Ways to Use Old T-Shirts

Most people have a few old t-shirts that they no longer want or need, but they don't have to be turned into rags. Old t-shirts have a number of creative and practical uses, and they're good for more than cleaning and polishing. Consider the following ways to use old t-shirts next time you clean out your dresser drawers. After learning these fun and creative uses, chances are you'll rethink your plans to get rid of your old t-shirts!

Car Seat Protectors

Vehicle seats take a lot of abuse, especially fabric seats, but you can keep them clean with the help of old t-shirts. This is one of the most practical uses for t-shirts that are past their prime. If you have fabric bucket seats in the family car or van, slip an old t-shirt over each backrest. The backs of the seats will be kept clean, and when these useful seat covers become dirty, all you have to do is toss them into the washing machine.

If you have a child that still uses a car seat, don't count on the seat beneath it staying clean. It's best to put something under the car seat to prevent dirty shoes, boots, and food or drinks from staining the seat. An old t-shirt is the perfect solution. Tuck an old t-shirt around the base of the seat, and when it becomes dirty it will be very easy to remove and wash.

Fun Pillows

Throw pillows are a fun and comfy addition to a kid's bed, and t-shirts make very inexpensive throw pillows. If you have an old t-shirt that's in good enough condition to turn into a pillow, you can stitch and stuff it to make a fun throw pillow. All you have to do is stitch all but one of the arms closed while the t-shirt is inside out. Next turn the t-shirt right side out. Stuff the t-shirt with pillow batting, and stitch up the arm. Decorate the throw pillow with fabric paint, colorful buttons, sequins, or any other decorations you want. Once you make one, you'll want to make many more!

Woven Placemats

Remember the days of making potholders on a loom? Potholders were fun to make, but the following uses for old t-shirts are some of the most practical and crafty uses you'll find. You can cut old t-shirts into narrows strips of equal size and weave it into a useful and decorative placemat.

While working on a flat surface, cut strips approximately one-inch wide, and lay out all of the vertical strips to make the first placemat. Since they will be tightly woven, it will take about three times as many strips laid out as the size of a typical placemat. Keep this in mind when laying out the strips. After weaving the first horizontal strip you'll have an idea of how much weaving shrinks the overall size.

Once all of the vertical strips are laid out, begin weaving at the bottom right corner. Weave the first strip horizontally, and tie the first knot. Weave the fabric over and under until reaching the other side, and tie another knot to hold the first strip in place. Continue this process while firmly moving the woven strips of fabric down to pull them taut. Before long your old t-shirt will begin to look nothing like it's former shape. You'll have a sturdy placement that's easy to wash, and it will keep the table clean and protected.

Quilts

If you like making quilts or know someone who does, a quilt made from t-shirt squares is one of the softest and most comfortable quilts you can make, and it's one of the best uses for old t-shirts. Comfortable t-shirts make comfortable quilts, and t-shirts from special vacation spots and t-shirts that mark special occasions are some of the very best. They bring back memories, and they provide comfort to those who are sick and those who just want to get warm on a chilly evening. Even if you've never made a quilt, give it a try. You'll be amazed at what you can do with a little creativity and the drive to make something useful.

Long-Sleeve T-Shirt Bags

I love purses, pocketbooks, and bags, and I must say, I have quite an impressive collection. If you also love bags, try making the following fun and practical shoulder bag using a long-sleeve t-shirt. This is one of my favorite uses. Your favorite long-sleeve t-shirt will soon become your favorite bag!

Begin by turning a long sleeve t-shirt inside out. Examine the length of the shirt, and imagine the bottom sewn shut. This is how deep the bag will be, so if the shirt is too long, trim the bottom to the appropriate length.

Next sew the bottom closed using several rows of stitching for extra strength. Turn the t-shirt right side out, and tie the arms together at the wrists to make a secure double knot. Your t-shirt should now look a lot like a finished bag, but it's not quite done.

The next step is to make a fastener for the opening. Either line both inner edges with Velcro for a complete closure, or attach a looped ribbon on one side, and a large matching button on the other. Your favorite old t-shirt is likely to become your most-used handbag!