Last week’s QM Shorts post about using batting scraps generated some comments on opposite ends of the opinion spectrum. Here are two.
From Regina: “As someone who…uses batting scraps for purse handles and other small crafties—I am cringing at the size of the scrap in your trash can.”
And from Cindy: “I can’t keep every bit of quilting leftovers so I draw the line at batting scraps. In the trash they go.”
Do you see the humor? One person is cringing because she feels I’m throwing away scraps that are too large—they might still be useful. The other is saying there’s no way she would save scraps of batting—way too much trouble.
I can see both sides but the point I want to make here is that there is room in the quilting world for both ways of thinking!
This is not the Marine Corps (thank goodness!), it’s Quilting! There is space for each person to hold his or her own opinion on a variety of quilty topics. We can all respect each other and learn from each other.
Aren’t we lucky to be part of the world of quilting?! To celebrate, let’s have a giveaway. Leave a comment by midnight, Tuesday, Jan. 24 answering this question: How open are you to seeing both sides of a quilting idea? The most thoughtful answer wins a quilty prize package of cool stuff! The winner is Marti Parsons with her spirited comment about doing whatever makes you bloom!!! Thanks for all the great and thoughtful comments. QM readers are the best!
I think many of today’s issues could be handled if we learned the art of compromise. It is okay to agree to disagree. I have learned to appreciate the many varied forms of quilting and there is no “only do it this way” in my quilting life.
I try to always be open minded about any issue, and quilting is no different. Not allowing for the opposite side of a story generally results in one thing: stifled creativity. You can’t grow your own craft without being open to new things—after all, learning is the process of opening yourself up to a new possibility. True, what works for one person doesn’t always work for another—that is why there are so many ways of doing one thing. I am relatively new to quilting, but I’ve found that of the three ways I’ve seen something done, one might work best for me 90% of the time, another that last 10% and that there there are at least three more ways I haven’t seen (yet) that might take the place of either of those. That is why the quilting world is so vast and varied—there is room for every possibility; the only real issue is limited time to explore it all.
It’s that old saying again isn’t it….one man’s trash is another man’s riches. I think it’s each to their own, if someone want’s to throw their scraps of batting away it’s their decision, they have bought it, they can do what they want with it. I have to admit I am thinking about it….I now have a big plastic box full of batting scraps, not sure I am going to be able to use it all so some may have to go into the dustbin, or maybe I will tie them in to bundles and use them as dusters!!
This is how you learn! We live in a world of change and if you are not able to see that there are many ways to do something (including quilting), and can agree to try new things, you will be left behind in a hurry. My example is that I would like my granddaughter to learn about quilting, and she is. I feel that she should be able to pick patterns and fabrics that apeal to her, which are very different that what I might choose. She still can learn some of the older techniques from me and I can learn about some of the new younger ideas from her.
I love seeing both sides of the story! I’m often torn between traditional vs. modern, saving scraps vs. passing them on to someone else (or the garbage.) So often traditional quilt blocks scare me because they are often more detailed or require more precise piecing than something modern and intentionally wonky. However, I see the value in both and love to see how different quilters approach the technique. I can’t tell you how much I’ve learned from older, traditional quilters and the younger generation both! As a newer quilter myself there’s always so much to be learned. If I wasn’t open to seeing both sides, then it’s hard to say how much I would miss out on. And that would be the ultimate tragedy for me!
From Stephen Covey’s “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,” I’ve learned to try to see the good in other people’s viewpoints. “I’m glad you see things differently” is what I say when someone has an opinion different from mine. It often leads to great discussions. Love this kind of blog question – thanks.
I’m fairly open. What works for one may not work for another. Everyone has to follow and do their own thing.
I love looking at different angles for all sorts of things and it especially applies to quilting~ there are often more than two ways to make a block. And there are about a zillion different ways to store scraps. The same with batting pieces~ lots of different uses for them~ and they are all good uses! It is one of the things I love most about quilting~ the varying ideas, the beauty, the creativity. All fun!
Hey, I’m a journalist. I’m always interested in all sides of the story!
I like to consider myself very open, seeing both sides to every issue. However, there are no “quilting police” to my knowledge, so ultimately most issues are going to succumb to a matter of personal enjoyment and comfort – whatever works for the individual.
As a teacher of quilting I always tell my students that there us usually more than one “right” way to do things. If someone says that their way is THE Only Way, run fast away from them. However, always try new methods/”stuff” at least twice, it may surprise you.
There are always two or more sides to an issue. The strong people are those who are recognize this and are flexible. I used to look at the large/small piece issue as either throw it away or keep it just in case. Recently, a friend of mine mentioned saving selvedges for bedding for the humane society. Those pieces I am not sure about now end up in the donation pile because they are still useful and good for others.
I am one of those people who don’t throw away enough according to hubby. Any scrap big enough to use for something else is saved for quite a few years, and amazingly it sometimes still comes in handy! Quilt batting that was too small for a quilt, will find a place in something that needs some support, or a wallhanging, or even pot holders. If you’re a versatile sewer, not only quilts, but also clothes and other things, most things will get used eventually. Case in point: Bought a piece of material a couple of years ago to make a jacket for a bride, who later decided she wasn’t interested, and this Christmas this piece was used for my Christmas village that I put out.
I’m kind of jealous of quilters who can find a non-quilting use for small batting pieces. While I don’t pick batting out the trash at quilting classes, I can’t part with the small pieces. This is reinforced occasionally when I find a quilting use for the small pieces. I completely understand pitching small pieces, and also understand the horror at pitching small pieces. It’s really personal choice. I respect all points of view and don’t try to convince another quilter of mine. Tamsyn
I have been living overseas for many years and so have come across so many different cultures and ways of doing things. I guess once you have made many sacrifices you are more willing to accept many varied ways of thinking and realize just because something is done different from you it doesn’t mean it’s bad. If only people understood how much more interesting the world is because of this fact we could learn things much easier. The countries I have lived in and quilters I have met have enriched my life and way of thinking.
I don’t use batting for quilts. I use flannel. Lasts longer and much warmer.
I may prefer one side or the other about a specific issue, but usually live be the “to each his own” motto.
I’ve learned sooo very much by watcing and listening and soaking every suggested quilting ideas. It makes for a perfect blend of our own individualized quilting personalities to shine out and encourages others to expand their horizons .
To leave oneself open to other ideas and ways of thinking allows new experiences and growth. You could take one highway from coast to coast, eating at Burger King or Stuckeys and arrive at the opposite coast in record time. OR, you can take other ways, stopping at the Grand Canyon, Mt. Rushmore and enjoy things that are off the beaten path. You still arrive on the other coast, but you are enriched by the experiences. Every once in a while we need to shake things up, even our thinking, to stay fresh and allow for new ideas.
I love hearing both sides of a story! There is a lot to be learned, but you’ll lean too much if you don’t get educated on both sides!
One mans treasure is another mans junk! I love to hear both sides of a story, it gives me more insight to what everyone is thinking, as well as maybe give me a better way to do something!
