50 Ways to Repurpose an Old T-Shirt

Kate Puhala
Feb 16, 2014

Whether you’re getting a jump start on spring cleaning or just casually sorting through your stash of clothes, tackling your t-shirt pile should make your inner DIY-er smile from ear to ear. You wouldn’t believe the number of ways you can repurpose a basic jersey tee—everything from braided accessories to full-blown woven rugs is possible once you snip the wardrobe staple down to size, or even into an easy-to-weave continuous thread. These 50 ways to reuse an old t-shirt should definitely spark some inspiration—and make you think twice before you label it a hand me down!

1. Fringe Scarf: Cut under the sleeves and fringe the hemline to get this super simple no-sew circle scarf. Go the extra mile and knot the fringe so that it looks totally pro. (via Plan B Anna Evers)

2. Braided Wooden Bead Wrap Bracelet: The addition of large wooden beads to this t-shirt wrap bracelet elevates it to boutique-worthy levels. Obsessed. (via Henry Happened)

3. Brass Ring Statement Necklace: Make a statement with gold rings woven in between a cool palette of grey, blue, and black t-shirt thread. (via Brit + Co.)

4. Nautical Necklaces: Braided nautical necklaces? Sign us up! Electrical tape adds a cool pop of color to these preppy accessories. (via Brit + Co.)

5. Turban Headband: Want to try the turban trend on for size? Make one out of a tee—just twist and loop a seven-inch band of jersey to get this cool girl look. (via 11th Thread)

6. Chunky Knotted Neckpiece: We’re way intrigued by this knotted neckpiece that’s half scarf-half choker necklace. Embrace the dual tassels for a dramatic look, or keep it high and tight to make a bib-style design that might be less intimidating to wear. (via The Red Thread)

7. Patterned Wrap Bracelet: Proving that greatness happens when you braid patterned tees into a wrap bracelet. (via Henry Happened)

8. Burlap T-Shirt Lined Bag: Who knew a burlap bag could turn into such a covetable carryall? We like how the t-shirt trim breathes some life into this rustic bag—use fabric paint to add geo shapes and other patterns to the base for extra oomph. (via Steph Chows)

9. Slasher Scarf: Got a hole in your fave tee? Don’t toss it into the rag pile—slash it into a cool statement accessory. (via A Beautiful Mess)

10. Flower Ring: Make your very own rosette cocktail ring! Or add the folded fabric flower to plain accessories like a pair of leather gloves. (via Homemade Ginger)

11. Copper Tube Jewelry: We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: a hardware store is a girl’s best friend. Just look at how chic these t-shirt scraps look adorned with metallic tubes. (via Brit + Co.)

12. No-Sew Tote Bag: Have you ever thought, man, that old graphic tee would make a killer tote bag? We’re here to tell you that dreams do come true. Add this no-sew project to your weekend “to make” list! (via Oh So Pretty)

13. Knotted Headband: Turn your scrap jersey into a versatile headband that’s perfect for adding some flair to your workout hairdo. (via Sugar Bee Crafts)

14. Fringe Skirt: Whoa, a fringe skirt made out of t-shirt scraps? So fun! (via I Love to Create)

15. No-Sew Polka Dot Infinity Scarf: Just let us know when you’re done ogling this gorgeous gold dot circle scarf. No rush. (via Sugar & Cloth)

16. Necklace Pendants: Super cute idea: use t-shirt fabric to make whimsical necklace pendants. We love the extra special touch the contrast stitching brings to the party. (via Pellon Projects)

17. Braided Belt: We promise, you’ll get tons of use out of this t-shirt braided belt. When we make ours for spring, we’ll amp up the vibrancy of the fabric for sure (color block belt anyone?) (via Delia Creates)

18. Fabric Covered Beads: Here’s a genius way to breathe new life into your beaded costume jewelry. The t-shirt fabric is perfectly cinched around every bead with embroidery thread. (via Every Nothing Wonderful)

19. Braided Chain Necklace: Instead of braiding a statement necklace with three scraps of t-shirt fabric, add a strand of chain into the mix—the results will wow you. (via Brit + Co.)

20. Ringlet Scarf: We’d totally cozy up to this color block scarf in any season. Let it hang loose when the sun is out or wrap it ‘round and ‘round to stay out of the chill zone. (via Kevin & Amanda)

21. Multi-Color Pouch: We’re pretty floored by this beautiful t-shirt embroidered pouch—how intricate is this design? Click through to download a template with step-by-step instructions, lucky you! (via The Re Fab Diaries)

22. Color Block Circle Scarf: By now it should be obvious that we’re obsessed with all things color blocked, so of course we’d go and DIY a 15-panel, tri-colored circle scarf! Technically this one was made with a sweater, but you can totally rock the same method with a t-shirt. We kept the tones pretty muted this time around, but feel free to bug out and go bold. (via Brit + Co.)

