Weekend Review: Sewing With Scraps

 

Sewing with Scraps / Birgitta Helmersson & Sam Grose
Quadrille, c2025.
192 p. 

I picked this one up as I'm a fan of both using up scraps and of Birgitta Helmersson's earlier work with zero waste patterns. I have to admit I didn't expect there to be so much quilting involved, but there are also other options included! 

There are 15 projects, and the book includes 3 downloadable pdf patterns for unisex designs, in sizes UK 6-30. They do include some more expected smaller projects as well, but the focus isn't on tiny accessories to use up little scraps, it's more combining those midsize chunks of odd sized garment leftovers into (mostly) new garments. There are images of some of the photos and the book's interior at Helmersson's website if you'd like a preview. 

The book is not entirely project based, however. They arrange it by technique, so there are ideas and instruction for patchwork & quilting, then strips, then collage/applique. These techniques could then be used in any way you see fit, really, for any of the projects in the book or any that you tackle on your own. They want the reader to learn new skills that can then be carried forward creatively. 

The 'strips' technique was newest to me; I've seen bias strips used before but this technique uses regular fabric strips that are sewn to a garment, down the middle so that they slightly gather and the edges can fray with use. ie: on this Swirl Shirt. She also talks about bias strips, as well, though.

It's an interesting read that offers some new ideas, with a youthful, contemporary aesthetic. If you like the concept of upcycling, recycling, or sustainable sewing, you might want to check this one out.