I see both sides of this discussion, and agree with both in one way or the other. I save batting scraps that are small enough to fuse together.
I don’t make items such as handbags so have no need for ‘skinnies’ ~ I save those in a baggie and donate them so they are used (in one way or another).
I really like grab bags from yard sales or resale shops, as others have said ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure)
Since I have been known to support both sides of an issue when talking to myself, LOL, I certainly am open to seeing what options are available and seeing which works best for me.
I know that a technique that best fits my personality/ablility/current project may not work for someone else; I also know that I might find that same approach less than useful at another time.
The beauty of expressing yourself through quilting is the opportunity to venture in new directions and learn something new every time. If you only listen to yourself, you’re not going to learn very much.
I was brought up to always view both sides of a coin, that what was one man’s meat was another man’s poison. My parents were both war babies and knew how much pain and suffering occurs when people will not compromise or respect another persons point of view. Patchwork and quilting is a hobby for most of us, one that we do in order to have fun and get some relief from the pressures of the modern world. To get worked up because one person tacks, pins, cuts, etc differently from either yourself or the “Patchwork Police” can turn newcomers off and take the fun out for others. Relax, sit back and be thankful that we are all different.
I am very open as I learn so much from watching everything that I can on doing different projects. My teacher told us that there are no right or wrong way to do things that is simply what you like and may be the easy way for you to learn how to do it. I am a very visual person as I need to see how its done for me to understand how to do it.
I love learning about the ways other people/cultures do everything, not just quilting. While I may look at their ideas and think “You have got to be kidding me!”, I am still learning from them – even if that lesson is “That would never work for me”. It is still fascninating!. And more often then not, I will find some tidbit I CAN use.
If we all thought the same way, we wouldn’t have multiple methods for making things like half-square triangles or flying geese! I have favorite ways of doing some things, but I’m always interested in trying a new method. You never know what you just might fall in love with! In fact, I’m amazed at how some people can see a pattern or design and think of some new way to accomplish it. My mind doesn’t work that way!
Even if one idea is new and doesn’t work for you now, the idea may work for you in the future in another time. Ecclesiastes 3:1. New American Standard Bible (©1995)
There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven–
As quilters we challenge each other and give ideas and share what may work for us. I’m always learning and willing to keep an open mind. We are as different as our ideas and together we bring life to new thoughts, ideas, and projects.
I look at all sides of the issue, what ever it is. If we all thought the same, it sure would be a boring world.
I like hearing how another person thinks about an issue, whether it be quilting or otherwise. I think that the more ways you learn about an issue helps you to see it in a deeper way. Every person looks at something in a way that reflects their background and creativity. When I hear another person’s perspective, it makes me think more about my perspective and sometimes it changes the way I think of something. There are so many creative people out there, that I don’t want to limit myself to just doing things my way.
I usually save betting if it can be used to make smaller items ,
Like maybe a table runner. But anything smaller than that I usually don’t save .
I feel like its a persons own personal preference , and it’s up to a quilters own ways and ideas .
As someone who is keeping scraps and wants to do something with them. I bought a book on using up my scraps. The author has certain sizes that she makes “scrap quilts ” with and I am trying to keep to those sizes and through out the rest.
My girls doll clothes now have some fun designs on them as I recycle old clothes that have holes in them…. oh and did I mention the cloth bags you can make from the jeans my son wears the knees out of in 3 months. Scraps, Recycle, ohhhh the possiblities.
I am very open minded when it comes to life in general. Being open minded is what leads to learning and growth, in quilting and in life.
I think listening to both sides and viewing each side rationally helps in making the decision that is best for me.
I find as I get more “mature” there is always more than one way to do something. For this I am very glad. Sometimes the “right” way does not work for me. As to batting- I am a saver. I actually have used some of my scraps!
SallyKingemail@gmail.com
http://www.BabyStepsQuilting.com
There are those who see the glass half empty and those who see it half full. I’d prefer to think that there is simply room for more. If you share your idea with me, and I share mine with you, we’ll each have two ideas.
I use my batting scraps for rag quilts while my girlfriend won’t keep a scrap of anything at her house. I am the blessed one…she gives me all of her scraps of batting and fabric and I make donation quilts and everyone is happy especially the recipient of the quilt!!!!! I see both sides of the story here and it always has a happy ending! I love happy endings, don’t you?
There is no right or wrong answer to many questions when it comes to quilting. Just because I might do something different than you doesn’t mean either of us is wrong or right. We can learn from each other and many times make it better all the way around. No criticism is necessary, but maybe a gentle suggestion can make a huge difference. When learning a new technique or making a pattern, I might watch, read or whatever it takes and then decide the best way for me to do it. Saving scraps, batting and other items is the same. Some choose to keep and others not to keep. If you are not going to use it and have nobody to give it to that might, why keep it? But, if you are someone who does have a use or know someone that can use it…that is great. Just keep on quilting and enjoy what you do to the fullest!
How boring life would be if everyone thought and acted alike! I respect other’s tastes, talents and style with the hope that they will do the same for me. While I make my quilts to be used and snuggled with, I certainly appreciate the time and work that goes into heirloom hand appliqué or unique art quilts. And if I can learn something from someone else, I am enriched beyond measure.
We are human and we want to hear other ideas as well as ours. In the quilting and sewing world, we want to get together with others and learn! Learning new things and new ways is always good for us! I love to get together with other sewing people, it is so much fun and so much to know about others and ourselves. Scraps are a great way to make those quilts that we knew when we were little that grandmothers put together. They are cherished, each piece of fabric has a story!
I think it is great to be open to both sides. Case in point, washing fabric. I always try to pre-wash my fabric before making a quilt. And I know there are lots of quilters that never pre-wash. The only time I don’t pre-wash fabric is when I am making something that won’t be washed, like a wall hanging. Yet there are some who love to work with fresh pristine fabric and then wash it after it is quilted. I on the other hand, love to wash and press my fabric, and not wash it after quilting. At some point it will be washed, but I love seeing the freshness of my quilts, especially those that are on display in the living areas. It’s the”you say ta-maytoe, I say toe-muhtoe” story. Thankfully we can all enjoy using our own techniques and not have to worry about the quilt police showing up at our door
Having recently taken a course with Joan Ford, of ‘Scrap Therapy’, I learned a fourth way to make flying geese. I am too new of a quilter to have a favourite method yet, but have learned that ‘there is more than one way to skin a cat’! Some teachers and quilting buddies say ‘steam? NEVER!!’, while others hold to the opposite practice. Sometimes I just put on an innocent, dumbstruck, wide-eyed look and say ‘Really? Tell me why…’, then do what works for me as soon as they’ve had their say and left the vicinity :-0 !
As for batting (and fabric) scraps, I use both to fill quilted pillows- makes them easy to machine wash ‘n dry.
In the little things of life we may be different but in the big things we are as one.
One of the first things I learned in History was to look deeper into a story. There is never a “right” or “wrong” side, just different stories. I apply this to all parts of my life, quilting included! And I never see it as a problem between myself and others. I even have a solution for those who feel the need to throw fabric away or try to argue with me.
