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Old t-shirts often end up in either the trash or the rag bin. But have you ever considered reusing them? There are lots of things you can do to spruce up a shirt you just don’t wear any more. And those that no longer fit or are worn out can be used to rework other items or create new stuff!
Here are some things you can do with an old t-shirt:
* Make stuffed animals for your kids. This is very easy to do. Just draw an outline on the shirt, and either cut through both sides of the fabric or cut through one, trace the outline, and cut out another identical piece. Sew the two pieces together, leaving a hole for stuffing. Stuff it, sew it up, and draw a face on it with a fine-tipped permanent marker.
* Turn it into a pillow. This is a fun and adorable way to preserve a baby’s old t-shirts. All you have to do is sew up the bottom and armholes, stuff it through the neck, then sew the neck closed.
* Give it a makeover. Shirts that still fit and are in good condition can be painted with fabric paint, or you can add iron-ons or other embellishments to spruce them up. Try removing the sleeves and sewing new ones on in a patterned fabric for a whole new look.
* Use the screen printing for other projects. Cut it out and add it to another shirt, or make a pillow or blanket with it. Smaller screen printed pieces can be used in scrapbooks and to embellish accessories.
* Use a few of your old t-shirts in complimentary colors to create a quilt. This makes a great gift for family members that live far away.
* Use the fabric to make a handbag. Shirts with interesting patterns are great for this. Just cut out two identical squares, rectangles, or other shapes, add lining, and sew them together. Make a handle out of the scraps, and you have a unique new bag!
* Cut several of them up and turn them into a braided rug. This will require three to ten shirts, depending on how big you make the rug. Try using tie-dyed shirts for an interesting look.
* Fold a logo t-shirt with the logo centered on front and frame it. This is a good thing to do with logo tees that have lots of sentimental value, but are either worn out or no longer fit.
* Use them to make fabric-covered boxes. These are great for gift giving, keeping craft supplies in, or using as jewelry boxes. All you have to do is cut the fabric, glue it on, and smooth it out. You can also add ribbon or other embellishments if you like, and coat it with Mod Podge to add a glossy finish.
Reusing old t-shirts can save you money, and it can help you create some great projects. So the next time run across an unused shirt, think about all of the crafting potential it has. Chances are, you can make something amazing out of it.
