Transform Old T-Shirts: Creative Ways To Upcycle

If you have a big old T-shirt that you no longer want, there are many ways to repurpose it instead of throwing it away. You can cut it into strips and braid the strips together to make baskets, bowls, or rugs. You can also cut it into a specific shape and sew it into a tote bag, grocery bag, or produce bag. Another option is to cut it into a v-neck, turn it into a crop top, or cut off the sleeves. You can also use old T-shirts as cleaning rags or hair towels, or turn them into headbands, hair accessories, or pet blankets.

Create a headband

Headbands are a great way to upcycle old T-shirts, and they are super easy to make. T-shirt material is soft, stretchy, and easy to work with, making it perfect for headbands. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a headband from an old T-shirt:

Cut the T-shirt:

Lay the T-shirt flat and cut it horizontally into strips. The number of strips you cut will depend on the style of headband you want to create. For a simple headband, cut one strip from the body of the T-shirt, about twice the width you want the headband to be, and a comfortable length to fit around your head. For a braided headband, cut three strips, each about one to two inches wide. Stretch each strip gently to create rounded edges, which will make braiding easier.

Braid the strips (optional):

If you are making a braided headband, braid the three strips together tightly, just like braiding hair. Secure the end with a small piece of fabric or a hair tie.

Sew or glue the ends:

If you are making a simple headband, fold the strip end-to-end and sew or glue the ends together. If you are making a braided headband, wrap the braided strip around your head and stitch or glue the ends together.

Trim and adjust:

Trim any excess fabric from the ends of the headband. You may also need to adjust the length of the headband to ensure a comfortable fit.

Creative Options:

There are many ways to customise your headband:

• Use a T-shirt with a favourite logo or design.
• Paint a design on the headband.
• Use a tie-dye shirt for a colourful look.
• Use elastic instead of fabric for a tighter headband.

With these simple steps, you can create stylish and comfortable headbands from old T-shirts.

Make a tote bag

Making a tote bag from an old T-shirt is a great way to upcycle your old clothes and keep them out of landfills. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a no-sew T-shirt tote bag:

Materials:

• Old T-shirt – preferably one with a thicker fabric to make a sturdier bag
• Sharp scissors, preferably fabric scissors
• Washable marker (optional)

Step 1: Cut the Sleeves Off

For identical cuts, fold the T-shirt in half and cut both sleeves at once. If the material is too thick to cut both sleeves at once, cut one sleeve, then fold the shirt in half and use the cut side as a guide for the other sleeve.

Step 2: Cut the Neckline

You can turn the shirt inside out and trace the outline of a bowl before cutting. Alternatively, free-hand cut an oval shape for a slightly less rounded finish.

Step 3: Determine the Bag Depth

Turn the T-shirt inside out and determine where you want the bottom of the bag to be. Trace a line across to mark the bottom of the bag, keeping in mind that the tote is likely to stretch and become longer when filled with items.

Step 4: Cut Slits

Cut slits from the bottom of the shirt up to the line marking the bottom of the bag. Cut both the front and back layers together to ensure they match up for the next step. Cut the slits about 3/4 to 1 inch apart.

Step 5: Tie the Fringe

Take the first pair of fringe and tie them into a knot. Repeat this process for two more pairs of fringe. Then, take one strand from the middle set and tie it into a knot with one of the strands on the left set. Do the same on the right side, tying the remaining strand with one of the strands on the right set. Continue this process, tying the remaining strands together until all strands are tied.

Step 6: Finish Your Tote

Turn your T-shirt right side out again, and your no-sew tote bag is now ready to use! You can add some fun variations to your bag by tying the straps in knots or adding embellishments like bits of T-shirt scrap.

Create a rug

Creating a rug out of old T-shirts is a fun and creative way to upcycle your old clothes. It's an easy process that requires no sewing and is an excellent activity for a weekend. The number of T-shirts you'll need depends on the size of the rug you want to make. For a small bedside rug, you'll need around 5 to 10 T-shirts, while a larger rug will require more.