Every year, my guild has a raffle to help raise money for speakers. We are guided by the idea that “one woman’s trash is another’s treasure.” Everyone brings in their gently used, no longer wanted items. We sell tickets and memebers get to put a ticket in a bag for the item they’d like to have. Bags of scrap material aways seems to attract the most quilters. Someone always wants them! So if you can’t bring yourself to keep scraps, collect them for those who’d love to make beauty out of them!
There’s the old saying “There’s two sides to every story” and, I generally agree with that. Society is quick to condemn on just one person’s opinion, rumor, etc. While I sometimes may be “influenced” to one side, I try to understand both sides. When it comes to quilting, “do what you have to do” is a pretty good motto when it comes to scraps of any kind; if you prefer to keep, keep, if you prefer to throw, throw. And, feel free to “throw” in my direction, I’m a keeper
I try to be open minded about most things because I know I don’t know it all…lol..I love to hear different ways to do things and so therefore I feel I am a confident beginner. I am a lefty so I always have my instructions close by. I am always learning something new and usually a much better way to do something. I’ve been quilting for many years and I have always said that I couldn’t possibly live long enough to make all the quilts I want to make.. I also have a stash big enough to start my own store—well, more of less…but those scraps just call my name so in the bin they go…..So I hope I never stop learning new things and by the way I will celebrate my 70th birthday this July!!!
It’s easy to look at both sides. You may learn something new or a better way to do something. Why stifle your creativity by being so rigid that you can’t see another path. Relax and enjoy and learn.
I loved what everyone has been saving. I loved your idea for using batting for cleaning. Clever idea. I lived with my dad for 4 years after my mom passed away. I slowly moved all my quilting to his house. When dad passed away in 2010 I had to move all his belongings to my house. There were many treasured glass items of my mothers and I wrapped them in batting scraps. I have saved scraps for small projects, stuffing in pillows, to wrap valuables and just because I have a hard time getting rid of anything. But at the same time I have thrown some out. We all have different views and that is what is special about all of us. We share ideas. Hugs
I can understand both sides of the issue. I am a rather frugal person, and have been known to keep fabric scraps that I think I might be able to use in another project. However, that said, unless I have something in mind to use scrap batting, I usually do not keep that because I don’t really have the room in my sewing/craft room to store the batting scraps *for a just in case* craft… Of course, that is just me!
I try to recycle so I use my small left over batting and make pot holder, then I give them away to the nursing homes, shelters or churches so when they do the cooking they can be used
I’m open to all sides about quilting. There are so many variations and ways to work projects and the leftovers. Everyone should to be open minded and do what’s best for them and not judge others for what they chose to do. I’m not sure if you were asking about quilting in general or specifically about scraps and batting. I just read a blog about reading a post of Facebook where a hand quilter pretty much called long arm quilting cheating. How ridiculous is that! Longarm is different than hand quilting. It’s not cheating! It goes back to the old traditional versus modern piecing. There’s room for all types out there! – so the answer to your question – I’m very open to all sides of quilting. I may not care for or have the same mind set as some, but I don’t dare criticize their passion for whatever it might be (ie selvage projects are not my cup of tea, but I’ve seen some really neat things made with them). They are all works of art.
I like to think I’m opened-minded, however, that much batting I would have saved. I keep the pieces from the trimmed edges of a quilt too. With batting and fabric getting so expensive, I’ll save every piece atleast one inch in size. Who knows maybe one day I’ll make an Around the World quilt.
I enjoy learning new and different methods – doing the same thing the same way all the time gets old!
One of the reasons I love quilting is that there are so many new ideas and techniques to try. We can expand our minds when we try new things. I try to recycle things when I can but its great to learn ideas from other people and see if I can make use of these ideas in my life. Re-purposing things is something that I’ve been thinking about lately. For example if you don’t like a piece of furniture in one room it might work great in a different room. So some of our quilting supplies can be re-purposed and be made useful again too.
I would say I have to be open – I quilt without patterns, letting the fabric and the purpose inform the final design. Without openness to all ideas, I would not be making the type of quilts that I do.
I love keeping scraps of Fabric plus Batting, If there big enough pieces I can sew them together for a baby quilts batting, or Purses, I even used some when My Sons dog tore out the back of his chair and My Dog tore my couch and took the batting out, so this worked rerally well for that. When my Quilts are quilted I cut the extras off and use them, even if I have to tear out thread where they had sewed it.
I give away alot of scraps too I have Family and Freinds quilt also.
I love to quilt as long as its not bigger then a twin anything bigger goes to a Longarm quilter. I don’t think thats cheating at all.
I can see and understand both ways of thinking and I do believe it’s an economic answer especially in these times. It would seem that the higher your income the less likely you are to save any sort of scraps. Being on the lower end I try to use every single scrap of batting, fabric , thread and anything else I might be using at the time. I strive to use the best I can afford so I’m always trying to save anything leftover that might be used for anything else I might make.
If there were only one way to see things, quilts would just be blankets, books would just be copies of old ideas, and people would just be sheep. Perspectives, all perspectives need to be considered.
While there are staunch supporters of one side or the other where quilting is concerned, there is something good about having both (or even more!) options than just one so that one or the other (or a third or fourth) can be chosen depending on the project one is working on. Should the flannel just purchased be washed before it’s used or should it be used as is? It depends!
I think, as quilters, we should have a united front. Quilting is not simply a hobby, it is a craft, an art, an activity that has been bringing people together for generations. Let’s not let the small differences in technique or style divide us. Whether to save batting scraps or throw them away is a personal choice, no different than whether to eat chocolate or vanilla ice cream. Quilters need to remember that there is no perfect way to do things and respect all the ways that are different from our own. I truly enjoy learning from other quilters and I find that sometimes, I prefer their methods and adopt them as my own and other times, I stick with my original choice. Either way, I am learning something new every day while participating in an activity that has brought me much comfort, joy, warmth and friendship.
I have seen so many changes over the years to the term quilt making, I stood beside many great quilters as I watched the way it should be done. Yet each was so different, to my Grammy, you had to had cut and sew each piece together to have a true quilt, my Nan said NO you must sew the pieces together with a machine to make it last and the hand sewing was the quilting done on a frame for a true quilt… My Mother used a rotary cutter to cut her pieces, she used her sewing machine to piece together her quilt and most times she sat with a lap frame hand quilting her true quilt, she got to see a long arm at work and was fasinated and while she never got to quilt by machine she did a few times let a long arm quilter finish her quilt. As for me, I design my quilts on a computer, I cut with a die cutter, I sew with a machine all the pieces together and I use my long arm to quilt as I have no patience for hand quilting. From scraps, to bolts of fabric, from blankets to batting, from hand sewing to machines I see the beauty in all the traditions and innovations or quilting and I love them all.
I see both sides of very issues with regards to quilting, fabric selections, batting, washing fabrics, etc. I believe everyone should be informed and make their own decisions, but then again, have options to change our minds!