23. Chevron Necklace: The secret’s out: the awesome chevron pattern on this braided tee necklace is made with painted dried pasta. For reals! Mind = blown! (via Sugar & Dinosaurs)

24. Braided Flip Flops: Dress up those dollar store flip flops with a trendy (and comfy!) braided t-shirt strap. (via Make It & Love It)

25. Woven Knot Necklaces: Nautical necklaces, take two! We can imagine rocking these collar-style necklaces in some far away cabana. (via Refinery29)

26. iPod Holder: Five stitches and three strips of VELCRO® Brand tape is all it takes to turn a t-shirt into a durable carry case for your iPod. (via Oh So Pretty)

27. Houndstooth Roll Clutch: Banish cord clutter with this roll clutch travel pouch in this totally swoon-worthy houndstooth pattern. (via 2nd Funniest Thing)

28. Fabric Garland Chandelier: Dangling fabric sure looks dreamy on this square lantern—what a cool way to rescue white tees! (via A Beautiful Mess)

29. Valentine Trivet: Knit your old neon tee into a heart? Why knot? (We had to). (via Lebenslustiger)

30. Rag Rug: Dig your toes into the coziness that is this “rag” rug. This might be the snuggliest your feet will ever be. (via Sew Pretty Sew Free)

31. Neon Coil Bowls: Hold the phone: these eye-catching neon bowls were made from a t-shirt? We’re in love! They’d make the coolest desk accessories, don’t you think? (via The Red Thread)

32. Cushion Cover: Crochet a pillow cover to striped perfection. We’d definitely make enough to trick out an entire couch. (via Callaloo Soup)

33. Pom Pom Gift Toppers: Add an extra special touch to party favors and presents with a pom pom made from t-shirt scraps. Trust us, people will be into the gift topper as much as the actual gift! (via Brit + Co.)

34. Wall Hangings: We’re going ga-ga over these gorgeous wall hangings that would add crafty character to any modern home. Add extra charm with a string of metallic beads. (via Lebenslustiger)

35. Spiral Rug: Whoa! This ombre spiral rug is all that. Plus, this is one piece of DIY decor your toes would totally thank you for making. (via One Dog Woof)

36. Neon Tassels: What room in your house couldn’t benefit from neon t-shirt tassels? That’s what we thought: every room could! (via My Poppet)

37. Knotted Lampshade: Add some warmth to your bedside by dimming the glow of your table lamp with this knotted lampshade. It might be the key to constant sweet dreams ;) (via Yellow Girl)

38. Braided Basket: If you’re really starting from scratch with your wardrobe, then this mega-basket is definitely the t-shirt project for you. We’re wow-ed by its fabulously random color palette. (via Apartment Therapy)

39. Spiral Coasters: Okay, so the above basket tutorial might be a reach for beginners. So start with these spiral coasters! Tackle this small-scale project before your next dinner party. (via Nellie Bellie)

40. Pet Cave: Hold the phone: a pet cave made from t-shirt scraps? Genius! There’s no tutorial to accompany this cozy pet pod, but you can buy the pattern direct from this Etsy seller for just $6. (via ErinBlacksDesign on Etsy)

41. Produce Bag: While it may not be the most practical option for toting around your everyday odds and ends, this t-shirt bag is our go-to for carrying our produce home from the farmer’s market, or even great for lugging around your gym shoes. (via Apartment Therapy)

42. Pattern Rug: Even though its the last t-shirt rug in our roundup, it’s quite a stunner. Who doesn’t need a pretty striped rug brightening up their pad? (via Grow Creative)

43. Alphabet Bean Bags: What a playful way to learn your ABC’s! Though, these would also make an awesome DIY cornhole set… (via Dollar Store Crafts)

44. Pocket Pencil Case: Put that old pocket tee to good use! (via Creme de la Craft)

45. Lamb Toys: We can’t think of more adorable baby shower gifts. They’ll add a soft touch to any nursery. (via Lebenslustiger)

46. Knotted Baby Hat: You wouldn’t believe how easy it is to turn a t-shirt into an aww-inducing baby hat. The knotted top and iron on-decals are too cute. (Alice & Lois)

47. Fingerless Gloves: If the dress up box is looking a little low, then try your hand at turning a tee into these cozy fingerless gloves. Kid tested, magic fairy approved :) (via La Malediction)

48. Woven Easter Basket: Have your kids help craft their own Easter basket from t-shirt scraps! Any DIY that can bring the fam together is fine by us! (via The Experimental Home)

49. Mini Cushions: Here’s another project that the whole gang can do together: make these painted mini cushions. Stick with solid colors for true beginers, while advanced crafters can amp up their mini-pillows with these small geo shapes. (via Hej Juni)

50. Tassel Dog Toy: Of course, we had to show some love to man’s best friend! Learn how to make your pooch a chew toy on the cheap. The #dogsofbritandco give it two paws up ;) (via DIYour Face Off)

What cool ways have you repurposed a t-shirt? Which ones from this roundup are you planning on making? Tell us about your DIY projects in the comments below.

