Tuesday 23 January 2018

What to do with Spoonflower Border Fabric

I have to admit, that the first time I received Spoonflower fabric, I was surprised at the amount of white fabric on all four edges. Somehow or another, I felt I'd been gipped - totally forgetting that I'd been able to order custom designed fabric (not mine) in a very small print run. The disappointment only lasted a minute or two. 


The excess fabric was all to do with the fact that it was digitally printed, using large inkjet printers. Just as with a home inkjet printer, the fabric printers create a border around the fabric.


Whatever the reasons it was there, I had to find a use for all that white fabric. No way was I going to throw it out!!! And so I started collecting the offcuts, knowing that one day I would find ways to use it. 

And I have...


Cut to the right width, it makes a great substitute for ribbon. In the photo above, the ribbon was wrapped around a pillowcase. Next to no wastage there, as the ribbon can be re-used.

If you receive presents from me in real life, chances are that you have seen my Spoonflower ribbon.


Used as a drawstring bag cord, the Spoonflower offcuts are functional, but not pretty. From memory, the strips were about 1" wide, with the edges zigzagged. I think if the stitching had been done in white, the overall effect would have been better.

Nevertheless, I know I can improve on this method, and I have plans to do so in the near future. I am about to embark on a large project which will require a lot of cord - experimenting time ahead.


Inside each of the 30 library bags made recently was a name tag. I could have used tape, as in the tutorial, but small pieces of Spoonflower offcuts, turned under at the edges, did the job just as well - and they were much cheaper.

That's the three ways I've thought of to utilise my Spoonflower border fabric. Let me know your suggestions - either things you've done, or thought of doing. I still have a lot left.

Edited to add - check out Daryl's long list of great suggestions in the comments below.

... Pam




3 comments:

  1. Those white edges certainly look wide enough, even after trimming off the selvedge edges, so using them for patchwork where you need bits of white would work, like a 9-patch block. I would also paint them with fabric paint and use in a scrappy bag or quilt. Then you get any color you want by painting them. Sew them into a long tube and braid them together for handles on a bag too. Stuff them and all your scraps into a bed you make for a cat or dog. Scraps make great stuffing and more washable than poly stuffing. Make a dream catcher and use long strips tied on to the bottom of the dream catcher. Tie to the end of a stick and use as a cat toy! Make a kite and use as the tail. Use as twine when you need to bundle something up and tie it together. cut into narrower strips, tie ends together and knit or crochet a mat, or a bowl or small rug with it.

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  2. Woven patches have quickly become my go-to choice for adding flair to my belongings. Their intricate designs and vibrant colors never fail to catch the eye. What truly sets them apart is their longevity; these patches hold up exceptionally well over time. Whether you're commemorating a special event or expressing your unique style, woven patches are a fantastic choice that combines craftsmanship, durability, and personalization. If you haven't explored the world of woven patches yet, I highly recommend giving them a try – you'll be amazed at the impact they can make on your collection.

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