Cassie Cartmell – Faodail Creation

Scrapbuster Coaster Tutorial: Turn Fabric Scraps Into a Beautiful Quilted Coaster

A scrapbuster coaster is one of the easiest and most satisfying sewing projects you can make. If you have a pile of leftover fabric scraps from quilting or sewing projects, this simple tutorial will help you turn them into something useful and beautiful.
This scrapbuster coaster project is perfect for beginners, quilters, and anyone who wants a quick sewing project. The finished coaster is round, quilted, and made using small fabric squares, making it ideal for using up those tiny pieces of fabric that would otherwise go to waste.
Not only is this scrapbuster coaster practical, but it also adds a handmade touch to your home dรฉcor. You can customize the colors, patterns, and fabrics to match your kitchen, sewing room, or gift theme.
In this tutorial, you will learn how to sew a scrapbuster coaster step-by-step, including cutting fabric pieces, assembling the quilted block, quilting the layers, and finishing the coaster with a clean envelope backing.
Why Make a Scrapbuster Coaster
A scrapbuster coaster is a fantastic project for many reasons.
First, it helps reduce fabric waste. Many quilters and sewers accumulate small leftover pieces of fabric that are too small for larger projects. This coaster project is specifically designed to use those scraps.
Second, the scrapbuster coaster is quick to sew. You can easily complete one in less than an hour, making it a great project when you want something fun and relaxing to sew.
Third, this project is beginner-friendly. If you have never sewn a quilt block before, this tutorial is a great place to start. The simple grid layout makes it easy to practice basic quilting skills.
Finally, a scrapbuster coaster makes a thoughtful handmade gift. You can create sets of coasters using coordinating fabrics for birthdays, holidays, or housewarming gifts.
Materials Needed for a Scrapbuster Coaster
Before you begin sewing your scrapbuster coaster, gather the following materials.
Fabric Pieces
- 25 fabric squares measuring 2 inches by 2 inches
- 12 solid squares
- 13 patterned squares
You can mix and match fabrics however you like, but alternating solid and patterned fabrics creates a beautiful checkerboard effect in your scrapbuster coaster.
Backing Fabric
You will need:
- Two fabric pieces 8 inches wide by 6 inches tall
These will create the envelope-style backing for the coaster.
Batting
- One piece of quilt batting measuring approximately 8 x 8 inches
This layer adds softness and structure to your coaster.
Tools
To make your coaster, you will also need:
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Pins
- Iron
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
- Pinking shears (optional)
- Compass
- Cardboard for template
- Marker or felt tip pen

How to Make a Circle Template for Your Scrapbuster Coaster
Before assembling the coaster, you need a 6-inch circle template.
This template will help you cut the finished coaster into its final shape.
Steps to Create the Template
- Take a piece of cardboard.
- Use a compass set to 3 inches.
- Draw a circle from the center point.
- Cut out the circle.
You now have a 6-inch diameter template for your coaster.
Cardboard works best because it is sturdy and easy to trace around later in the project.

Sewing the Fabric Squares for Your Scrapbuster Coaster
The front of the coaster is made from five rows of five squares.
Step 1: Sew the First Row
Take two 2-inch squares and place them right sides together.
Sew them using a ยผ-inch seam allowance.
Add the next square to the row and sew again using the same seam allowance.
Continue adding squares until the row contains five squares.
When finished, trim the thread tails and gently finger press the seams.
Step 2: Press the Seams
Pressing is important when making a coaster because it helps reduce bulk.
You can press seams:
- Open
- Or toward the darker fabric
For small projects like this, pressing seams open works well and keeps the coaster flat.
After pressing, the first row of your coaster is complete.
Step 3: Make Five Rows
Repeat the same steps until you have five rows of five squares.
Each row should look like a small quilt strip.
By this stage, you are already creating the quilted top of your coaster.

Joining the Rows for Your Scrapbuster Coaster
Now it’s time to assemble the quilt block.
Step 1: Place Rows Right Sides Together
Take the first two rows and place them right sides together.
Match the seams so the squares align properly.
This is called nesting seams, which helps keep the squares straight.
Step 2: Sew the Rows
Sew along the row using a ยผ-inch seam allowance.
After sewing, press the seam open to reduce bulk.
Repeat this process until all five rows are sewn together.
At this point, you have completed the quilt block for your coaster.

Preparing the Envelope Back for the Scrapbuster Coaster
The back of this coaster uses an envelope closure.
This makes the project neat and professional without needing hand sewing.
Step 1: Fold the Edge
Take one backing piece.
Fold one long edge inward ยผ inch and press.
Fold it again ยผ inch and press once more.
Step 2: Stitch the Hem
Sew along the folded edge using a straight stitch.
Repeat this process with the second backing piece.
These finished edges will overlap when assembling the coaster.
Quilting the Scrapbuster Coaster
Now it’s time to quilt the coaster.
Step 1: Add the Batting
Place the batting on the wrong side of the quilt block.
Make sure everything is smooth and flat.
Step 2: Sew Straight Quilting Lines
Increase your stitch length to 3.0 mm.
Follow the seams and sew straight quilting lines across the block.
This quilting step gives the coaster texture and durability.

Cutting the Circle Shape for the Scrapbuster Coaster
Now you will use the circle template you made earlier.
Step 1: Trace the Circle
Place the 6-inch template on the back of the quilted block.
Trace around the circle using a marker.
Step 2: Add the Backing
Place one backing piece on the quilt block.
Then place the second backing piece on top, overlapping the first.
Pin the layers within the circle line.
Step 3: Sew the Circle
Sew directly along the traced circle.
Take your time and sew slowly to maintain the round shape of the coaster.

Trimming and Turning the Scrapbuster Coaster
Once sewn, remove the pins.
Use pinking shears to trim around the circle, leaving about ยผ inch seam allowance.
If you don’t have pinking shears, clip small notches around the curve.
This helps the edges of the coaster lay flat when turned.
Finishing Your Scrapbuster Coaster
Turn the coaster right side out through the envelope opening.
Use your fingers or a chopstick to gently push out the curved edges.
Press the coaster with an iron to give it a smooth, finished look.
Your coaster is now complete.

Scrapbuster Coaster Sewing Tips
Here are a few tips to make your coaster look professional.
Cut Fabric Accurately
Precise cutting ensures your squares line up neatly.
Press Often
Pressing after every step keeps the project flat.
Use Scrap Fabrics Creatively
Mix colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique coaster every time.
Final Thoughts on Making a Scrapbuster Coaster
This coaster is a fun and practical way to use leftover fabric scraps. Itโs quick to sew, beginner-friendly, and perfect for practicing quilting skills.
You can make a single scrapbuster coaster or create a whole set for gifts or home dรฉcor.
Once you start making these, you may find it hard to stop. Theyโre addictive, creative, and a great way to keep your scrap fabric stash under control.
Here is the link to the You Tube Tutorial: https://youtu.be/DXsq2DrVQG8?si=UeCPRlgVdlaJNQh-




















































