I have upcycled a favorite quilt of mine that had taken on some threadbaring overtime.  However, there was enough good fabric I could use in smaller projects.  I took a bit of the leftovers and Dyed them in my pot.  Created some beatiful smaller projects.  This particular project is a heart filled sachet with dried lavender & then adorned with a small peony, some greenery & some pearl stick pins.  I've also added some crochet lace. 
 
Just enough grunge for your primitive decor and just enough of a pretty lil' thing to make it perfect for your cottage decor.