16 T-Shirt Refashion and Upcycle Tutorials
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Do something fun with all those extra t-shirts by using one of these fun t-shirt refashion and upcycle tutorials! Reuse something unwanted!
Either my husband or I have WAY too many t-shirts hanging around. T-shirts are always in abundance at the thrift store and easy hand-me-downs to come by, so I put together a round up of some awesome t-shirt refashion tutorials that you can do yourself!
There’s a tutorial for every problem you have: too large, too small, cover a stain, sew inexpensively, etc!
What is refashioning?
Refashioning is to fashion clothing again or differently. I usually use this to describe when I’m sewing clothing to fit different or to look different, but the majority of the item stays the same.
What is upcycling?
Upcycling is to reuse material to create something better than the original. I usually use this to describe when I’m sewing adult clothing into clothing for children or I’m sewing clothing into an accessory or house item.
Upcycling saves time, saves money, saves the environment, and saves memories.
Save time by reusing details from the original shirt. Save money by using something you already have.
Save the environment by keeping t-shirts out of the landfill. Save memories by reusing a favorite adult t-shirt for your toddler or child.
Do you love to refashion? Check out these lists of refashion ideas! There’s something for everyone!
- Dress refashion tutorials
- Button up shirt refashion tutorials
- Sweatshirt Hacks and Refashions
- Pants refashion and upcycle tutorials
- Sweater refashion and upcycle tutorials
- Coat refashion projects
T-Shirt Refashion and Upcycle Tutorials
T-Shirt Refashions and Upcycles for Women
Ruffle Tee Refashion Tutorial
If your t-shirt is boxy and unflattering you can cut the hem off and add shoulder ruffles. These ruffles bring in the shoulders and make a more flattering silhouette.
How to Add Fringe to a Top
This tee had a stain that was covered with a fun and chic fringe trim. You can put the fringe trim wherever you need it!
Upcycled DIY Sunglasses Case
Learn how to make a DIY sunglasses case by upcycling a sleeve or pair of leggings. Reuse the hem for fast sewing and a scrap of fleece for cushion.
How to add fabric to bottom of shirts
If your tee is too short or it shrunk in the wash, you can use this t-shirt refashion tutorial to give it another life.
Wrap T-Shirt Refashion
This wrap tee is stunning and easy to recreate! It would be great for any t-shirt that's just a little bit too big.
No Sew Cardigan Refashion
Did you get a stain on the front of your tee or did it shrink in the wash? Make this no-sew cardigan to keep wearing it!
T-Shirt Refashion with Lace
Did you get a stain on the front of your tee shirt? Cover it up with lace! This lace t-shirt is stunning!
Reverse applique t-shirt refashion
Hide those bleach spots or stains with this cute applique refashion! I love the floral print showing through.
T-Shirt Refashions and Upcycles for Kids
DIY T-Shirt Romper + FREE PATTERN
Use the free baby romper sewing pattern to make adorable rompers for your toddler. You can reuse some hems and the neckline to make it a fast sew!
Upcycled T-Shirt Romper and Dress Sewing Pattern
Upcycle an adult t-shirt into a romper or a dress with this sewing pattern in toddler and baby sizes. There are three views with lots of different options.
How to Make a Cape from a T-Shirt
Learn how to make a cape from a t-shirt for the easiest DIY cape! Add Velcro to the neck for an easy on and off option. It's great for pretend play or costumes!
How to Upcycle a T-Shirt into Leggings
Stretchy t-shirts make the best baby leggings because they are already soft. This one also comes with a free sewing pattern!
How to Upcycle a T-shirt into a Backpack
The easiest backpack to make just reuses a t-shirt! All the pieces are right there on the tee shirt and your child gets a fun new backpack!
3 Ways to Upcycle T-Shirts for Boys
I love these simple and unique updates that you can do to a little boy t-shirts!
2 Color Block Shirts, From T-fest: 2 Plain Shirts
Use 2 tee shirts to make two colorblocked tee shirts! You can making coordinating friend or sister t-shirts with this tutorial. There's also some great tips for sewing knit fabric!
Easy lounge pants: tutorial with pattern
Use up those t-shirts you want to donate by turning them into baby pants. This tutorial even comes with a free sewing pattern!
Which one would you like to try?
If you make something using this sewing project, I’d love to see! Please share it on social media with the hashtag #heatherhandmade and tag me!
I loved your re-fashioned coat story. I hoped to see it.
I made my own clothes when younger, now full-time fine art but still love sewing.
As a licensed therapist – on hiatus – I also loved the healing factor of making things.
Thank you!
Thanks for featuring my bow sleeve tee, love your site xoxoxo
Thank you so much for the feature! I am so glad you like my refashion. there are some wonderful ideas here. I paticulalry like the one with the bows on the shoulders 😀 xxx