I learned many yrs ago when I started quilting that what is good for one quilter may not be good for another. I try to respect other quilters opinions and ideas and if it happens to be something I haven’t thought of or tried, I give it a go. If it works for me I stick with it, if it doesn then I keep looking and trying. Everyone has a right to their own opinion. And I have to say I’ve learned a lot from quilters over the yrs that you can’t learn from a book or magazine!
IN the beginning….I was my own worst ‘quilting policewoman’….super critical of every wrong stitch. Things HAD to be perfect as we learned in any recently attended quilting class… As I’ve progressed, I have learned to be a bit easier on myself and open to flexibility and imagination. Creating my own designs from things I’ve seen and things I want to see, and ideas from friends on past projects. I still use patterns as a basis to many projects, but I also improvise to achieve the results I want..and NONE are perfect, but they are mine and unique and one-of-a-kind.
I was terrified of free motion quilting but then with my husband’s encouragment, just ‘did it’ and now I love the freedom and creativity of it. I have a Viking Mega Quilter to do the quilting and some piecing. Love it. Nothing that it can’t handle.
I use a rotary cutter and mats..don’t design on a computer…I am way too lazy to hand quilt although I admire it immensely…all is machine pieced and quilted.
I have another sewing/embroidery machine that I am branching out with making embroidered blocks and assembling them into quilts now. As I grow and learn more and more (a process that never ends!) I so enjoy the creative outlet as well as the pleasure of giving most things away.
When I attend a quilt expo I am blown away at the artistry of so many.
Works of art…for sure, quilting is an artform as well as a hobby that expresses a person’s talents and imagination, their love for the craft, and for others, and it might be good for us all to appreciate the genre and one another in that manner.
I am open to both sides; it’s all in how you feel and what you believe is right for you; everyone is different and entitled to do things “their way”.
Funny. This theme keeps popping up for me (hearing people critical of a money?award winning quilt at a quilt show, another blogger having heard that not hand quilting is cheating, the modern vs. traditional debate on a few blogs…etc…) I am sure it has been said here, but, really…Live and let live…We all have a place and space, no matter the issue. Everyone have a GREAT day no matter what you are doing with your batting scraps
I most definitely like to look at both sides but when it comes to my real life, I try to be realistic/practical. If I have scraps like this lying around, I want to use them for something without saving them and them taking up valuable fabric stash space!!
I personally struggle with this issue every time I sew. I get to a point where I just throw it all away, and then I will read something, take a class or get inspired and need all the little bits I just threw out! I think I will always keep more than I toss-you never know when that new scrappy project will pop in your head:) I even ran into a woman at a class once who sweeps EVERYTHING up and uses it all to stuff dog beds…maybe I need to donate a few bags to her…
Like everything else, there is usually two sides to the story and one needs to do what works best for themselves. Personally, I probably keep too many scraps, including batting, but at least I know they are around if I need them!
Paper or plastic, hand or machine, cotton or poly, wash or not….. all these impede the creative process!! Do what makes you bloom!!!!
My idea with scraps is to donate to a local Day Care or Kindergarten for the children to use. I keep all of mine…. I’ll use them for stuffing toys, pillows, etc. one of these days.
You never know what you might learn if you aren’t open to hearing other peoples opinion or way of thinking, whether it’s to do with quilting or everyday issues. Life sure would be boring if we just kept doing the same old thing day in and day out!
One of the biggest things I gain from the quilting world is “tips and tricks” from others. Although I teach quilting it seems like I learn something from my students in nearly every class. A closed mind doesn’t learn and grow. I’m always happy to listen to someone else’s thought and ideas. Not everything they say will always work for me but many times it does.
I don’t save every scrap but when in a class I always ask other students if they want what I would toss!!
I’m a new quilter and as such I am extremely open to any and all opinions on how to do just about anything. When I was learning to use a computer it became obvious very quickly that there is more than one way to do a function. Quilting is pretty much the same way. If you’re open to trying different ways of doing one task you’re likely to find one that suits you best or may be faster or more accurate. Quilting is an ever evolving art form and so are the techniques for putting one together. Therefore I am always all ears and withhold judgment until I’ve tried it for myself.
That’s the beauty of quilting. It’s about creating something that you love, you make it what you want it to be. So if want save everything great and it you want to toss it that’s okay too.
I’m fairly open minded about quilting simply because I’ve not been doing it long enough to be set in my ways; I try to apply this open mindedness to other areas in my life too. There is no right or wrong way if both ways work. Someone elses opinions are just as valid as mine, just so long as they don’t try to cram said opinion down my throat.
I love quilting because it transcends so many aspects of life that cause problems elsewhere. You are accepted as a quilter regardless of your age, race, sex, orientation, creed, heratage, backround. You could be new to quilting, or come from a long line of quiters. Everyone reaches out and shares their strengths with one another. This is one little thing that people disagree on in life, or in their art. I don’t like applique personally, but no one would say I am any less of a quilter for that, nor am I less of a quilter because I only keep the larger left over battings, and I don’t keep any fabric scraps less than 1 1/2″ square. That’s my preferance and what I need to set my own standards at. I’d gladly mail or deliver my smaller scraps to someone who does prefer to save those pieces. And from my experiences, no quilter would look down on another for having such personal standards. Just as no quilter would look down on me because of who I am either.
Well, what can I say that hasn’t already been said? I’m not a scrappy quilter, but my mom is and I’ve seen her digging through my trash, picking out little bits I never though could be used. Much the same with batting scraps, it really depends on what your style is that determines when to throw something our or when to keep it. We all have our own way of seeing things and so long as we’re each happy with our own decisions and enjoying our hobby, it doesn’t matter if it’s “wrong” to anyone else. Of course, expressing opinions is also okay, but remember to play nice!
I am very open to each his/her own. I would save that strip of batting but I don’t save all little bits of fabric. I have a drawer that I keep any batting that is at least big enough to make a potholder out of.
Once when I was teaching intro quilting clases I experienced a problem like this. The shop’s accepted way for attaching the binding to the quilt was to sew it to the back side, then flip it forward. When the day came to show the students how to do the binding students were not at the point to trim the quilt and attach the binding. I worked with the students to attach the binding from the front. Then I showed them how to insert straight pins into the seam line in a manner that secures the binding in place and makes it possible to finish from the front. The beginners handled it with ease! If I had insisted that they do it the other way because it was easier we would have lost time. I much prefer that they were able to do it in class rather than just watch me demonstrate.
A car for every seat. I like to be open to all opinions in the quilting world…as in life. This is how we learn and find out what works for us. Take in all opionions, use what works for you, and toss the rest away. I am not an art quilter, but I can surely learn something from a wonderful art quilter…and sometimes I surprise myself and teach someone a new way of doing things. That’s what is fun about quilting-we learn quilting and life lessons from one another.
I am fairly open to all options when it comes to quilting. I was always taught that just because I do something one way, it isn’t always the right way for everyone and if we all liked/did/wore/had the same thing, it would be a very boring world! Just because I choose to not keep scraps, doesn’t mean that the person who does is wrong. We each have our own ideas and there is no right or wrong way to do it!
