How to Make a Patchwork Shawl from Fabric Scraps

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A patchwork shawl is a beautiful way to transform leftover fabric into a cozy and stylish garment. The shawl shown in the photo features a strip patchwork design, where fabric strips are sewn together diagonally to create a classic herringbone-style pattern. Finished with a soft lining and a standing collar, it is perfect for cool autumn and winter days.

This tutorial will guide beginners through every step of the process.

Skill Level

Beginner to Intermediate

Approximate sewing time:

Cutting: 1–2 hours
Piecing the patchwork: 2–3 hours
Assembly and finishing: 2 hours

Total: 5–7 hours

Finished Size

Approximately:

Width: 58 inches (147 cm)
Length: 28 inches (71 cm)

You may easily adjust the measurements to your preference.

Materials

Fabrics

Assorted cotton fabric scraps
Coordinating floral prints
Vintage-style prints
Neutral cream fabrics
One large backing fabric
Soft fleece, flannel, or cotton batting
Lining fabric (cotton or flannel)

Supplies

Sewing machine
Rotary cutter
Cutting mat
Quilting ruler
Fabric scissors
Pins or sewing clips
Iron
Thread
Measuring tape
Fabric marker

Step 1 – Select Your Fabric Palette

Choose fabrics that coordinate well together.

For a vintage-inspired shawl like the photo, use:

Dusty teal
Burgundy
Cream
Olive green
Soft pink
Floral prints
Paisley fabrics

Mix:

Small floral prints
Tiny geometric prints
Tone-on-tone fabrics
Medium-scale patterns

The more variety you use, the richer the finished design will appear.

Step 2 – Cut the Fabric Strips

Cut strips measuring:

2½ inches (6.5 cm) wide

Length may vary depending on your fabric scraps.

Prepare approximately:

60–80 strips

Press every strip before sewing.

Step 3 – Arrange the Design

Lay the strips on a large table.

Alternate:

Light
Medium
Dark

Avoid placing identical prints next to one another.

Rotate strips until you are happy with the overall balance.

Take a photo before sewing.

Step 4 – Sew the Patchwork Panels

Place two strips right sides together.

Sew using a:

¼-inch seam allowance

Press seams open or to one side.

Continue adding strips one at a time until you create a large fabric panel.

Step 5 – Create the Diagonal Layout

The shawl in the photo features diagonal strip sections.

To achieve this effect:

Cut your completed strip panel into wide diagonal sections.

Rotate every other section 180 degrees.

Arrange them into a chevron or herringbone layout.

Sew the sections together carefully.

Press all seams flat.

Step 6 – Cut the Shawl Shape

Fold the patchwork panel in half.

Using a large piece of paper, create a rounded shawl pattern.

Typical measurements:

Neck opening: 8–9 inches
Shoulder width: 18–20 inches
Rounded front edges

Pin the pattern onto the fabric.

Cut carefully.

Step 7 – Prepare the Lining

Place the finished patchwork on top of the lining fabric.

Cut an identical piece.

If desired, also cut:

Cotton batting
Lightweight fusible fleece

for added warmth.

Step 8 – Quilt the Layers

Layer:

Patchwork top
Batting
Lining

Pin thoroughly.

Quilt by sewing:

Straight lines
Diagonal lines
Gentle curves

This stabilizes the fabric while adding texture.

Step 9 – Make the Collar

Cut a rectangle approximately:

5 inches wide
Long enough to fit around the neckline

Fold in half lengthwise.

Sew the short ends together.

Attach the collar to the neckline.

Topstitch neatly.

Step 10 – Finish the Edges

You can finish the outer edges using:

Option 1

Bias binding

Option 2

Turn the edges inward twice and topstitch.

Option 3

Sew patchwork and lining right sides together, then turn the shawl right side out for a clean finish.

Step 11 – Add the Closure

The shawl in the photo uses a decorative frog closure.

Other options include:

Wooden toggle buttons
Large decorative buttons
Magnetic clasp
Ribbon ties
Vintage brooch

Position the closure comfortably near the neckline.

Optional Embellishments

To personalize your shawl, consider adding:

Decorative hand embroidery
Lace trim
Decorative quilting
Appliqué flowers
Handmade fabric labels
Vintage buttons

Helpful Tips for Beginners

Press every seam before adding the next strip.
Keep a consistent ¼-inch seam allowance.
Mix solids with prints for visual balance.
Sew slowly when joining diagonal sections.
Lay the project flat often to check alignment.
Label your strip sections before assembling.

Fabric Suggestions

This project is ideal for using leftover fabrics from previous quilting projects, including:

Quilt scraps
Fat quarters
Jelly roll strips
Vintage cotton fabrics
Floral collections
Reproduction fabrics

Final Thoughts

A patchwork scrap fabric shawl is both practical and artistic. By combining colorful fabric strips into a diagonal patchwork design, you can create a warm, elegant garment that showcases your creativity while making excellent use of fabric leftovers. Each shawl is unique, telling its own story through color, texture, and pattern—making it a timeless handmade accessory you’ll enjoy wearing for many years.