Are you a fabric hoarder? As a way to use some of my mountains of fabulous tiny scraps, I made these fabric-and-button barrettes. They’re fun, easy, and great for using little stashed vintage textile treasures and lonely buttons. You can make them in coordinating pairs or fun singles.

Project Steps

Select and cut.

Cut ironed scraps of fabric into rectangles just larger than the barrettes. Choose cute buttons.

Glue.

Apply hot glue generously to the top of the barrette. Use pliers to hold the barrette open while gluing.

Apply and trim fabric.

Position the fabric on top of the hot glue. Press evenly as the glue cools, with medium firmness. Allow to cool completely. Trim around the barrette, taking care to leave a slight edge (less than 5″) to allow for any needed fabric expansion when you close the barrette.

Optional fixative.

Spray the entire fabric side of the barrette with no-fray spray. Allow it to dry completely.

Glue button on.

Dollop hot glue onto the back of the button. Then, with the barrette open, position the button where you want it. Press slowly and evenly. Leave it to cool on the open barrette.

Conclusion

This project first appeared in CRAFT VOLUME 10, page 76.