Creative Projects With T-Shirt Yarn: Fun Crafts To Try

T-shirt yarn is a versatile craft material that can be used to create a wide range of items, from fashion accessories to home decor. With T-shirt yarn, you can make stylish accessories such as necklaces, bracelets, bags, and purses. It is also perfect for creating cosy items like rugs, baskets, and even pet beds. For those looking to organise their space, T-shirt yarn is great for crafting storage boxes and baskets. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crafter, T-shirt yarn offers endless possibilities for creative exploration and practical projects.

Baskets and storage tubs

T-shirt yarn is a great way to upcycle old t-shirts into functional and adorable baskets and storage tubs. The yarn is sturdy, soft, and machine washable, making it perfect for storage in any room of the house.

Braided Basket

To make a braided basket, cut old t-shirts into strips of yarn and braid them together. You can use three complementary colours and sew the ends of the yarn together. Once you have your braid, sew the bottom of the basket by winding the braid and securing each new edge to the previous one with a needle and thread. Then, sew the sides of the basket by pulling the braid up and pushing the needle through the edge of the basket bottom. Continue to loop the thread over the braid and push the needle through the lower layer, bringing it up and over the current braid. Finally, finish the basket by anchoring the top and bottom to the inside and outside of the basket, respectively.

Crochet Baskets

Crochet baskets are another popular option for t-shirt yarn projects. You can create a flat circle for the base of the basket by crocheting a spiral with no increases. Once you have reached your desired size, continue crocheting in a spiral without increases to form the sides of the basket. The sides will start to curl up on their own, creating the walls. You can make these baskets in different sizes by adjusting the number of rounds in the base and sides. For example, a small basket might have four rounds for the base and six rounds for the sides, while a large basket could have six rounds for the base and nine rounds for the sides.

T-shirt yarn is a great option for creating storage baskets and tubs that are both sturdy and soft. Whether you choose to braid or crochet your yarn, you can make a variety of functional and decorative baskets to organise your space.

Rugs

T-shirt yarn is a versatile material that can be used to create a variety of household items, including rugs. Here is a detailed guide on how to make a rug using t-shirt yarn:

Materials and Tools:

• Old T-shirts: Choose mostly cotton t-shirts with minimal printing. You will need about 6-7 x-large t-shirts to weave a 30" diameter rug.
• Hula hoop or cardboard: A hula hoop is preferable, but you can also make a cardboard loom by joining several pieces of cardboard together with glue and tape.
• Optional: A rotary cutter and a cutting mat can speed up the process of making t-shirt yarn.

Step 1: Choosing Fabric Colors

Select a variety of colors that complement each other. If you are unsure, start with a simple color scheme, such as alternating black and white rags. You can also dye white t-shirts to achieve your desired colors.

Step 2: Creating T-shirt Yarn

• Cut off the sleeves and open up the t-shirt.
• Cut the shirt below the arm line and below any prints.
• Fold the t-shirt from one side to the other, leaving a 1-inch allowance.
• Cut the t-shirt into 1.5-inch strips, avoiding the 1-inch allowance. Adjust the width of the strips depending on the thickness of the fabric.
• Open up the shirt and cut on a slant from the hem to connect all the strips together.
• Stretch the strips and allow the fabric to curl in on itself to form the yarn.
• Roll each color of t-shirt yarn into a ball for later use.

Step 3: Crocheting the Rug

• Ball up your yarn, being careful not to twist it, as this can create tension.
• Choose a crochet stitch, such as a single crochet, and a large crochet hook (size Q or larger).
• Start crocheting in the round, using a magic circle or the Chain 2 method.
• Gradually increase the number of stitches in each round to maintain a flat shape. If the work is curling, increase the number of stitches. If it is ruffling, decrease the stitches or do a round without increases.
• When you run out of a shirt, tie it to the next shirt with a small knot and continue crocheting.
• Continue until you reach your desired size or run out of yarn. Pull the end through the last loop and weave in the ends.

Finishing Touches:

• Tie a knot or stitch the ends to prevent unraveling.
• Cut the weft and tie a secure knot with every two pieces.
• Make tassels or pompoms by splitting the ends of the yarn and tying a knot in the center.
• Attach the tassels or pompoms by tying them through any part of the rug.

Care Instructions:

Hand wash or machine wash the rug gently and hang it to dry in a well-ventilated area.

