Scrap Fabric Project: DIY Braided Fabric Sign

Whether you’re a sewing fanatic or a run-of-the-mill crafter, chances are you have some scrap fabric lying around.

And, chances are also that you’re in need of scrap fabric project ideas to help pare down that fabric stash.

I’ve got you! Why not make a braided fabric sign? It’s a great scrap fabric project that you can customize to fit your taste and needs.

I created this adorable braided fabric scrap sign with some leftover fabric that my kids tie-dyed a few weeks ago.  

This cute braided fabric scrap sign is already hanging in a gallery wall in my basement. It is the perfect addition to the wall, and I love that it brings some texture and dimension to the arrangement!  

Scrap Fabric Project Supplies

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• Unfinished wood sign
• White acrylic paint
• Approximately 1/3 yard of fabric
• Glue that bonds fabric and wood
• Fabric scissors
• Pencil

Instructions to Make a DIY Fabric Scrap Sign

So first off, you’ve got to find some scrap fabric.  If you want a colorful, tie-dyed look like I have, then I recommend you find yourself some kids to do the dirty work for you.  

Luckily, I had two that were more than willing to dye my plain, linen fabric after they’d finished making themselves some t-shirts.  Notice that in addition to dyeing the fabric, they dyed their skin.  Super.

Once you’ve selected the fabric, cut a big pile of fabric strips that are pretty darn long.  

And then (shocker), braid them. Yep, tie a knot at one end, braid them, and then tie a knot at the other end.  

Once you’ve got the fabric part of this project together, spray paint (or brush paint), your unfinished wood sign however you like!

Once the paint has fully dried, lightly write out the word you want on your sign. I tried to photograph this, but my writing was so light you couldn’t even see it.

Then, work in small segments and lightly cover your written letters with a thin, even coat of glue.  Press the braided fabric down onto the glue as you go.

To help keep the letters in place and attach them to the wood board, use small, heavy objects. These full food cans worked perfectly for me!

If you end up with braided fabric that is too long for your sign, just untie the knot at the end, tie a new knot, and cut off the excess fabric.  Easy!

Make sure to let the glue thoroughly dry before hanging. You don’t want the letters falling off!

This project is really pretty and a perfect way to use up any scrap fabric that you have lying around.