12 Ways to Use Scraps of Fabric or Ribbon in Your Christmas Decor

If you sew, craft, or just save “good ribbon” from packages, you probably have a drawer full of odds and ends. Those scraps don’t have to sit there taking up space—small pieces can actually make your decor feel more pulled together.

The trick is using them in simple, repeated ways so it looks intentional and not like a scrap pile exploded.

Tie bows on tree branches

You don’t need enough ribbon to wrap the whole tree. Small lengths work well as simple bows tied directly on branches. Stick to one or two colors and scatter them evenly.

It fills in visual gaps without adding more ornaments, and it’s easy to remove at the end of the season. Plus, it’s very forgiving—kids can help without ruining anything.

Dress up plain ornaments

Wrap narrow ribbon or fabric strips around the tops of plain ornaments and tie a small knot or bow. You can also loop a strip through the hanger instead of using hooks.

This gives basic ornaments a finished look and ties them into your color scheme without buying a new set.

Create simple napkin ties

If you’re using cloth napkins—or even paper ones—wrap a thin strip of fabric or ribbon around the middle and tie a quick knot. Tuck in a small piece of greenery or a cinnamon stick if you want to be fancy.

You don’t need every place setting to match perfectly. Using similar textures and tones will make the table look coordinated.

Make mini wreaths for cabinet doors

Wrap ribbon or fabric strips around small embroidery hoops, jar rings, or wire circles. Hang them on kitchen cabinets or pantry doors with more ribbon taped on the inside.

It’s a small change that makes the kitchen feel more in-season without having to clear counters or add clutter.

Use as jar and candle wraps

Cut strips wide enough to wrap around jars, vases, or candle holders. Secure with tape, glue dots, or twine. Mix solids and patterns, but keep the colors within the same rough family.

Group a few together on a tray for a simple centerpiece. You get a layered, soft look using things you already had.

Turn fabric into no-sew ornaments

Cut fabric into circles or squares, wrap around stuffing or a crumpled paper ball, and tie at the top with ribbon or twine. Add a loop to hang.

They look like little fabric baubles and can match pillows or throws you already own, pulling the room together without a big purchase.

Upgrade gift tags

Punch small holes in scraps of fabric or ribbon and tie them through standard gift tags. You can also glue a short piece of fabric to the bottom edge of a tag for a layered look.

It makes wrapped gifts look more thoughtful, even when you’re using simple paper and bags.

Add detail to stockings

Sew or glue a strip of fabric or ribbon along the cuff of a stocking, or create a small bow at the side. You can also add initials cut from fabric onto plain stockings.

It’s a quick way to customize budget stockings so they look more personal and “finished” without buying a full new set.

Make hanging loops for ornaments and decor

Use stronger scraps as hanging loops for heavier ornaments, small frames, or lightweight signs. Ribbon or folded fabric strips look nicer than string and are often sturdier.

This works especially well if original loops or hangers break and you don’t want to toss the item.

Create garlands

Tie scraps of fabric or ribbon along a long piece of twine or thicker ribbon, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Keep them relatively short so they don’t tangle easily.

Hang the garland on a mantle, headboard, or over a window. It’s a good way to use up smaller pieces that aren’t big enough for much else.

Dress up baskets and storage

Tie small bows around basket handles, storage bins, or the corners of blankets draped on ladders. You’re working with what’s already there, just giving it a little detail.

This can make everyday storage look like part of your decor instead of something you’re trying to hide.

Save the best scraps for next year

If you still have good pieces left, fold them and store them in a clear bag or small container labeled “Christmas fabric/ribbon.” Having them collected in one place means you’ll actually use them next year instead of letting them drift around drawers.

The goal isn’t to keep every scrap forever—it’s to keep the ones you’ll truly use and let them earn their space.