Fabric Scrap Mache Bowl
These charming little bowls are made entirely from leftover fabric and a bit of Mod Podge. They’re lightweight, colorful, and perfect for holding small treasures or simply decorating a cozy shelf. This is a fun, low-cost way to use up scraps and bring handmade texture into any room.
Yield: 1 bowl
Cost: $3
Equipment
- 6" bowl
- Pencil
- Fabric scissors
- small foam paint brush
- Craft scissors
Materials
- fabric scraps
- mod podge
- balloon
Instructions
- Trace fabric rounds: Use a bowl and pencil to trace circles on the wrong side of your fabric scraps.
- Cut fabric shapes: Cut out approximately 18 rounds using fabric scissors, trimming inside the pencil line to avoid marks.
- Inflate balloon: Blow up the balloon to the size you want your finished bowl to be.
- Stabilize balloon: Place the balloon (tied end down) in the bowl to hold it steady.
- Apply base layer: Brush a layer of Mod Podge onto the balloon in the area where the bowl will form.
- Add first layer of fabric: Press 6 fabric rounds onto the Mod Podge area with the right side of the fabric facing in toward the balloon. Apply Mod Podge over each one.
- Add second and third layers: Repeat with two more layers of fabric rounds (about 6 per layer), this time with the right side of the fabric facing out. Mod Podge each round as you go.
- Dry completely: Let the bowl dry on the balloon for at least 24 hours in a well-ventilated space.
- Remove and trim: Pop the balloon and gently peel it away from the inside of the bowl. Use craft scissors to trim the edge cleanly, removing any visible fabric backs.
Video
Notes
- Use a mix of prints: Combining solids and patterns adds depth and charm to the finished piece.
- Adjust size easily: Choose a larger or smaller balloon depending on how big or petite you'd like your bowl.
- Skip perfection: Slight overlap or wrinkles in the fabric just add to the handmade appeal.
- Storage: These bowls are for decorative or light storage only. Avoid filling them with heavy items.
