What can I make out of small upholstery samples, about 5 x 7?

a shag carpet?

You could make a crazy quilt https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crazy_quilting

Picture frame borders of pictures.

You could use them in picture frames to back pictures with a nice border. You could use them to make doll quilts for the kids/grandkids dolls. Sew them together to cover pillows, there are a lot of things you can do if you think about it.

Sew them together to make a cute tote bag purse.

They are perfect for making rice bags or even a quilt. Rice bags are super for heating in the microwave and using for aching muscles or even to put on sinus infections etc. The moist heat helps drain the sinuses. We use them on the chest for any upper respiratory infections and sore aches and pains. Fill 2 squares sewn together loosely with rice and you have rice bags to use over and over. We give them away as gifts or even sell them at garage sales. They can also be frozen to use as ice packs for injuries. The moisture in rice makes them perfect for either application.

Throw pillows, sew them together to make a larger square.