What to Do with Your Dress Scraps

In our last blog update we discussed the importance of sustainability in the wedding industry. Today we want to delve a little deeper into one specific area of that, your dress scraps. Almost every dress has some quantity of scrappage once alterations are complete. We gives these scraps back to our brides in the hopes they will repurpose them, instead of them ending up in landfills. Especially if you don’t plan on keeping your gown (cough, cough- consignment anyone?) dress scraps are a great way to keep memorabilia. But what do you do with them? Let’s talk about some of our favorite scrap-cycling projects!

Scrapbooking

The original ‘scrap upcycling’. This can be anything from just using squares of your hem for accents, to turning lace, applique, and fabric as elegant framing in photo albums. This is a great option if you aren’t super crafty but want to be able to repurpose pieces and create albums with diverse media.

Scrunchies

Scrunchies are a service option we offer in the studio if you want the memorabilia, but crafting isn’t your thing. We love the scrunchie option because they can be made in a variety of styles and options to accommodate many sizes. Not only are they a great wearable option but they are also a great giftable option for the truly special people in your life (like daughters, sisters, moms or anybody special that may not have gotten to be present on wedding day).

Bows

Hair Bows are another great option for wearable memorabilia that we offer in our studio. These can also be made in a variety of sizes and bow styles. Additionally, they can be done with both hair-tie attachments or clip attachments, making them even versatile options for shorter hair.

Dress Scrap Silhouette Shadow Boxes

We love seeing brides turn their dress scraps into wall art! A few of our favorites have been framed silhouette art of their dresses using actual scraps to recreate texture and color. If you are not craft savvy- there are a number of small businesses on the web where you can send in your scraps along with a picture of your dress and then they’ll create one-of-a-kind artwork for you based on the options you choose.

Ring Pillow

A time-honored classic, you can find examples of these online everywhere. But rather than just buying online for a pretty place to store your rings when they’re not on your hand, why not make one out of your dress scraps? If time permits before your wedding, you can also use this ring pillow during your ceremony for the ring-bearer if you’re having one.

Pet Bandanas

We love the dog collars we make for your furry friends, but another afterwards option are collar wrapping bandanas. They make great, easily cleanable options. Because they are also removable from the collar, it’s a great option if you are worried about a collar wearing out.

Table runners

Here us out- this one sounds a little cooky right out of the gate, but- if you do some light inspo digging you will see some stunning results that we promise will change your mind. If you’re a dream homemaker (We see you HGTV lovers) these are elegant ways to dress-up your home in a way that celebrates your love story. Use it as everyday décor or break it out for holidays and anniversaries.

Baby Accessories

If you and your partner plan on children, or already have children- this is a really sweet heirloom idea. We’ve seen everything from bonnets and baby headbands to booties and christening outfits depending on how much scrappage you have left.

Personalized Handkerchiefs

Handkerchiefs are making a comeback as an “old money staple” now that society is moving away from single-use culture. Depending on the fabric of your gown, handkerchiefs are a great “daily use, keep close” piece of memorabilia. Many Seamstresses can also embroder lettering into them as well if you like the monogrammed look.

Personalized Clutch

Hear us out… we know this one is harder to picture, but bear with us. Turning your dress scraps into an anniversary cluth purse is a newer trend we’ve seen- but honestly, we love it. Not only do their make great heirloom pieces, but you also end up with an elegant formalwear bag that goes with almost anything. It’s such a fashion statement, a great conversation starter, and honestly, a head turner.

There are services online that will make them for you- but if you’re feeling REALLY crafty or inspired, they also sell kits on Etsy, and at some Michael’s stores.

Christmas Ornaments

While certainly not ground-breaking, turning your dress scraps into christmas ornaments makes a great “first Christmas” piece, or activity to do together. It’s a straightforward simple process that anyone can do with some water balloons, modge-podge, ribbon, and patience. They still make great gifts for close family, or make great heirloom ornaments for your own tree.

Craft Away

However you choose to repurpose parts of your dress, we hope you’ve found this a source of inspiration! If you’d like to inquire about our team helping you with your post-wedding crafts, reach out to us at the studio! We’re happy to answer any questions you may have!

XOXO,

The Town Seamstress Team