2 of 3

Write now Article Tools

Now you can keep those favourite t-shirt designs long after you've worn out the shirts by putting them into a quilt.

First cut the design out using a square or rectangular shape depending on the picture on the shirt. Be sure to leave some of the t-shirt around the picture for a seam allowance. To keep the picture from getting stretched out of shape sew the design using a blanket stitch onto a piece of muslin or similar type material.

Once you have enough squares to form a quilt, decide on what material you want for the backing on the quilt. Before sewing anything together lay the squares out to determine the best way the squares can fit into the size of quilt you want to make (ie. Single, double, king, etc.). After you have laid out the pieces on the backing, there will be spaces in between; using a crazy patch design fill in these paces with any fabric that matches the colours in the t-shirt designs. Once you have arrived at the appropriate layout pin the squares into rows to prepare for sewing. Whether you work on sewing the squares by hand or by sewing machine is a personal choice. Sewing the squares together by hand is a perfect answer for people who carry sewing with them to work on while waiting.

Once each row is assembled begin sewing the rows together according to the original layout. If you aren't sure you will remember the order of each row then pin a piece of paper labeling each row before removing the rows for sewing.

After all of the rows are assembled into the front of the quilt, place it onto the material you have chosen as your backing. Make sure that the backing is laying face down and the quilt top is facing up. Unless you plan on trimming the quilt with a ribbon or some sort of border make sure there is enough material from the backing sticking out around the quilt so you can fold it over and sew it in place to eliminate edges.

When the quilt is complete you have a momento that will last for generation to come.

Learn more about this author, Frenchie Fulghum.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Making a quilt from old T-shirts?
We want to hear your view. Write now!