Orphan Blocks or as I call them, Independent Blocks

Many people call their extra blocks, "Orphan blocks", but I think that sounds sad. So I call mine, "Independent blocks" because there are so many possibilities. For example, I used two of my independent blocks to make a gift bag for the two sided lap quilt I just finished. 

The recipient can use the bag to store the quilt or use it for anything, including a green grocery bag. I lined the inside of the bag and used a French seam to give it a finished look. 

Other ways that I have used my independent blocks are: pot holders, hot pads, pillows, and for the front of plain shirts. 

Some ideas that I have not yet done are: baby bibs, burping cloths, and bottle holders/insulators (baby and water bottles).