Here's a step-by-step guide to making a braided T-shirt rug:

• Choose your T-shirts: Select T-shirts in coordinating colours or a variety of colours for an eclectic look. You can use old T-shirts with special memories or purchase new ones in your desired colours.
• Cut the T-shirts into strips: Cut the T-shirts into strips approximately 1.5 inches wide. You can use scissors or a rotary cutter for a quicker process. Cut the ends of each piece so that you have strands instead of loops of fabric.
• Braid the strips: Gather three strips of fabric, stack them together, and tie a knot at the top to start braiding. Use the basic three-strand braiding technique to create a braid about 4 inches long.
• Coil the braid: Once you have a braided section, coil it into a circle with the knot in the centre.
• Attach the braid to the coil: Take the strand closest to the centre and pass it under and through one of the loops in the braid. This will attach the braid to the coil.
• Continue braiding and attaching: Braid a few more inches and then attach it to the centre coil again by passing the strand closest to the centre under and through the existing braid. Repeat this process continuously to create the entire rug.
• Join new strips without knots: When you reach the end of a strip, you can attach a new one without making knots. Cut a small slit at the end of the attached strand and the new strand. Line up the slits and pull the other end of the new strand through the slits from the back to the front. Pull both strands tightly to link them together.
• Flatten the rug: As you braid and attach, the rug may tend to bunch up. To flatten it, spritz it with water and use your hands to reshape it. You can also place heavy objects on it to hold it down.
• Finish the backing: To finish the back of your rug and keep it in place, you can use fusible interfacing, starch, or Polycrylic spray.

Now you have a unique and colourful braided T-shirt rug to decorate your home!

Frame it

Framing a T-shirt is a great way to preserve it as a memento or display it as a piece of art. Here are some steps you can follow to frame a T-shirt:

Choose a Frame

Select a frame that complements the size and design of the T-shirt. You can opt for a shadow box frame specifically designed for T-shirts, a clear acrylic frame, or a simple metal frame. Consider the portion of the T-shirt you want to display and choose a frame size accordingly. If you want to showcase both the front and back designs, you may need a larger frame or opt for two separate frames.

Prepare the T-shirt

Before placing the T-shirt in the frame, ensure it is clean and free of any wrinkles or creases. You may need to iron the T-shirt for a smoother appearance. If you plan to frame only a specific design element, you can cut the T-shirt to fit the frame, ensuring you leave enough fabric to secure it in place.

Assemble the Frame

Disassemble the frame by removing the back or bottom rail, following the frame's specific instructions. Place the T-shirt face down and position the frame over it, centering it on the desired design or graphic. If needed, cut a piece of cardboard slightly smaller than the frame and place it over the T-shirt for added stability. Carefully fold or roll the edges of the T-shirt towards the back of the frame, ensuring it is smooth and taut.

Secure the T-shirt

Use double-sided tape or glue to secure the T-shirt in place. Apply the adhesive to the mounting surface, such as cardboard or foam core, and carefully lay the T-shirt onto it, smoothing out any wrinkles. Trim any excess fabric as needed, being cautious not to cut the mounting surface.

Reassemble the Frame

Once the T-shirt is securely mounted, carefully reassemble the frame. Reattach the back or bottom rail, ensuring a tight fit. If your frame has swivel levers or similar mechanisms, adjust them to secure the back in place.

Hang Your Framed T-shirt

Finally, attach picture hangers or wire to the back of the frame, following standard picture-hanging procedures. Consider the placement of the framed T-shirt, ensuring it is centred and level. Step back and admire your handiwork!

Make a dog toy

If you have a big old T-shirt that you no longer want, you can turn it into a dog toy. Here's how:

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need a good pair of scissors and one or more T-shirts, depending on how many colours or patterns you want. It is best to use 100% cotton T-shirts because they stretch well. Make sure that you use the same fabric for the toy so that the stretch is the same throughout the toy and it will behave consistently when washed.

Next, prep your materials. Remove any seams from the T-shirt material so that the fabric can stretch properly. Cut the fabric into strips at least 2 to 3 inches wide. Don't worry if the edges are ragged. Grab the ends of each strip one at a time and stretch the fabric. You can also hold one end and slowly slide your hand up the length of the strip to stretch the fabric. The strip will curl up from the sides as it stretches.

Now, make the toy. A tight braid is the most important factor in making a tug toy that will last. If you have someone to help you, they can hold one end while you weave the braid. If you don't have a helper, you will need to get creative. Clamp the fabric to a workbench or table, hang the fabric over a spike driven into a support post, or grab hold of the fabric with your toes.

For a loop tug, braid the entire length of the fabric. Once you have the weave done, decide where and how big you want the loop. Undo the braid from the ends until you get to the bottom of the loop. Then, pair up the cloth strips and make one solid braid down to the end. Once you get to the bottom, knot off the strips of fabric to make an area the dog can get a good grip on.

For a long double tug, knot six strips of fabric together at one end. Double up the fabric strips and make one braid. At the other end, knot the strips of fabric again and trim off any excess material.

Your dog will love playing with their new toy!

Frequently asked questions