How to Make a Custom Pirate Mickey Mouse Shirt for a Disney Vacation

You can purchase custom made pirate Mickey Mouse shirts for your children or yourself online, but these shirts can be expensive. However, you can easily make your own pirate Mickey shirt for just a few dollars even if you cannot sew. This method can be adapted for boys, girls, and adults by choosing different fabric and embellishment options.

In this article, I'll give you a no-sew option for the pirate Mickey Mouse shirt as well as a sewing option.

Supplies Needed:

Blank shirt (see "Where to Buy Blank Shirts" section below)

Scrap of fabric for Mickey Mouse head

Scrap of fabric for pirate scarf

Scraps of fusible web such as Heat n' Bond Lite (available from fabric stores)

Scissors

Iron

Paper

Pencil

Fine-tipped fabric paint in black (for no-sew method)

Sewing machine (for sewing method)

Thread (for sewing method)

Scraps of tear-away stabilizer( for sewing method)

How to Make a Pirate Mickey Mouse Shirt

1. You'll need to create 2 pattern pieces using the paper and pencil for this project. I drew my Mickey Mouse head and scarf pattern pieces free-hand. If you prefer, you can find some free online clipart to trace instead. Use my photo for this article as a reference.

2. Trace the 2 pattern pieces onto the fusible web following the manufacturer's instructions.

Note: The pattern pieces will be in reverse. This doesn't matter for the Mickey head as it looks the same whether it is reversed or not. However, if you want your pirate scarf pointing to the left on the finished shirt, make sure the pattern piece is drawn to the right on the fusible web.

3. Peel the paper backing off the fusible web.

4.Position the Mickey Mouse head on the t-shirt.

5. Fuse in place by using the iron following the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Position the pirate scarf over Mickey's head.

7. Fuse in place.

8. Allow to cool for a few minutes

No-Sew Finishing Method

1. Use the fine-tipped black fabric paint to draw around the exposed fabric edges on your design. This will seal the edges so that your pirate Mickey Mouse does not fray when you wash the shirt.

2. Set aside to dry overnight.

3. If you want, you can use the fabric paint to write the person's name under the pirate Mickey.

You can even use gold fabric paint to add a pirate ear ring to one of Mickey's ears.

Sewing Finishing Method

1. Use your sewing machine to satin stitch around all the exposed edges on your design. This stitching will seal the edges of your design so that it does not fray in the wash. I use a small piece of tear-away stabilizer on the inside of the shirt to help keep the satin stitching smooth and even.

2. Clip threads and remove any excess stabilizer.

3. Add the person's name to the shirt if desired using a fabric pen or embroidery machine.

Embellishment Options

Add hot-fix rhinestone crystals for a glittery effect.

Use different colored threads or fabric pens for more contrast.

Let your kids pick out their own fabric colors. You might get some really interesting combinations!

Where to Buy Blank Shirts

I look for blank shirts on sale whenever I'm shopping at places like Old Navy or Target. However, if you don't have time or don't have one of these stores near you, then I suggest ordering blanks from Jiffyshirts.com. They carry a large variety of blank shirt sizes and styles to outfit your entire party for a fabulous Disney vacation. Enjoy your new custom pirate Mickey Mouse shirts!