Comments for T-shirt takeover: 10 ways to reuse your old shirts

T-shirt takeover: 10 ways to reuse your old shirts

2009-09-28T14:00:00Z

I have countless cotton T-shirts at home. Some are in my dresser, others are in under-the-bed storage containers, and there are probably another dozen at my parents' house.

But, being the pack rat I am, I can't get rid of them for various sentimental reasons. The T-shirt we signed at the end of 5th grade; a gym uniform; marching band shirts corresponding to our show theme (don't laugh--marching band was awesome); race shirts; several variations on U. of I. shirts ... the list goes on.

So, instead of donating the ones you like, but never wear, here are 10 ways to repurpose your T-shirts:

1. T-shirt bag: This one is one of my favorites. Not only are you reusing something, you're getting something useful out of the deal too. It's pretty simple, and it could make a great gift or gift bag. Plus, you get to pick your pattern!

2. Pillows: I'd totally take one of these on a road trip or plane, though I'd opt for the square pillow rather than the T-shirt-shaped one. And instead of buying stuffing, you can use the leftover shirt scraps and even entire shirts.

3. Rags: This option is perfect if it's an ex's shirt or one that's too old to look good in bag or pillow form. No read directions for this one: Just tear or cut the shirt into pieces, or use it whole.

4. Pet toys: If you're dog is less destructive than mine, these toys might work for you.

5. Underwear: If you're a sewing whiz, here's a site with directions and a pattern for making your own undies from a shirt. Or, for less effort but more money, Solojones will do it for you.

6. Wall art/decor: Some T-shirts are so cute they could be artwork. So make it happen! Frame your art in a shadowbox, or use it as fabric on chairs or other furniture.

7. Quilts: Another option for you crafty ones. Quilts would make great gifts, and particularly soft shirts could end up as baby blankets

8. Scarf: It's starting to cool down again in Chicago, but one of these should help you stay warm.

9. Rag rug: Crocheting is a need-to-know for at least this tutorial on making a rug, but it might be worth learning for such an awesome, useful final product.

10. Napkins: Be super-duper eco-friendly by turning decent quality shirts into cloth napkins. Just cut into rectangles and sew!

Now that you've filled your house with T-shirt items, you might still have a few left. And you can't keep 'em all forever. So pick out a few and donate them so someone else can wear or reuse them!

And if you have any ideas for reusing those old shirts, bring 'em on!

Comment from Kyra Kyles on 2009-09-28

2009-09-28T20:57:48Z

My friends who wear their hair in natural styles tell me these T-shirts are great towels because they don't pull hair out, as terrycloth might.

Comment from Supriya Doshi on 2009-09-28

2009-09-28T20:59:04Z

Great suggestion! Thanks!

Comment from Papa MaC on 2009-09-30

2009-09-30T10:31:29Z

I typically use old T's as cleaning/polishing rags; but I did make a little cotton suit out of black and white t-shirts for my son when he was a baby. Being a growing boy it only fit for about 3 weeks, but I think it was well worth the work.

Comment from Maya Henderson on 2009-09-30

2009-09-30T18:49:55Z

I love this post! I am not crafty at ALL, but occasionally I can get a friend to cut old tees into cute workout tanks and halters for me! If I have a shirt that's cute but I'm not going to wear for some reason, I save it for a clothes swap party.

Comment from Supriya Doshi on 2009-09-30

2009-09-30T19:54:30Z

Oh what a great idea! I bet it was adorable. Thanks for the suggestion!

Comment from Supriya Doshi on 2009-09-30

2009-09-30T19:56:47Z

Oh, I'm not very crafty either, unfortunately :) That's awesome that you get a friend to help you make them into cute tanks though. Good idea on both counts. Maybe I can get a friend to cut a few up for me too! And a clothes swap party is a great idea too--I've never tried this but I may have to put something together. Thanks!