Yesterday I was tapping around Instagram, finding new inspiration and ideas. While doing this, I came across something called “snippet rolls.” I spotted them on @willa.wanders’ account and she mentioned there were multiple YouTube videos to watch on the subject.
I like this video by Nic the Booksmith. It seemed the least fussy way to make a bunch at once. You can check out the video, but she uses Heat ‘n Bond Lite on a piece of backing fabric and then irons down scraps of fabric and trim. This was key for me making mine. I tried to sew without the Heat ‘n Bond, but my strips would not stay straight even with pinning.
Here is my rough layout before stitching, you can see how hard it would be to keep straight without the adhesive.
I should mention that I didn’t use all scraps for mine – a few, yes. I had a little stack of fabric I picked up in December and used it as an inspiration point. I auditioned different prints to find the right mix, then cut strips between .75″ and 1.5″ wide. I used a lot of selvedge pieces because I like the texture, and added tiny little scrappy pieces here and there to break up the even rows.
It took a lot of time to stitch the strips down. The Heat ‘n Bond does hold everything securely, but a lot of the pieces were overlapped and had loose edges. Sadly, I used the last of my beautiful pink lace. But, doesn’t it look perfect here? Hopefully my vintage shopping will bring me a few more pieces!
I couldn’t stop staring at this big panel. I love the zig zag stitches, the frayed edges – all of it.
I cut my panel into 7 – 2.5″ strips, and then joined the ends and sewed them together into one big strip. All together, I have 6 yards of trim.
Look how pretty it turned out! So, what can you do with a snippet roll? You can wrap a journal, embellish a sewing project, make a mixed media tag, all sorts of things. I could see adding a piece to the outside of a plain fabric book cover or a white denim tote.
I love this fabric pull so much that I might cut up the rest of these fabrics * and make a patchwork throw. That would be a nice new year project.
*I did cut up the fabric for a throw. Here’s a peek:
Making the snippet roll was so fun. If you want to see more on Instagram, just search the hashtag #snippetroll. There’s so much beautiful inspiration!