Life is about looking at different point of views. And so is quilting. From the fabric we purchase to the patterns we make, each quilter has a different point of view. I enjoy working on the same pattern in a guild or class and seeing how each person’s quilt can end up so different because of the fabrics that were chosen. This is one of the reasons I enjoy quilting so much.
I am a saver; I admit it freely. However, I also understand that not everyone feels the same way I do. I try to keep an open mind. For example, I saw a new technique for making a particular block. I felt that the technique wasted more fabric than I was comfortable with. But then, I started to look at it from another point of view. The new technique saves me time, energy and frustration. So it is a trade – more fabric, but less time, energy, etc. There is no right way and no wrong way, just different ways!
I can easily see both sides of this issue. If you only did quilts, you would need larger pieces. But if you do other craft projects and have the space to store, the smaller pieces would be very useful. I think the biggest problem would be space.
I would love to see both sides of the quilting controversy…this is the only way that I feel I can learn new things. Some things are great for some quilters, but others might prefer “a new and improved” way of doing things. Heck, isn’t quilting ideas and designs an endless source…share away!
I have my larger quilts quilted by along arm quilter. She returns what batting was not used and I save small pieces that will accommodate the small quilts that I make and quilt. If the pieces are really small I donate them to Project Linus who pieces them together to make charity quilts.
When I first started quilting, all of the fabrics that I chose had to coordinate and match perfectly – and I wouldn’t even consider creating a scrappy quilt! They were fine for other people, but not me! Then I realized that my attitude was more about control than about the actual beauty of the fabrics used – and sometimes, the more fabrics you use in a quilt, the more beautiful it becomes.
Now I can see that there are a lot of differing opinions in the quilting world – and I may not agree with a lot of them, but it doesn’t mean that I am right, and “they” are wrong – it just means that we have different ways of looking at things. Besides, if we all did everything all the same, every time, this world would be a very boring place!
I am open to new ideas all the time. I can appreciate the way some people do things even if it is not for me. To each his own. I like to know different ideas and ways of doing or using things and then decide how I will do it. Sometimes I discover that their way is more awesome than what I have been doing. I think that there are always different roads to the same destination and if all used the same one it would be a mess so by everyone choosing their way we have harmony.
I think this issue is much like life. There are two side to the story. I think too often we forget this is true. We tend to only see one side. Now that is often because that is all we know. We only know what we were taught growing up, what our world consists of and we know. But on the flip side of that (also much like that batting situation) it is our job to expand the boundaries of our world. We must be willing to learn from those around us daily, extend the boundaries of our word and what we know. By refusing to do any of these things, we are prisoners to the crime of one-sided stories.
What a shame – no matter the topic. To only see one side to any story no matter how involved one might be in the situation, is a sad thing. Sad because you are missing out on the chance to grow & learn. Sad because you have the chance to touch another human being in a way that can impact them in a major way. Sad because life is short, don’t hang on to things that aren’t pleasant and good. See the other side…if only for your good. But I guarantee you…that won’t be the case for long.
You don’t have to save batting to clean with or make purses but you can appreciate those who do. And the opposite can be said about someone else.
For me, I save batting because I can use it in small projects.
Sometimes I use it to stuff things, by cutting it up, a thrifty way to save money.
On the other hand, we only have so much room and saving every scrap can build up, so if you don’t need it, chuck it.
Debbie
I really like to see both sides of an issue, especially a creative one. What may work for one person, may not work for another. Take paper-piecing for example. I learned how to paper-piece, self-taught by some tutorials on the internet. Then I tried doing some projects. I was so frustrated that I quit my project. I haven’t been back to it. But since I love the precision and so many more design possibilities with paper-piecing, I didn’t want to give up, and I did start doing research on Amazon. I found an amazing book by Peggy Martin “Quick-strip Paper-piecing”….and it works for me! I love paper-piecing now. I recommend this method to everyone. I showed people how to do it in Block-of the Month at my local Bernina store (we used Sylvia’s Bridal Sampler by Jennifer Chiaverini). Some bought the book. Some tried it, some liked it, some didn’t. For some, we modified that method a bit and then it worked for them. So being open-minded is what counts…..you can always learn something new!
I’m open-minded. Maybe not in the beginning, but I’ll come around.
I can see both sides; people each have their own way of doing things. Sometimes if you stop and look at the other way of doing something, you might learn something.
There is always the other side. Sometimes I just don’t see it (or want to), but I appreciate it being presented. I think that’s why I’m such an avid blog reader/follower. I am learning so much
To each his own. Or as they say here in Canada, each to his own. We are all individuals, and that’s a great thing! How boring the quilt world would be if we all did things the same way! What a rich quilting world it is because . We all have much to learn from each other. It’s wonderful!
I do agree with both sides – I have been deligently keeping sizeable batting that could be used but I have to draw a line on how small piece I will go. I have already used a few pieces from a baby quilt I just finished FMQing few days back. And I have no regrets on using it for dusting. By the way, it was a most useful way of throwing out small pieces of batting.
How open am I to both sides? In quiting, or life? The first thing I remember about one of my early quilting classes was the comment, “it’s your quilt, you can make it anyway you want.” Truly an “ah-ha” moment for me.
I guess that is true for life too, within limits. I am uncomfortable around people with fixed minds, and “we’ve always done it this way” kind of thinking. “Let’s figure it out–together” seems to be a more flexible, amenable way of thinking about things. What works for you may not work for me, and it fits your life. What works for me may not work for you, but give me the same courtesy of what fits my life. If we all work together to solve a problem, a lot more is accomplished, than taking the “my way or the highway” approach.
And “dust” is still a four letter word!
The great variety of quilt making techniques was born out of compromise! If every time someone came up with a new idea or opinion about something quilting related, we were all too stubborn to try it, there would be no new innovations and less of the eye-popping “Wow” quilts today. We can’t all agree on everything, but trying new ideas helps me to grow as a quilter. Have a super day!
Quilting goes to the heart of a person. It is so important to be kind and openminded in comments and criticism of the work of others. Also, by being open, we, too, grow as quilters. My own style and taste have evolved considerably through the years, partially due to the influence of quilts and quilters that were not like me. I believe there is in my style a tiny sliver of every quilt I have ever seen. Isn’t “small pieces of different things all brought together” the essence of quilting?
Creativity is personal and individual, and not everyone’s time and space is the same. It’s important to remember there’s always two sides to a story, regardless of the plot. For the person who cannot/or does not have the mental space to deal with batting scraps it might her moment of letting something go so she can have the freedom to craft at all. When we’re over-loaded, something has to go in order to move forward. On the other hand, I understand the concern over waste, and how it might help someone who doesn’t have much or is thinking environmentally. Perhaps a compromise would be for no. 1 to keep her scraps in a container and no. 2 could go over and pick them up. (Kidding:)
How open are you to seeing both sides of a quilting idea? To me, rarely in life is there ever an instance when there is only one *right* answer… and certainly not in something as creative as quilting or sewing. There are so many instances where there are two or more ways of doing things– and whichever way you go, you still come out with a beautifully done project.. When we create, we’re expressing ourselves for our own enjoyment– and in the end, if we’re happy with what we’ve designed , that’s really all that matters… It’s the uniqueness in our creations that makes them special!
