FABSCRAP: Match Rescued Fabric to the Project You’ll Sew

FABSCRAP Brooklyn Reuse Room, located at 140 58th Street, Building B, Unit 5H-3 in Sunset Park, offers public shopping for rescued fabric, trims, and more. If you’re considering a sewing project and want to use recovered textiles, your first step is to measure your pattern and decide how flexible your design can be. This will help you match your needs to the available materials, which can range from small scraps to full yardage, as well as leather, trims, embellishments, and yarn cones sourced from designers.

Matching Fabric to Your Project

Before heading to the Brooklyn Army Terminal, take time to measure each pattern piece and tally the total yardage required. If your project can accommodate piecing together smaller cuts or mixing textures, you’ll have more options among the rescued materials. For example, a patchwork tote bag or a color-blocked skirt can make creative use of smaller scraps, while a tailored dress may require more continuous yardage. Consider bringing a list of minimum dimensions for each piece you need. Include the usable width, not just the total length. Check whether your pattern needs a particular stretch direction, whether a print must run one way, and whether a repeat needs matching across seams. Those constraints can turn seemingly generous yardage into an insufficient cut. Before cutting at home, establish the care requirements and whether your fabric needs prewashing; avoid assuming that every recovered material can be treated the same way.

Planning Your Visit

FABSCRAP’s reuse room is open for public fabric shopping, and its shopping page is the place to check the current visit arrangements. If you want to avoid a wasted trip, check the shop’s website for any updates or contact them directly to confirm current hours and any visitor guidelines. If you’re interested in a particular type of material—such as leather for accessories or yarn for knitting—prepare a list of your priorities so you can search efficiently once you arrive.

Shopping Options: In-Person and Online

You can shop in person at the reuse room or place an online order for pickup. If you’re looking for something specific or want help matching fabric to your project, FABSCRAP describes a 30-minute virtual custom-order appointment. This could be useful if you have a detailed supply list or need guidance on what’s available. For online orders, clarify pickup procedures and timelines before finalizing your purchase.

Navigating the Warehouse Location

The reuse room is inside Brooklyn Army Terminal, a large complex. Plan your route in advance using current MTA directions and service updates, as transit options may change. If you’re carrying bulky materials home, consider how you’ll transport them—whether by subway, bus, or car. For those with mobility needs, ask about step-free entrance, interior circulation, and any access arrangements you require before your visit.

What to Bring and Ask Onsite

Bring a tape measure, your pattern notes, and a tote or bag for carrying purchases. Since the selection is based on what’s been recovered from designers, availability of specific fibers, colors, or trims can vary. If you have requirements for fiber content or minimum cut sizes, ask staff what’s currently in stock and whether they can help you locate suitable materials. If you’re planning a group visit or need to donate fabric, contact the shop in advance to confirm any procedures.

Making the Most of Rescued Materials

Recovered textiles can inspire creative solutions. If you’re open to improvising, you might find unique trims or embellishments to enhance your project. For example, a roll of designer ribbon could become a statement belt, or a small piece of leather might work for bag handles. If your project is less flexible, such as matching dye lots for a garment, be prepared to adapt your plan or combine materials in new ways.

Before You Go

Check FABSCRAP’s website for the latest information on hours, shopping policies, and available services. Ask about accessibility if you have specific needs, and confirm directions to Building B, Unit 5H-3 within Brooklyn Army Terminal. If you’re interested in a virtual appointment or online order pickup, clarify the process and any lead times. Bring your measurements and a flexible mindset to make the most of the rescued fabric selection.