Reuse Your Old Graduation Gowns

I pondered the task of creating something fun from a leftover graduation gown and came up with a few ideas-some being truly hilarious and others may be a good functional purpose. Read on to find out some of the ways I came up with. Who knows-maybe somebody out there can actually use one of these!

One way that came to mind to re-use the gown, is to make it into a laundry bag. All that is needed for this type of project is the gown and good knot tying ability. First, tie the bottom end in a good, secure knot to close off the opening. Then, tie the arms together to form a handle and-wow, instant laundry bag!

Another interesting thing to do with it is to use it or allow someone to borrow it to use as a Halloween costume, whether to actually dress as a graduate or to use as a dress, the possibilities are endless! This use is only limited by the person's imagination!

The gown could also be donated as a gift to a homeless person who has nothing to wear. This only requires finding a homeless shelter and dropping it off. This could possibly bring a smile to a homeless person's face, because at least somebody might be able to use it to sleep in.

I also thought it might make a great craft project-something like pillow cases or curtains could be made from it to help spice up a room. All that is required is to go to the local craft store and find a pattern and craft materials or make your own pattern from cardboard the size of your old curtains or pillow. Also needed is a sewing machine, as hand sewing can be too loose and the project could fall apart. This also can be decorated

as desired with fancy stitching, ribbons or perhaps beads for the curtains.

It might be fun to use it as a security device/practical joke. Stuff the gown and a pair of pants with any sort of stuffing, old scraps of material, newspaper, rags, or whatever will fill them out. Next, stuff the legs of the pants into some boots or high tops. Find also some old gloves and stuff them as well before attaching them to the arms of the gown. Then find something to stuff for the head like pantyhose or use a head form for a wig. Now attach a hair piece or a wig obtainable from a retail, beauty supply store, or second hand store near you. A hat can be placed over the hair piece if desired. To make the face piece more realistic, get some Mr. Potato Head parts or some crafting supplies from a craft store. When the creation is done, place it sitting in a chair looking toward a TV set away from a window or put it out in your car overnight. Instant prank or to keep property safe, the decision is yours.

I am glad I could share my ideas for re-using a graduation gown. I hope they are enjoyed by one and all, and it is my hope that they are found useful-at least for a laugh, if nothing else. Whatever method is chosen, have fun doing it!