Just as there are so many fabric choices (thank goodness!), there are as many choices and opinions about quilting and I say again, thank goodness! It would be a dull world indeed if there was only one color of fabric and only one way of doing things.
I’ve found many uses for batting scraps over the years. Have used them to stuff pincushions, coasters, handles for purses, and more. Larger pieces can sometimes even be hand sewn together to create a batting for a placemat. However, what I choose to do may not be what others prefer. That’s the beauty of quilting. There are no right ways to do things.
I try to listen to all aspects of quilting with an open mind. Even if I don’t agree or like what is being done I may learn something that I can use in my processes. If you want to be heard and respected by others you must learn to give those same kindnesses first.
I am a slightly extreme environmentalists (not to be mistaken for the Mentalist, hes so funny). When I saw your batting in the garbage pic I thought it was a good idea, but it wasn’t dirty enough to throw away. In other words, it may not have been time to dust yet, lol. kind of a joke that was funnier in my head than in type.
I have a pot holder that I got from my sister in TX. It was made by an elderly woman she use to work for (doing household chores) a few days a week. The woman was not able to do much of anything, but would piece scraps of fabric to make pot holders. She use layaers of dryer lint as batting and hand quilted them. I asked my sister if I could have one to hang on my sewing room wall, to always remind me that I can make do with less. I am always humbled by the simple thoughtfulness of others.
I can certainly see both sides to this issue. Honestly, I liked the idea of using a piece of batting for dusting – much more efficient than just tossing out the stuff without a second thought. If I REALLY want to tick off those “quilt nazis” out there, I’ll tell you a tale of my daughter’s French bull dog shredding some of the batting scraps. Dog toys?! Hey, another novel use for the scraps! Seriously, I do save my batting scraps – sometimes use them for pillow stuffing – larger pieces for table toppers, placemats and coasters.
When I first started quilting I threw most of my scraps away. With that I can relate to not saving the small stuff. Then I learned about bonus quilts and now I never throw anything out. Right now I am working on bonus triangles. They will work as a flying geese border for a wall hanging I’m working on. And yes, I even save the scraps of batting. I use them to dust or to wrap around breakables. Each year more and more of my Christmas decorations are safer due to being wrapped in scraps of batting.
Have scraps – will quilt, craft, clean, wrap, etc…………………….
We all know there is no “right” answer
So, For me, I use my scraps for a variety of things, including as stuffing for dolls, pillows, pincushions and so forth. It’s “free” so why not use it. You know it is machine washable and dry-able and you will always have a never ending supply! So, for me, it is a win-win situation and reminds me of what my Nana always said: “Waste not, Want not”. Great topic and I have loved reading everyone’s thoughts on the subject! 
I can certainly see both sides. I threw away a lot of scraps when I first started quilting. Then I gave the thicker pieces to a friend to use in making pillows. Now I use them myself for making dog and cat blankets for the vets and the bigger scraps I sew together for charity quilts. I also use them for cleaning and dusting. Living in the desert, we get lots of dust.
When I read that post yesterday I had this exact battle with myself! That WAS a rather large piece going into the waste bin and, heavens! there’s a quilt-as-you-go block being sacrificed on the alter! Then, I thought, that is a rather clever idea – I’d not thought of using them to do the dusting. Hmmm, just might have to try that. After that, I contemplated how many scraps of fabric and batting I *already* had…I’d have thrown the darn thing out too! Sure seems we create a lot of self made pressure on ourselves when the whole point of quilting is to give us an outlet from the pressures of the world. Funny, that.
I am very open to both sides. In fact I frequently battle with myself. How tiny does a scrap have to be before it can be tossed? Well – if you’re making a miniature – then PRETTY TINY. What about a one inch square? Well – if you’re making a postage stamp quilt – then don’t toss it out. That said – HOW to do organize and keep up with all of those tiny pieces? They all are not rectangles or squares – sometimes you have an irregular piece left over from cutting out an applique – what do you do with it? I hate to just cut off the excess and toss it away – what if I NEED that irregular piece? YES _ I could easily drive myself into the looney bin. Then you have to consider how much time do you have? It allllll takes soooooo much time! AUWH! I think that is one reason some of my friends have resorted to making dog pillows for the humane society. Putting your scraps to a good use. They fill a pillowcase with scraps and sew it up. ONLY _ they don’t wash well – so they may be a limited time use.
I have scraps which are 25 years old, and I pull them out to use all the time.
SO you see -how conflicting this can be?
Just do your thing and maybe donate scraps to your local quilting group where they will be loved and used. OR do a giveaway on the net.
One womans scraps are definitely another womans stash!
I feel an ease and freedom to use scraps when I have a fear of cutting into a “fresh” piece of fabric.
Guess I have rambled on long enough today. If anyone finds “the answer” – share it with us all.
Cathy Byrd
byrd at gulftel.com
Quilting is an artform, in my opinion…and I would no more feel that everyone had to conform to the same set of rules then I would feel that a still life of roses wasn’t really RIGHT, because it was done in watercolors on paper, rather than in oils on canvas. Some people are inspired by scraps, and will actually use them. Some people, on the other hand, are not, and saving them would only turn their work areas into a hoarder’s nightmare. There isn’t a “right” way, there’s only “your” way, and that’s what makes it art!
oh, I want to hear all sides of a quilting idea!!! That’s how I come up with my unique style of quilting. I incorporate some of the old ideas, some of the new, and then add whatever suits my fancy into it! Isnt that the way alot of ideas are born??? Besides, since I am a scrap saver, I just love to find someone who isnt. I love to take their “trash” and call it my “stash”. If you like scrap quilts, you always need more variety! I also have bags of batting scraps that I try to match up and patch together for larger quilts. I grew up with the saying: use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without. I dont like to do without, so….
I think its smart to be open about new or different ideas, methods or ways to do something. You never know when you might learn an easier method for doing something that you’ve been doing the same way forever. I once asked someone who had posted a binding tutorial why she sewed all her binding strips together with a 45 degree seam but then sewed her final ends together with a straight seam and she replied “because I don’t know how to end it any other way.” Over the years I’m always trying different methods for achieving the same goal. In doing so, I’ve learned what methods work best for me and give me the result that I’m after. I always encourage new quilters to try different methods. I liken it to the way we like to travel. We can take the same old boring freeway which might be speedier but is boring and dull or we can get off the freeway and take secondary roads which are usually much more scenic and more fulfilling.
i am open to both sides of this issue..but if it were me..i would collect my leftovers and then find a group who could use it for charity projects, or local school, girlscouts/boyscouts, etc..just so the materials are used up!
thank you,
marie
The beauty of different opinions is that is gives us all many options to choose from. We don’t always know the background of a person and why they make the comments they do, but in the process I learn more about people and how to do things by listening to what others say. It took many years of practice, but I have learned a lot
Blessings,
Darlene
I love learning new ways to do things. I don’t have much patience so if a technique takes me less time and is easier, I’m all about it. As for scraps, I’m a pack rat. I will though take some time every now and then to go through the little scraps and pitch what I know I can’t use for anything. Usually if it’s less than a 2″ square, it goes in the garbage- fabric, batting, interfacing, everything.
