Creative Ways to Recycle Your Old Tee

Most of us have accumulated many t-shirts through various events such as school-related activities, sports teams, churches and other organizations, concerts, races/marathons and any other time that causes us to walk home with a tee. A lot of the time these shirts bring memories, sentimental meaning or act as a badge of accomplishment. Certainly, you want to hang on to these for the long haul, and we don’t blame you!

Not only do certain shirts hold emotional value for the owner, but we know just how long it takes tees to reach the maximum comfort level. That cozy, super soft, “worn-in” feeling doesn’t happen over night. That comes from years of love, care and lots of time in the washer and dryer. We wouldn’t want to get rid of those either!

We certainly don’t encourage you to throw out your favorites, but we are creatures of habit. That means no matter if you have 30 or 300 old t-shirts, you are likely to reach forthe same couple over and over again. But, even though you might wear the same few shirts, if you’re anything like us, you are likely to have a drawer full of old t-shirts that are there for the simple purpose of taking up room. You know the drawer (or back corner of you closet.) The one that is filled with tees that you either never wear or ones that you havesimply outgrown.

Although it is a pain to go through your drawers and closet to figure out what you don’t need, it has to be done at some point. Whether you are moving, giving your closet a makeover or need something to do on a rainy day, you will likely reach a point where you want to get rid of those barely worn or ill-fitting tees.

Once you separate the “keep” pile from the “get rid of” pile, what do you do? Before you head to the dumpster with loaded arms, consider resurrecting your old shirts into useful items. And, yes, even your rattiest garments can lead a new life if you know what to do with it. Not only does this cut down on the landfill mass, (the clothing industry being one of the worst industry for wasting materials) but you might also find new ways to use those shirts that you’ve never thought of before. This could save you money, time and give you a craft to do on your off days.So, why not give it a try? It can’t hurt anything and the outcome might surprise you.

There are probably a million ways to reuse, recycle and re-wear those loyal tees. Luckily for you, we scoured the depths of the Internet to find 20 of the most creative and useful ways to breathe new life into those old t-shirts of yours.

Make a Quilt

If you have a whole slew of old sports teams tees, summer camp shirts from your childhood or shirts with quirky graphics and messages, you could always make a quilt. It makes a pretty cool and sentimental gift, and most people could use an extra blanket for drafty days around the house.

This is for the craftier person, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done. Depending on how big you want the quilt you can use anywhere from 30-40 shirts. With a sewing machine, iron, rulers and a fabric for the back of the quilt you will be well on your way. Since this is a big project, expect it to take some time. However, the outcome will be well worth it. Here are the full directions.

Wall Art

Perhaps you have an old concert tee that is near and dear to your heart but it just doesn’t fit anymore. If that is the case, you should consider mounting in on your wall. That way it isn’t sitting in your drawers until the end of time.

However, if you go this route, keep in mind that purchasing a jersey cases can be expensive and slightly overkill for just a tee. Instead, find an acrylic box frame (these are cheap and easy to find.) Place the shirt in the box frame and then place the cardboard box insert inside. Note that to make the tee fit; you can either cut the excess of the shirt or fold it inside the frame. Now you have a super cool wall art piece!

Tote Bag

Because you can never have too many totes and plastic shopping bags are a terrible waste, use that old tee to create a reusable, washable tote bag for groceries, pool, library books, the gym or anywhere else where you need a few extra hands. Step by step directions here.

Dog Toy

With just two stained t-shirts and a pair of scissors, you can give make Fido a new toy! Cut wide slits in the bottom of each shirt and then rip along the slit. Gather your t-shirt slits and tie together. Now all you have to do is braid down the length of the remaining fabric and tie off the other end. Viola!

Painter’s Smock

If you or someone in your family is a painter, an old tee is great to use for a painters smock. They will protect clothes from messy paint and you avoid buying something that could potentially be expensive. Cut the sleeves off your t-shirt and create pockets on the lower hem to hold brushes and supplies. This works great for those who like to refurbish or stain furniture and those young tots who spend their afternoon finger painting. Get the full, simple directions here.

Produce Bag

Perhaps you weren’t crazy about the tote bag. If that’s the case try your hand in a reusable “mesh” bag perfect for produce. To make the bag, turn the t-shirt of your choice inside out and draw a bag shape into the “body” of the shirt. You can make the bag as small or large as you like. Make sure to cut through the entire shirt, so you have two identical pieces.Next, stitch the two pieces together to create the bag. Once the bag is sewn together, use a ruler and a pen or marker to create dashes horizontally across the bag. Use scissors to snip across the lines and be sure to stagger your cuts. When you’re done with that, cut a longer sit two inches from the top to serve as you handle. Now all you have to do is stretch the bag and wash/dry it. After that the slits curl and give the bag a better appearance that is perfect for carrying produce, veggies and flower from the garden or farmers market!

