Randstücke

Randstücke is a German noun (plural Randstücke; singular Randstück) meaning small fragments or scraps that remain at the edge or border of a larger piece. The term is descriptive rather than technical and is used across different domains to refer to leftovers produced by cutting, processing, or assembly.

In manufacturing and crafts, Randstücke denote offcuts of materials such as wood, metal, fabric, or plastic. They are typically too small or irregular for the main product but can be reused, recycled, or repurposed for smaller items or prototypes. In art and design, Randstücke can refer to found or leftover pieces used in collage, assemblage, or mosaic practices.

In literature and editorial contexts, Randstücke may describe marginal notes, fragments, or unfinished portions of a manuscript or edition. The word is likewise used metaphorically to refer to neglected or marginal elements within a collection, archive, or discourse.

Environmentally, the concept aligns with waste reduction and circular economy aims, emphasizing the value of reusing offcuts rather than discarding them. The term is common in German-speaking regions, where everyday speech and technical jargon alike employ Randstücke to describe leftovers from various processes. While it does not imply a specific category, its precise meaning depends on the material or context involved.