A fabric scrap garland is a good way to use small pieces left from sewing projects. Soft linen, cotton checks, and a restrained holiday color palette make a relaxed decoration for a shelf or wall, with no need for a sewing machine.
Sort clean fabric by weight
Choose scraps with similar thickness so one section does not hang much heavier than another. Wash and dry reusable fabric as appropriate, and remove pins or damaged pieces. Keep delicate or heavily shedding materials for another project. Try two main fabrics and a quieter third color rather than including every scrap from the basket.
Test one knot before cutting
Cut a sample strip about 1 inch wide and 8 inches long. Tie it around a length of sturdy cord and decide whether you prefer a simple knot or a folded loop attachment. Adjust the strip length to suit the look you want, then use that piece as a cutting guide.
Build the garland in small groups
Repeat a loose pattern of two light strips, one darker strip, and one check. Slide the knots together gently without packing them so tightly that the cord bends. Leave plain cord at both ends for mounting. Lay the whole piece flat periodically to check that the weight is balanced.
Choose a suitable display place
Hang the garland away from heaters, flames, lights that become hot, and places where children or pets could pull it down. Use supports that suit the surface and weight. When taking it down, shake out loose threads away from food and fold the piece into tissue instead of crushing the knots.
