How to Make a Blanket Out of Shirts: A Creative Guide for Upcycling

With sustainability in mind, many of us are looking for ways to upcycle everyday items. Making a blanket out of old shirts combines eco-friendly practices with a touch of personal flair. This project is perfect for crafters of all levels and makes for a heartfelt gift or a treasure trove of personal memories styled into a comfy blanket.

How Many Shirts Do You Need to Make a Blanket?

The number of shirts required to make a blanket depends on several factors, including the size of the blanket you want to create and the size of the shirts you are using. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan your project:

Determining Blanket Size and Shirt Quantity

• Throw Size (about 50" x 60"): This is a common size for a personal throw blanket. You will typically need about 20-30 adult-sized t-shirts to complete this project. Each shirt should be able to produce at least one 12"x12" square.

• Twin Size (about 65" x 88"): Suitable for covering a single bed, this larger blanket might require 30-50 shirts, depending on how large the images are on your t-shirts.

• Full/Queen Size (about 90" x 100"): For a full or queen-size bed blanket, expect to use 50-70 shirts. This size is perfect for a bedspread or a large throw for the family to use in the living room.

• King Size (about 108" x 108"): The largest home-use blanket typically needs 70-100 shirts, making it a massive project that’s great for using a large collection of shirts.

Tips for Estimating

• Plan Your Layout: Arrange your cut squares on the floor to get an idea of how they can fit together and how many you’ll need to reach your desired dimensions.
• Mix and Match: If you don’t have enough shirts, consider mixing in solid squares of complementary fabric, or using shirts with smaller logos alongside plain fabric.

How to Make a Blanket Out of Shirts

Creating a blanket from shirts is a rewarding project that not only upcycles old clothing but also preserves memories in a unique and practical way. Here’s a detailed guide to help you transform your collection of shirts into a cozy blanket:

Materials Needed

• Old Shirts: Collect enough shirts to match the size of the blanket you want to make. The number can vary from 20 to 100 depending on the blanket’s dimensions.
• Interfacing: This will stabilize the fabric, preventing it from stretching and making it easier to sew. Fusible interfacing is recommended for its ease of application.
• Scissors or Rotary Cutter: For cleanly cutting the fabric.
• Ruler or Measuring Tape: To measure and ensure each piece is uniform.
• Sewing Machine: Necessary for stitching the pieces together.
• Thread: Choose a durable thread that matches or complements your fabric.
• Pins or Fabric Clips: To hold the fabric pieces in place while sewing.

Steps to Create the Blanket

1. Prepare the Shirts:

   • Wash and dry all shirts to ensure they are clean and pre-shrunk.
   • Cut the shirts to separate the front and back panels from the sleeves and collars.

2. Cut Fabric Squares:

   • Decide on the size of the squares each shirt panel can yield. A common size is 12"x12", but you can adjust based on the shirt sizes and designs.
   • Use a ruler or measuring tape and a rotary cutter for precise cuts.

3. Apply Interfacing:

   • Cut interfacing to the size of each fabric square.
   • Iron the interfacing onto the wrong side of each cut shirt piece, following the interfacing’s heat-setting instructions.

4. Arrange the Design:

   • Lay out the interfaced shirt squares on a large, flat surface.
   • Arrange the squares into your desired pattern, considering color balance and visual appeal.

5. Sew the Squares Together:

   • Sew the squares into rows, and then sew the rows together. Pin the squares right sides together and use a straight stitch with a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
   • Press the seams flat with an iron as you go for a neater finish.

6. Add Backing and Edge:

   • Choose a backing material, such as fleece or flannel, for added warmth and comfort. Cut the backing to match the size of your sewn squares.
   • Place the backing material right sides together with the sewn shirt squares. Sew around the edges, leaving a gap for turning.
   • Turn the blanket right side out through the gap, then hand-stitch or machine-sew the opening closed.

7. Finishing Touches:

   • Topstitch around the edge of the blanket for a polished look and additional durability.

Whether draped over your couch, spread on your Puffy Lux Mattress, or gifted to a loved one, a DIY shirt blanket is a cozy, sentimental masterpiece.

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How to Make a T-Shirt Blanket

Making a T-shirt blanket follows a similar process but focuses more on preserving the printed designs of the T-shirts, which are often the centerpiece of each square.

Additional Tips for T-Shirt Blankets

• Graphic Considerations: Ensure that the cut squares are centered around the T-shirt graphics. This might mean varying the square sizes based on the graphic’s dimensions.
• Layering: Consider adding a middle layer of batting between the T-shirt top and the backing for a quilt-like feel. This layer provides extra warmth and comfort.
• Quilting: For added durability and style, quilt through all three layers (top, batting, backing) around each square’s edges or across the blanket in a grid or other pattern.

How Often Should You Wash Your DIY T-Shirt Blanket?

• Regular Use: Wash every 1-2 months, or more frequently if used daily.
• Spot Cleaning: Address spills and spots as needed between full washes to maintain cleanliness.

Keeping your DIY shirt blanket clean and fresh is crucial, akin to maintaining the pristine condition of a Puffy Lux Mattress. Regular washing and care ensure that your handmade blanket remains as inviting and comfortable as the day you stitched it together

Creating a blanket from my family’s collection of vacation tees was not only a fun weekend project but also a meaningful way to remember those special times. Each segment of the blanket tells a story, much like the patches on a quilt, bringing comfort and nostalgia wrapped up in warmth.

Conclusion

Making a blanket out of old shirts is a rewarding project that breathes new life into unused garments. It’s an eco-friendly solution that personalizes your home decor and keeps your memories alive.

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