How boring would it be if we all did the same things and quilted the same way. I like that someone may do the direct opposite of me because I can usually learn a new tip or see a new way of putting together a timeless square into a quilt pattern. Quilters are wonderful helpful people and I have learned so much from them as I am new to this wonderful hobby.
I give my smaller pieces to my friend. That way I don’t feel like a hoarder! Lol
I can see both sides of this argument, I my self save the scraps for small trapunto quilting, but I also see if you hang on to too much batting, you could be considered a hoarder, and that gets in to a whole new arena of problems. Quilt what you can and pass the rest on to another good home. One mans trash truly can be another mans quilt peice.
I hate wasting anything, but I don’t want to appear on an episode of hoarders either. I have to be in the right frame of mind to make these decisions, so I just pile up my scraps, and go through them when I can think clearly. My daughter has inspired me to push my limits a bit and think outside the box. With that, I try and keep and open mind and not judge. I’m just trying to do what I like for a change. Selfish, nope, it’s just time.
Since I am just a quilting beginner, but have been seeing for several years I can see both sides. There are times I struggle with what to keep and what to toss. I guess if I had a 5000 sq ft house I would probably keep everything little bitty thing. And just as sure as I toss something in the next week or so I find myself needing that very same thing I tossed. But with just about anything in life there are two sides to every story.
I use all my scraps-batting sizes smaller than 6″ square go in with my thread and fabric clippings to make stuffing for dog or kitty beds at the animal shelter or for my DGKs pets. Long strips of batting go into quilt as you go quilts and the squares go into rag quilts for babies or head start kids. My quilt guild gives away hundreds of quilts every year . I can’t afford to make monetary donations,but I can use my scraps and also avoid cluttering up the land fill.
How boring would this life be if every flower looked the same? If every animal looked like a giraffe? Or every person looked like Humphrey Bogart? Differences are what make life interesting. I for one enjoy the different points of views on everything from technique to taste.
I have yet to see a truely ugly quilt. Some are made to keep a body warm and cozy, others to express someone’s creativity. All were constructed using someone’s talents and vision. This is the beauty of the art called quilting.
One goal can always be reached by many means. I try to learn through others as each has their own style and each can be the correct way. I love quilting and this is one area where creativity comes from both your own and others ideas.
I save/use all my scraps of batting-pieces smaller than about 6″ square go in my bags of threads and clippings from quilting /these scraps accumualte very fast and are used for dog and cat beds for the animal shelter. long strips are used for quilt as you go place mats or table runners or baby quilts. Squares go into rag quilts for head start kids or the women’s shelter. Our quild gives away hundreds of quilts every year. I can’t afford to give monetary donations,but I can use my scraps to make something nice.
Two sides- there are many situations in the art of quilting where there are two sides- ie- choice of fabric- floral vs stripes- choice of binding vs no binding- choice of color- muted tones vs vibrant colors- style of the quilt- log cabin vs abstract and the list goes on and one- but when all is said and done- no matter how we disagree with each other- at the end- we always agree in our hearts that each other’s quilt is “beautiful”- so to sum it up- yes it’s ok to disagree- and it’s ok for there to be 2 sides to quilting-because in the end, when we hold up our treasure and we look at each other- we both “agree” – it’s “beautiful”
I often think I am not creative or imaginative enough, so I love to get ideas from others and their creative ideas. I helps me to think out of the box that much more. I tend to save too much, because I’m afraid I will need it later or find a great use for it later.
The late painter Bob Ross would say (paraphrased) on his PBS shows: “It’s your world. You can make it look like whatever you want it to be.” I practice permissive gardening and quilting, and laugh when see Eleanor Burns throw the scraps on the floor. There are enough issues to deal with in life and whether someone keeps or throws away excess batting is a personal decision. I personally lean toward frugality and keep small quilting items including excess batting – and have used it in a pinch.
I have a hard time throwing anything away.I love all of the ideas on the blog. I’m thinking about using my batting and fabric scraps to make my cat a few mice on strings and maybe a ball out of my really narrow fabric scraps. I guess everyone will get Christmas pot holders from me this year too.Thanks for the ideas.
If I close my mind to one side of a quilting issue, then I may never see the simpler way, or the more efficient way, or (heaven forbid) I may never come up with that one design that will bring me joy from start to finish and then 30 years beyond. Closing your mind in quilting, or any realm of life, is a claim that you know more than anyone else in the world. How can you know for sure that you DO know more than the rest if you won’t try their way at least once? I find when it comes to scraps, it often depends on my mood. I’ve made some lovely crumb blocks in the past, but earlier this week I purged anything less than 1.5″ from my scrap basket so I could have a fresh start of sorts. Sometimes, you just have to let go.
My DH is an engineer, and believe me – Engineers think differently! I can’t count the number of times in our 25 years together that we will come up with entirely different methods to achieve the same result. And neither one of us can understand the other’s process. But… in the end, same result. So neither is wrong, and both are right. And if we don’t get hung up on the process, we can both appreciate the result.
Not very original, but yes, 2 sides to every story. Scraps to me are like a big box of crayola crayons..So many possibilities…
One has to be willing to try new ways of doing things, otherwise growth is impossible. I love finding different ways, methods, techniques of doing things. It’s how I grow my quilting skills.
when i first started to quilt i saved every little scrap and cut them to the width that would best suit them and put them in their appropriate little rubbermaids :O) i don’t do that so much any more :O) but i don’t see a problem with someone doing that if they so desire :O) i would save batting of the sizes in that waste basket :O) they have stuff to iron them together to make them bigger :O) and it works! ;O)
and i ‘purr’sonally like to hear/see how people ‘interpret’ patterns etc – it only enhances ideas that someone else may have or re-enforce what they might have been thinking :O) and like someone said ‘let the fabric talk to them’ [ok might not be exact words :O) ]
if everyone didn’t have an opinion or were not allowed to ‘have’ an opinion, life would be pretty dull…. God made us all different, but He made us to live together, learn from each other and have our own minds…. it makes the world go ’round :O)
if you don’t want it maybe someone else could use it – donate :O) i do that with scrapbook supplies as well as my quilt supplies :O) pass it along :O)
Oh My Gosh! Are there only 2 sides? I love it when someone else sees things differently, it leads to so many learning opportunities..shortcuts, time savers, tips! I’ve got some of my best scraps by taking advantage of the “trash” that someone else generates… A whole quilt from snowball blocks leftovers.
Yes! I’m always open to trying and listening to other talented peoples ideas. There is never just one way of doing anything! And other quilters push me to learn and grow!
I really hate to throw anything away. I like to try and use the small pieces in art quilts. I do struggle with keeping things though when I am cleaning.
Just as there aren’t quilt police for the size of MY seams, to each their own. If you can find s use for something it isn’t trash, but if you don’t have space to save them they become clutter. That is where a group of quilty friends comr in hsndy, so you can share and not feel bad about tossing scraps.
