14 Uses For Those Leftover Paper Scraps

While I'm working my way through our South Dakota trip scrapbook, I'm purposely using as many scraps of card stock and decorator paper as I can. These hidden journal blocks under each picture are a great example of how to cut up some squares of paper and give them new life as a place to write without losing precious space on the page.

But what about the rest of the scraps? The ones that are too dark to write on or too small or shaped oddly? If you can relate to this pile, read on.

Squares of paper can be cut diagonally for instant corners.

Create a mosaic background with coordinating colors and patterns.

Use a letter punch or stencils to cut out individual alphabet letters.

Larger scraps are perfect for photo mats. You can even cut the middle out of the mat first and use it for something else.

Overlap long strips in a basket-weave pattern for a background or border.

Light neutrals and white, double-sided paper can be turned into notepads.

Layer scraps on the front of tiny note cards.

Cut long strips to use as bookmarks.

If you have enough scraps, you can create a whole mini album with leftovers.

Cut two corners off a rectangle to make a tag.

Fold scraps in half to make tabs for folders.

Challenge yourself to make a card, or set of cards, using nothing but scraps.

Fussy-cut patterned paper to create coordinating embellishments.

What have these ideas inspired you to do with your scraps today?