what to do with old t shirts that are too small

10 Creative Uses for Old T-Shirts Too Small

By Rachel Jackson
AD

Outgrown your favorite t-shirts? Don't let them gather dust in the corner of your closet. There are numerous creative and eco-friendly ways to repurpose old t-shirts that are too small. Let's explore some fantastic ideas to give your old tees a new life.

Before we dive into the creative projects, remember to sort your old t-shirts. Separate them based on their condition, size, and fabric type. This will help you choose the right t-shirts for each project and make the process more manageable.

Upcycling Old T-Shirts into New Garments

One of the best ways to repurpose old t-shirts is to turn them into new garments. This not only gives your old tees a new purpose but also helps you create unique, personalized pieces.

AD
12 Upcycled T Shirt DIY Ideas – Easy and Fun
12 Upcycled T Shirt DIY Ideas – Easy and Fun
the collage shows different things to do with old t - shirts and other items
the collage shows different things to do with old t - shirts and other items
Transform Your Old T-Shirts Into Fabulous DIY Projects!
Transform Your Old T-Shirts Into Fabulous DIY Projects!

Here are two popular upcycling ideas to get you started:

T-Shirt to Tank Top

Transform your old t-shirts into stylish tank tops by cutting off the sleeves and neckline. This simple hack can instantly update your old tees and create a fresh, summery look.

TT: @seasonofseparation
TT: @seasonofseparation
Four Ways to Make a Too-Small T-Shirt Bigger
Four Ways to Make a Too-Small T-Shirt Bigger
Cute little upcycle idea
Cute little upcycle idea

For a more fitted tank top, you can also cut off the sides of the t-shirt, just below the armpits, and hem the edges. This will give you a sleek, form-fitting tank top that you can wear with jeans, skirts, or shorts.

T-Shirt to Skirt

Another popular upcycling idea is to turn your old t-shirts into skirts. This is an excellent way to repurpose larger, oversized t-shirts that you no longer wear.

AD

To create a simple t-shirt skirt, cut the t-shirt just below the armpits and then cut off the sleeves. Next, hem the bottom edge of the t-shirt to create a clean, finished look. For a fuller skirt, gather the fabric at the waist and tie it with a belt or a piece of fabric. You can also add a waistband for a more polished look.

No Sew Tank Hack!
No Sew Tank Hack!
TikTok · Stitched with ling
TikTok · Stitched with ling
Upcycle an Old T-Shirt into Something Fresh | Easy DIY Rework Tutorial
Upcycle an Old T-Shirt into Something Fresh | Easy DIY Rework Tutorial
convert a t-shirt into one-of-a-kind-top
convert a t-shirt into one-of-a-kind-top
ASMR upcycling my old tshirt into the cutest scrunch top♻️ #upcycledfashion #upcycling #thriftflip
ASMR upcycling my old tshirt into the cutest scrunch top♻️ #upcycledfashion #upcycling #thriftflip
25 Crafts Made From Repurposed T-Shirts
25 Crafts Made From Repurposed T-Shirts

Home Decor and Accessories

Old t-shirts can also be transformed into beautiful home decor items and accessories. These projects not only add a personal touch to your space but also help reduce textile waste.

Here are two creative ideas for home decor and accessories:

AD

T-Shirt Rug

Create a unique, colorful rug using your old t-shirts. This project is perfect for repurposing t-shirts with fun prints or patterns.

there are many posters on the wall in this office building, including rep the king
there are many posters on the wall in this office building, including rep the king
Turn an Old T-Shirt Into Shorts in Minutes ✂️🔥 #upcycling #sewing
Turn an Old T-Shirt Into Shorts in Minutes ✂️🔥 #upcycling #sewing
30+ T-Shirt Refashion Projects
30+ T-Shirt Refashion Projects
30 DIY T Shirt Cutting Ideas No Sew Ideas
30 DIY T Shirt Cutting Ideas No Sew Ideas
a woman holding up a t - shirt that says bored with your t - shirt sleeves?
a woman holding up a t - shirt that says bored with your t - shirt sleeves?
Easy No Sew DIY T-Shirt Rug: Upcycle Your Old Clothes
Easy No Sew DIY T-Shirt Rug: Upcycle Your Old Clothes
the cover of 34 things to make from old shirts
the cover of 34 things to make from old shirts
37 DIY T-Shirt Ideas for Your Next Wardrobe Upgrade
37 DIY T-Shirt Ideas for Your Next Wardrobe Upgrade
16 Amazing Ways to Upcycle Old T-Shirts
16 Amazing Ways to Upcycle Old T-Shirts
women's clothes with text overlay that reads, 68 fun and flirty ways to refash your t - shirts
women's clothes with text overlay that reads, 68 fun and flirty ways to refash your t - shirts
many different types of t - shirts are arranged together in this collage with the words remarkable and fun ways to repurpose old t - shirts
many different types of t - shirts are arranged together in this collage with the words remarkable and fun ways to repurpose old t - shirts
a woman in pink shirt holding onto her arm with words on it that read run sleeve alteration
a woman in pink shirt holding onto her arm with words on it that read run sleeve alteration
The easy way how to upcycle clothes that are too small - Swoodson Says
The easy way how to upcycle clothes that are too small - Swoodson Says
Upcycled T Shirts - Ideas and Tips
Upcycled T Shirts - Ideas and Tips

To make a t-shirt rug, cut your old t-shirts into strips, then tie them together in knots to create a braided rug. You can also weave the strips together to create a more intricate pattern. Once you've reached your desired size, secure the ends and trim any loose threads.

T-Shirt Pillow Cases

Transform your old t-shirts into stylish pillow cases. This is an excellent way to add a pop of color or a fun pattern to your living room or bedroom.

AD

To make t-shirt pillow cases, cut the t-shirt into a rectangle, leaving enough fabric to cover the pillow and create a seam. Hem the edges, then sew the sides together, leaving one end open for the pillow. Once you've inserted the pillow, you can either leave the opening as is or add a simple closure, like a button or a tie.

As you explore these creative ideas, remember that the possibilities are endless. Don't be afraid to experiment and let your imagination guide you. By repurposing your old t-shirts, you're not only giving them a new life but also contributing to a more sustainable, eco-friendly world. So, grab your old tees and start crafting – your home and the planet will thank you!

AD