I am very open to seeing both sides of a quilting idea. Usually this is a blessing, other times it is more troublesome.
Sometimes I save scraps, and other times I donate them and sometimes, even toss them out. When in doubt, I hang onto it for a while to until I get a gut reaction on what to do.
I like to make a mix of fast, easy quilts and slower, complicated projects.
I have seen that over time, I grow to appreciate more and more styles of quilting. I have pushed myself to appreciate colors and styles I used to think were ugly or boring. I try new techniques. Each experience helps me to apprciate more quilts, tools, and fabrics.
I find liking a color or not, is all in how the color and contrast is used. Now when I find myself ignoring or not liking a color, I use it as the main color in a quilt. By the time the quilt is done, I am in love with that color/colors. I particulaly love chanllenges to use a bit of “ugly” fabric or an unusal color combination.
When the idea or pattern is not right for me, often one of my sisters will think it is perfect. When I toss a fabric, they catch it and make something beautiful out of it. I have seen orphan blocks and UFO projects turned into eye catching quilts by members of my quilt guild.
One of the best things about quilting is there is so many options and variables that there is something exactly right for each person exactly when they need it. I am quite sure that no matter how my life changes, as I change and grow, there will be more perfect options for me to choose from too.
Susan in Ga
I think being able to consider both sides of anything a good way to live. My husband taught me that even more than how I used to look at things when we met in 2000. Before that time I had a hard time really taking into consideration any idea that was not in line with my own thinking. But, in doing so, it meant that I was not allowing my mind to really take into account another person’s idea. In having a closed mind that way I feel a persons’ creativity is also held back.
If you are only open to hearing one side of something then you may miss out on a new way of doing something. An example in the quilting world for that would be the numerous ways of making flying geese blocks. In the end, each new way I have seen on my road to learning to quilt still have a beautifully created block. Of all those ways to go about creating that block that is not the ‘original’ way of doing so those new ‘options’ to try may work much better/easier for some whereas doing this block the old fashioned way may create stress for those very same people and frustrate them to the point that they gave up even trying. So seeing a new way to create that same flying geese block may allow those people to make them and have them turn out perfectly. Keeping an open mind for those people mean that they now too can create a beautiful quilt using the flying geese when before using that old fashioned way meant they would never have that block in any of their quilts. Imagine if they had seen the new way to create that block and said to themselves that’s NOT the way they are supposed to be done so I’m not even going to try this new way because surely it must be wrong. Having an open mind and seeing both sides of learning for them has opened up many doors they once previously had closed out of frustration.
There are so many things in life that we should alway try to see both sides. Another of those hot button topics is how to raise your chlidren. How many ways of things while raising your child have someone else telling you that this or that should be done ‘this/their’ way after that other person saw you doing it another way? In the end doesn’t that child(rend) still end up the same way…..as an adult that has still learned to walk, talk, understand, learn and how to use a toilet? LOL No one way is THE only way to do it and in keeping your mind open you just might find the ‘other’ way to be the one that helps you do it much easier or better than you used to.
If I hadn’t kept an open mind in 2000, I never would have been in the most wonderful marriage that I am now. I would have found the perfect man who lived two states away and closed my mind right away in thinking it would never work because of the distance. But, that distance thing was a challenge we both overcame and we are now the happiest we have ever been in our adult lives. So yea, seeing both sides of anything can be a very good thing.
In the example given – who is to say that using that batting to make a quilt and then using the leftover pieces to help the enviornment and save paper/trees etc by using the scraps as a way to clean your floors is wrong? Not only does that help the environment but, saves money by not having to buy the cleaner things for that mop but the gas money going to buy them. In my opinion, the batting was purchased to use in a quilt. That was done and it turned out beautifully I’m sure. Now the leftovers were used for another purpose. If that isn’t a good thing then by that same thought process after we’ve made a big meal and have leftovers, then they must be used the same exact way as they originally were used. This would mean when you have leftovers that means you can’t take them and use the rest of your pot roast dinner and make that into beef pot pies for another meal. You must make the same pot roast meal with those leftovers, nothing else. That sounds kinda boring to me.
Open minds are creative minds in my opinion.
I totally understand the conflict. I have been dutifully saving those small bits known as crumbs, but find piecing them together time-consuming and tedious. On the other hand, I save bags full of bits too small to be crumbs & other pieces I consider to be unusable. Why do I save them? They become stuffing to make sleeping bags for the homeless (see sleepingbagproject.org).
I’ve never worried about the quilting police. It’s wonderful that the internet brings so many ideas to us. I pick and choose what works for me and throw in some of my own. I’m going to start using my smaller batting scraps for dusting now.
Not only am I open-minded, I am greedy! When I have scraps that I am inclined to toss, I ask myself, do I know a quilter who would love this scrap? If I answer yes,(which is usually) I put said scrap in “her” plastic zip bag to give her when I see her next. Often, our meeting will happen at Guild when I will be delivering numerous gift bags of scraps and in return receive my share of “saves”. This continuous cycle of trading means that I have a stash only of my favorites, and no pile of unwanteds,..even batting, the scraps of which go to the friend who stuffs new doggy beds for the animal shelter!
I used throw or blanket for batting. Save cost and lighter. Of course, can’t last long but it’s the reason to make a new quilt again.
Wow, I really like your choice of extreme opinions of left-over batting
You ask how I feel, what my opinion is? Opening my mind to new ways of achieving the same ‘ending’ or walking opposing streets to reach the same location is how I LEARN. With learning something new or seeing the same item differently is stimulating to me, ya know the lightbulb gets brighter moment 
when my brain is soo filled-up with ‘little, now worthless bits of old info…..can’t recall what I want to, yet I know it’s up there in the brain’ I’ll just forget some stuff to make room for the new 
And to look at the opposing side
Use and reuse. We need to go back to the old ways, and not be such a throw-a-way world! I am an avid quilter and right now on a very limited budget so I use everything, my new thing is using zippers from the plastic bags that new sheets come in. They are very easy to remove and are very durable.
I really try not to throw away anything that has usable life left in it. If I can’t use it myself, I find a a good home for it. The back seat of my car is always full of things to be donated, or recycled. People who know me, know that. I am always getting bags and boxes of other people’s cast offs. Sometimes there are treasures in there for me, sometimes, “Yikes!”, but those make the best stories.
Batting scraps have so many great uses! Small ones are great for cleaning up your cutting mat with. Medium size are great for making quilted bags. Large pieces I’ve pieced together to fill wall hanging size quilts. But if my collection gets too large then I have to begin discarding.
If its big enough for a hot plate its big enough to keep.
I like to make needle cases. You can place a piece of batting, single layer or if it is big enough you can fold it in half. I have made some of these for the nursing home where I work for the lil grannies that sew! Also, good to make eye glass cases, or quilted walker handle covers, mug cozies. Any small “quilty” item!
All those scraps would make a darling dolls quilt for my Grandaughter’s doll Bubba!I use my scraps to make crazy blocks to use in future quilts.Nothing is wasted not even the batting bits.