What Can You Make With Fat Quarters?
Are you a quilter, sewer, or crafter looking for inspiration? Chances are, you've come across "fat quarters" in your fabric stash or at your favourite craft store. These wonderfully versatile pieces of fabric are a secret weapon for countless projects, offering just enough material for a variety of small to medium-sized creations without the commitment (or cost!) of a full yard.
But what exactly is a fat quarter, and what magical things can you conjure up with them? Dive in to discover the endless possibilities!
What is a Fat Quarter?
Fat quarters are often sold in coordinating bundles, making it easy to build a cohesive collection for your next project.
Top Projects You Can Make with Fat Quarters
Quilting Blocks & Small Quilts
- Quilt Blocks: Their generous dimensions are perfect for cutting multiple shapes (squares, triangles, strips) needed for individual quilt blocks. A fat quarter can easily yield several pieces for a traditional block pattern.
- Small Quilts & Wall Hangings: Combine a few coordinating fat quarters to create stunning baby quilts, lap quilts, decorative wall hangings, or charming table runners.
- Patchwork Projects: The variety in fat quarter bundles is ideal for dynamic patchwork designs, adding depth and interest to any quilting project.
Cushion Covers & Pillowcases
- Accent Cushions: A single fat quarter can be enough for the front of a small accent cushion (e.g., 16x16 inches or smaller), with another fat quarter or plain fabric for the back.
- Envelope Backing: Fat quarters are perfectly sized for creating envelope-style cushion backs, eliminating the need for zippers.
- Travel Pillows: Craft a cozy travel pillowcase for road trips or plane rides.
Bags & Pouches
- Zippered Pouches: Ideal for makeup bags, pencil cases, or organising small items in a larger tote.
- Tote Bags (Small): Create a cute small tote for gifts, a child's bag, or a reusable lunch bag.
- Clutches & Wallets: Perfect for making custom clutches or sections for fabric wallets.
- Drawstring Bags: Simple to sew and great for gifting or organising toys.
Home Decor & Kitchen Essentials
- Coasters & Placemats: Use your favourite prints to make a set of fabric coasters or reversible placemats.
- Pot Holders & Oven Mitts: With the addition of insulate batting, fat quarters transform into stylish kitchen protectors.
- Napkins & Mug Rugs: Sew up a set of reusable fabric napkins or small mug rugs for your coffee breaks.
- Bunting & Garlands: Cut triangles or other shapes to create festive fabric bunting for parties or nursery décor.
Apparel & Accessories (Small Scale)
- Headbands & Hair Accessories: Fashionable headbands, scrunchies, or hair ties.
- Aprons (Child's or Half-Apron): A couple of fat quarters can be enough for a child's apron or a simple half-apron for adults.
- Baby Bibs & Burp Cloths: Soft and absorbent, ideal for little ones.
- Fabric Face Masks: A single fat quarter can yield multiple masks, depending on the pattern.
Gifts & Novelty Items
Handmade gifts are always cherished.
- Fabric Books & Soft Toys: Create simple soft blocks or fabric activity books for babies.
- Key Fobs: Small but practical, a great way to use up scraps.
- Pin Cushions: Fun and easy projects that are always useful for sewers.
- Gift Card Holders: Present gift cards in a beautifully handmade fabric sleeve.
Tips for Working with Fat Quarters
Pre-wash: Always pre-wash your fat quarters if your finished project will be washed, especially if combining different fabric types or colors, to prevent shrinkage and color bleeding.
Pressing is Key: Keep your seams neat and your fabric flat by pressing frequently.
Think in Bundles: Investing in fat quarter bundles often provides a cohesive colour palette and pattern mix, making project planning much easier.
Measure Twice, Cut Once: Even with smaller pieces, accuracy is crucial for a professional finish.
Ready to Start Crafting?
Fat quarters are a fantastic resource for sewers and crafters of all skill levels. They're affordable, versatile, and perfect for trying new techniques or busting your fabric stash. So grab a bundle (or two!) and let your imagination soar.