How to create textile paintings with fabric scraps

I have a LOT of fabric. 

Over the last year, I rearranged my sewing room so I would be able to easily see all that fabric.  Most pieces are too small for what a seamstress needs. Most are fat quarter or larger in size because they’re left over from quilting and other crafts I have worked on in the past. 

Rather than throw those scraps away, I started buying canvases of different sizes. I decided to create canvas designs using the fabric I have.  Some of the creations were from a pattern that I picked up at a quilt show or at a quilt shop. Since I never made those quilts, I decided to do something different.

For this design I cut out patterns that were on old fabrics. For example, I used old outdoor pillows that were worn and applied the pieces to a solid piece of cloth.

Sometimes, I use quilt batting to give the canvas more of a quilted look while using different stitches to create depth and interesting textures.

I also like attaching surplus buttons and beads with fabric glue. Occasionally I use paint and stencil on the fabric.

Canvas artwork without a frame is lightweight and so easy to display on the wall or on an easel.

Here are some more of my creations. When I’m not redecorating my home with fabric art, I’m creating gifts for others.

I created this guitar from my sister because she is a musician.

If you’re a painter, and you want to try something new and challenging to exercise your creativity, try “painting” with fabric!