Necklace/Scarf

In just four steps give you old tee a new life as a necklace-scarf hybrid. It’s super easy and you don’t even need a needle or thread. First, cut the hem off the shirt, then cut the shirt into several strips. Each strip creates a ring and depending on the desired size you can use as many or little as you like. Note that if you want a large necklace you might need to use two shirts.

Last, gather all the strips and tie together with the leftover fabric. If you want, add ribbons, beads, feathers or strips of other colors for a personal touch. Once you’re done personalizing, you have a fun new accessory that will add interest to any outfit!

Hula Hoop Rug

Do you have a spare hula-hoop lying around? You can easily use one and a slew of your colorful old tees to create an accent rug that is sure to brighten up any room. If you have a child heading to college, it might serve as a nice weekend craft to do together. Then, they can take the rug with them to put in their dorm room It’ll add a homely touch and provide an emotional sentiment. Learn how to do this super fun craft here.

Belt

Baby Tutu

Children clothes can be expensive and since they constantly grow, it’s smart idea to find ways to save from spending your entire income on toddler’s clothes. Plus, tutus not only look adorable but are super popular in the baby fashion world.When you set out to make your tiny tutu, remember the softer the fabric the better. You will also likely want to use pastel colors or combination of shades that complement each other or are in the same family. Check out the full step-by-step direction here.

Headband

For those looking to add new life to a hairstyle, consider making a headband by twisting pieces of you old t-shirt together. You have the option to use all one color or complementing color combinations. Plus, if you are in need of holiday or birthday gift but on a budget these work great! Get the full directions here.

Tee-kini

Ladies do you have a beachside vacation coming up but can’t seem to find the right bikini. Whether on a budget or looking for one-of-a-kind swimwear, an old t-shirt might do the trick. This is a great way to upcycle, plus the fabric is more comfortable than most store bought ones. Step by step instructions here.

Bracelets

Fabric from your old shirts is great to use when you need some new arm candy. Braid and twist strips together and make various bracelets of different colors and widths. For a simple bracelet, tear fabric and tie it around your wrist. There are virtually endless numbers of ways to make unique and fun bracelets. Plus, this is a perfect idea for sleepovers, birthday parties or any activities to do with a friend. Friendship bracelets anyone?!

Nautical Necklace

If necklaces are more your speed, don’t worry you can make those two. Since you need a clasp you will need a little more skill and time but they are still fun to do and make a cute finished product!
Go here for directions.

Shag Rug

In need of a bathroom rug or cozy accent rug your feet will love? You’ll need a big t-shirt, XL is preferable, and lots of small scraps. This is one of the more extensive projects, but it can be quite fun and yields a unique home piece. If you think you’re up for the challenge, read how to make your own here.

Pillow

Maybe you have a graphic tee that you love but for whatever reason, can’t wear anymore. Learn how to easily save your souvenir and turn the graphic into a nice pillow! Choose a pillow insert that will fit inside your tee. Then pin the fabric along the outline of the insert and remove the pillow. Then using either you hand or sewing machine, stich the t-shirt together, be sure to leave the bottom open!

Trim the access fabric and place the pillow inside the shirt. Fold the overhang at the bottom and finish sewing that together. You now have an awesome pillow to add to you bed, couch or chair!

T-shirt Yarn

If you know someone who knits, you can always gift him or her with t-shirt yarn. It’s super easy to make and if you aren’t the creative type, you can easily hand it off for someone to make something of you old tee. Get full instruction here.

Summer Sandals

Have a pair (or two) of flip-flops that aren’t cutting it this season? Wind fabric from an old tee around the toe straps to bring a pop of color to your plain Jane feet. If you are feeling extra crafty, add extra fabric to wind around your calf for a gladiator sandal look.

Tunic or Cover-Up

If you have an oversize t-shirt you can easily turn it into a cover-up for the beach or pool or into a tunic perfect for the dog days of summer. Cut off the sleeves and along the seam under the sleeves. You can cut as far down as you wish, keep in mind that this open the shirt and will show your sides. Next cut off the collar and you’re all set! This is so easy you’ll want to make more than just one!

Give to Charity

If all else fails, you can always pass those old shirts you never use to charity. Although this isn’t a craft, you are giving them a new life by providing them to those in need. This doesn’t involve throwing them out or wasting yet another garment in the dumpster. Then it becomes someone else’s new favorite tee. Look for a Goodwill, Salvation Army or clothing collection bin in your community. Also, many churches, schools and organizations have clothing drives periodically throughout the year that will distribute your old items to a charity for you.

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