1 1/4″ wide by 8″ long.
They also showed various methods of tying on the strips. I decided to go with the most popular way that’ll give the fullest wreath. Here’s how: tie one strip into a knot over two pieces of metal, tying on one side, then the opposite, then tying one in the middle. This process continues within each frame section.
Here’s what the back looks like.
Mine has several different fabrics (from quilts made long ago) giving it plenty of color.
All in all, I’d say it took me the better part of a day to make this from start to finish. And how many strips did it take you ask? 190. That’s a lot of strips!
Since I enjoyed this project, I decided to make a larger one in red, white and blue for the summer holidays. This time I went to the Dollar Tree and purchased a 14″ frame for $1.25. 🙂
I cut my strips from left over fat quarters, 2 1/2″ strips and yardage. Because I was using only two colors that had prints, I opted for at least 6 different kinds from the red and blue fabrics. I used all solids for the white. I think it ended up with a nice variety without too much repeat. This wreath was a bit larger than the other; totaling 232 strips!
I enjoyed watching these wreaths come together, and it was a pretty relaxing project to do. It’d also be a good one to take on the go. If you’re ever in need of a fun, handmade gift, I think a recipient favorite-colored wreath would be an excellent choice.
Monday Morning Designs 