Transforming T-Shirts Into Bandanas: A Creative Diy Guide

Bandanas are a versatile accessory, but you don't need to buy one new. You can easily make one from a T-shirt you already own. This is a great way to upcycle old clothing and create something unique. You can use a simple no-sew method, or stitch it by hand or with a machine.

Choose a T-shirt with hems

When choosing a T-shirt to make a bandana, it is important to select one with hems. The hem is the folded edge of a garment that is sewn to prevent unravelling and keep the fabric from fraying. By choosing a T-shirt with hems, you can save time and effort in the bandana-making process.

Look for T-shirts with hems on the sides, around the sleeves, or near the shoulders. These hems can be preserved and incorporated into your bandana design. When cutting the T-shirt, ensure you cut along the far side of the hem to retain it. You can cut up the sides, around the sleeves, and around the collar, removing the front, sleeves, and collar of the shirt. This will result in a bandana-shaped piece of fabric with the hem still intact.

The presence of hems on a T-shirt can be advantageous when creating a bandana, as it eliminates the need to create new hems. This can be especially useful if you are not experienced in sewing or prefer a quicker crafting process.

Additionally, consider the size of the T-shirt when selecting one with hems. Bandanas are typically around 2 feet by 2 feet in size. Choose a T-shirt that is close to this size to minimise the cutting and alterations needed.

By choosing a T-shirt with hems and considering the size, you can simplify the process of making a bandana and create a unique and functional accessory.

Lay the T-shirt flat and cut it

To make a bandana from a T-shirt, you'll first need to lay the T-shirt flat on a surface and cut it. The process is quite simple but requires careful measurements and precision. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

• Lay the T-shirt flat: Smooth out any creases or wrinkles on the T-shirt and lay it on a flat surface, such as a table or a clean floor. Ensure that the T-shirt is completely unfolded and there are no bumps or folds that could affect your measurements and cutting.
• Measure the T-shirt: Using a measuring tape or a yardstick, measure the T-shirt to determine the size of the bandana you want to create. A standard adult bandana is typically 22 inches (56 cm) long on each side, while larger bandanas are about 27 inches (68.5 cm). If you're making a bandana for a child, aim for a size of 18 inches (46 cm).
• Mark the cutting lines: Using a fabric marker or a washable marker, mark the cutting lines on the T-shirt based on the measurements you've decided on. You can also use a ruler or a straight edge to ensure that your lines are straight and accurate.
• Cut the T-shirt: Carefully cut along the marked lines with a pair of sharp fabric scissors. Try to cut in a smooth, fluid motion to achieve a straight edge. If you're cutting through multiple layers of fabric, you may need to cut slowly and with a bit more force.
• Consider the hem: If you want a hemmed bandana, you'll need to add an extra ½ inch (12 mm) to the measurements to allow for a seam allowance. This will give you enough fabric to fold over and create a neat hem.
• Create a square bandana: Bandanas are typically square, so if you're cutting from a T-shirt, you'll want to cut a square shape. The easiest way to cut a square from a T-shirt is to fold one edge into a triangle and then cut along the measured side.
• Prepare the edges: If you're leaving the edges raw, your bandana is almost ready to wear. However, keep in mind that the edges may fray slightly over time. If you want to add a simple hem, proceed to the next step.
• Iron the edges: If you plan to hem the bandana, use an iron to press and fold the raw edges of the fabric. Fold the edges over by about ¼ inch (6 mm), and then fold them over again to create a neat double-fold hem. This will prevent fraying and give your bandana a polished look.
• Stitch the hem: You can hand-stitch the hem using a simple running stitch or use a sewing machine for a quicker finish. If hand-stitching, thread your needle with cotton, doubling it over and knotting the end. Hide the knot by putting the needle into the fold of the hem. Use an up-and-down motion to stitch all around the hem, making small stitches for added strength.

By following these steps, you can create a bandana from a T-shirt with a neat, finished edge. This project is an excellent way to upcycle old T-shirts and create unique, personalised accessories.