Pet accessories

T-shirt yarn is a versatile material that can be used to create a variety of pet accessories. Here are some ideas for pet accessories that can be made with T-shirt yarn:

• Pet Bed: One of the most popular projects is to make a comfortable bed for your furry friend. You can adjust the size of the bed according to your pet's needs. A simple pattern involves creating a magic loop with six single crochet stitches in the middle and then increasing the number of stitches in each row to form a circle. Continue until the base of the bed is the desired size, and then build the sides by crocheting around for several rows. This project is a great way to upcycle old T-shirts and give your pet a cosy bed that smells like home.
• Dog Toy: T-shirt yarn can be used to crochet a durable dog toy that can serve as a chew toy or a distraction for your furry friend. You can find free patterns online to create a special handmade gift for your dog.
• Cat Bed Cave: Cats love their alone time, so why not crochet a cosy cave for them to curl up in? T-shirt yarn is ideal for this project due to its warmth and softness. You can find free patterns online to create a stylish and comfortable space for your cat.
• Pet Bowl Mat: T-shirt yarn can be used to crochet a mat for your pet's food and water bowls. This accessory will not only add a stylish touch to your pet's dining area but also help keep the floor clean and protect it from spills.
• Accessories: T-shirt yarn can be used to create stylish accessories for your pets, such as collars, leashes, and even bow ties. These accessories can be customised with different colours and patterns to match your pet's personality and your taste.
• Pet Carrier: If you like to take your small pet with you on the go, you can crochet a comfortable and stylish pet carrier using T-shirt yarn. This project may require a larger amount of yarn, depending on the size of your pet, but it will result in a unique and functional accessory.

Jewellery

T-shirt yarn is a versatile material that can be used to create unique and colourful jewellery. With some old t-shirts and basic supplies, you can make necklaces, headbands, rings, bracelets, and more. Here are some ideas and instructions to get you started:

Cutting the T-Shirt Yarn:

First, you will need to cut your t-shirt into a rectangle and then cut the fabric into strips. You can decide how wide you want your t-shirt yarn to be, depending on your project. Cut straight lines from one edge of the fabric to the other, leaving about 1-2 inches uncut at the top. This will create connected strips of fabric.

Connecting the Strips:

Place the shirt over your arm, with the uncut fold on top. Cut diagonally from the outside edge to the point where the first strip ends. Continue cutting the rest of the strips in the same manner. You will now have one long, continuous strip of t-shirt yarn.

Creating the Jewellery:

Author Lorine Mason suggests using five fundamental shapes to create an infinite number of decorative combinations for your jewellery. You can braid, twist, and roll the t-shirt yarn to form unique necklaces, bracelets, and rings. You can also dye the yarn to create colourful pieces.

Eco-Friendly Option:

If you're looking for an eco-friendly option, try using seamless t-shirt yarn. This method ensures that there are no ugly seams in your work, creating a neater finish. You can use old t-shirts, sheets, leggings, or any damaged fabric to create your own yarn and then knit or crochet it into jewellery.

With these tips and tricks, you can create fun, affordable, and eco-friendly jewellery with t-shirt yarn!

Slippers

T-shirt yarn is a versatile material that can be used to make a variety of items, including slippers. Here is a detailed guide on how to make your own pair of cosy slippers using T-shirt yarn:

Materials:

You will need T-shirt yarn, preferably 100% cotton, and a crochet hook. The crochet hook size can vary between 6.5-9mm, depending on the desired stitch and slipper size. For a knit-like crochet stitch, such as the garter stitch, a 7mm hook is recommended. You may also want to use faux fur yarn for added warmth and comfort.

Sole of the Slipper:

The sole of the slipper is the base on which you will build the rest of the structure. Using a crochet hook, create a chain of stitches, and then work in rounds to form the shape of the sole. The number of stitches and rounds will depend on your desired slipper size. It is recommended to make a double sole for added durability and to maintain the shape of the slipper.

Top Stripe of the Slipper:

After completing the sole, join the fur yarn or T-shirt yarn to one side of the sole and single crochet (sc) towards the toe. Chain one and turn your work. Repeat rows of single crochet, chaining one and turning at the end of each row, until you have reached the desired length to cover your foot. Join the corresponding stitch on the other side of the sole to complete the top stripe.

Assembly:

Join the two pieces of the slipper together, placing the wrong sides together. Sew or crochet the pieces together securely. Repeat the process for the second slipper.

Customisation:

You can customise your slippers by adding embroidery, appliques, or even pom-poms to the top stripe. You can also experiment with different colours and types of yarn to create unique designs.

T-shirt yarn slippers are a fun and practical project to make, and they can be a great way to upcycle old T-shirts. They are durable, washable, and perfect for keeping your feet warm and toasty!

Frequently asked questions