Cut a square shape

To make a bandana from a t-shirt, you'll first need to cut a square shape from the t-shirt fabric. Here's a step-by-step guide to cutting a square for your bandana:

• Lay the T-shirt Flat: Spread out the t-shirt on a flat surface. If your t-shirt is folded, make sure to lay it out completely flat.
• Measure and Mark: Use a measuring tape or a ruler to measure the desired size of your bandana. Bandanas are typically around 2 feet (61 cm) on each side. Mark the measurements on the t-shirt fabric with a fabric marker or a pencil.
• Cutting the Square: Carefully cut along the marked lines to create a square. If your t-shirt has hems that you want to include in your bandana, make sure to cut along the far side of the hem to preserve it.
• Adjustments: Once you've cut the square, try on your bandana to check the size. If it feels too large, you can trim it down, keeping in mind that you'll need to allow for hemming, which typically reduces the size by about ½-2 inches (1.25-5 cm).
• Hemming Preparation: If you plan to hem your bandana, decide on the width of your hem. A medium hem of about 2 inches (5 cm) is a good starting point. This will involve folding and pressing the fabric to create a neat edge.
• Fold and Press: Fold the edges of the fabric according to your chosen hem width. For a medium hem, you'd fold ½ inch (1.25 cm) of fabric under, then press it with an iron. Repeat this step, folding another 1½ inches (3.8 cm) to create a double-folded edge.
• Pinning: Pin the folded hem in place to secure it and ensure a straight edge. Adjust the fabric as needed and repress with the iron to correct any crooked folds.
• Sewing: Finally, sew the hem in place. You can use a sewing machine or hand stitch with a needle and thread. Double the thread for added durability. Stitch through all layers of the folded fabric, starting from the reverse side to hide the knot.

Remember, it's always better to make the bandana slightly larger than you think you need, as you can easily trim off excess fabric, but it's more challenging to add fabric back on.

Tie the bandana

Now that you have your bandana, it's time to tie it! There are several ways to do this, depending on where you want to wear it. Here are some options:

Around Your Neck

You can wear your bandana around your neck so that it hangs in a triangular shape at the base of your neck.

On Your Head

• Headband style: Fold the bandana into a long, narrow strip. Then wrap the strip around your head and tie it at the back.
• As a cap: Lay the bandana on a flat surface. Take a corner and fold it towards the centre. The farther you fold it, the smaller the bandana will be on your head. Once you know how big a fold you need, press the folded edge and section to your forehead. Maneuver your hands to the back and grab the left and right corners. Make sure the middle corner is flipped back on top of your head. Tie a simple knot with the left and right corners at the back of your head. Bring the middle corner down to rest above the knot you tied. Take the left and right corners again and tie another knot, securing the middle corner between the two knots. You can pull the middle corner to adjust the bandana.
• Pirate style: Fold your bandana into a triangle. Place it on your head and tie the ends behind your head.

Other Ways

• As a scarf: Fold the bandana in half diagonally so it becomes a triangle, then tie it around your neck.
• As a neck or hairband: Place the bandana in a diamond shape in front of you and roll it up. Wrap it around your neck or hair and tie a knot.

Decorate the bandana

Now that you have cut out your bandana, you can decorate it to make it unique and significant to you. Here are some ways to do so:

Choose the Prime Decorating Location

Depending on how you plan to wear your bandana, the best location for your decorations will vary. For example, if you plan on wearing your bandana along your neck in a triangular shape, you'll likely want your design with its bottom pointed towards the corner and located in the corner of the fabric. It may be helpful to put on your bandana and mark the fabric with a pencil or washable fabric marker on the spot that best presents your decoration.

Iron or Sew on Patches

Patches are a great way to represent your favourite bands, games, sports teams, and more. Some patches are heat-activated and can be attached to your bandana with an iron, while others may need to be stitched to be held in place. Your local fabric store may be a good place to look for patches, but for specific designs, an online retailer might provide the best selection.

Use Wash-Safe Fabric Paint to Make Designs

By using fabric paint, you can create designs that are unique and significant to you. In some cases, you may need painting supplies like a brush and water, but some fabric paints come in marker applicators. Many general retailers, art retailers, and craft stores have assorted fabric paints to choose from. Be sure to choose one that won't come out in the wash! You may want to use a fabric stencil so that your finished painted designs look more professional.

Draw Designs with Wash-Safe Fabric Markers

Fabric markers may be more familiar and easy to use than paint, especially if you don't have much painting experience. For the best results, you may want to first draw your design in a washable fabric marker, then follow this with your wash-safe markers. Depending on your fabric, you may also be able to use a pencil to sketch out your designs before using a more permanent medium.

Decorate the Edges

Bandana edges can be decorated with pom-pom trim, ric-rac, or even tassels. Decorate it with scattered sequins, or use your creativity to make something unique.

Frequently asked questions