14 Unbelievable, Edible Ways to Upcycle Food Scraps

Before you toss those food scraps on the compost pile (or in the trash bin), take a peek at all of the clever ways that they can be repurposed. From peels to cores, poultry to produce and everything in between, these 14 awesome upcycled food recipes help you make the most out of your groceries and make your meals feelbrand new. It's a smart move that's just as good for the Earth as it is for your wallet. Oh yeah, and they taste great too!

Upcycled Food Recipes To Make In 2024

Bacon Fat: The crisp slices may be the real star, but the bacon fat is nothing to just discard. (Plus, tossing it down the drain or in the trash can't be good for your home's plumbing or the environment, right?). It adds a subtle smokiness to this yummy bacon jam, but you can also use it as a popcorn topping!. (via Brit + Co)

Citrus Peels: Turn your favorite peels into marmalade with this easy recipe. Spread it on toast for breakfast or use it in a dessert — it's just that versatile. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Seeds: We can hardly keep track of all the ways pumpkin seeds and guts can be repurposed. Stirring them into puppy chow is a great option for those who enjoy theirs a little sweeter. (via Brit + Co)

Apple Peels: You'll love sipping on homemade apple peel bourbonas a spicy, warming alternative to the usual flavored vodka and “fiery" store-bought selections. The sweet, autumnal notes mean it's just as good enjoyed neat or in a hot toddy. (via Food52)

Leftover Bones: Whip up a batch of brodo or this delicious creamy chicken, mushroom and green chile soup the next time you roast a chicken and pick it clean. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)

Chard Stems: Yeah, we can pickle chard stems for a sour afternoon pick-me-up. Not feeling something so puckery? Toss them on the grill instead. (via Bon Appétit)

Broccoli Stalks: Use the florets in your next stir fry, then transform the stalks into tasty baked fries like these broccoli stem fries. Dip 'em in chimichurri tahini for the ultimate snack. (via What's Cooking Good Looking)

Carrot Tops: If you buy fresh carrots with their tops, don't let them lop them off at the register. Instead, transform the fronds into a lovely pesto for roasted carrot soup. (via Cravings in Amsterdam)

Potato Peels: Crispy potato skins get an apeeling makeover when roasted, especially when sprinkled with cheese and scallions. (via The Kitchn)

Fennel Fronds: A pinch of fennel frond salt adds a subtle anise flavor anywhere it's sprinkled. (via Chew Town)

Apple Cores: Simmer apple cores and peels with a little sugar in a big pot of water to make an easy, no-waste apple juice. (via Inspiration Kitchen)

Papaya Seeds: You'll enjoy the interesting peppery taste papaya seeds lend this sweet and spicy watermelon blueberry salsa. Consider this the ultimate addition to the Memorial Day picnic. (via The Healthy Foodie)

Kale Stems: Kale stems are pretty tough to chew, but blending them in your next post-workout smoothie takes care of that issue, no sweat. Plus, when whirled with strawberries and banana, you'll hardly even know they're there. (via The Roasted Root)

Almond Pulp: If you make your own homemadealmond milk, it probably pains you a bit to just toss all the pulp you get after straining. Happily, it can be used to make grain-free cinnamon and peanut butter almond pulp crackers/cereal and more. (via The Edible Perspective)

What are some of your favorite hacks for turning trash into treasure, edible or not? Share your earth-friendly ideas (about upcycled food and more) with us on Twitter and follow us on Pinterest for more food inspo!

This post has been updated.

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Move Over "Gossip Girl" — "Friday Night Lights" Season 1 Is Peak TV

There are a number of TV shows in the running for best teen drama. I'm ready to press play on The Summer I Turned Pretty, One Tree Hill, and The Vampire Diaries at any given moment, but there is nothing like watching Friday Night Lights season 1. It might not be as glamorous as Gossip Girl, but that's exactly why it resonates so deeply when you watch it — FNL both highlights and honors viewers' real-world experiences because the characters are SO relatable. Instead of leaving you envious of a fictional life, Friday Night Lights welcomes you into a community you feel like you already know.


Image via NBC

Everyone in the fictional town of Dillon, Texas lives and breathes football, and Friday Night Lights season 1 opens just before the first game of the season. Right off the bat, we're introduced to characters that both evoke emotion and spark our curiosity, and we're told exactly where they are in their lives: new head coach Eric Taylor is struggling to win the town's confidence. Fullback Tim Riggins struggles both with motivation and against confident running back Smash Williams. All-American quarterback Jason Street has dreams of playing in the NFL while timid Matt Saracen takes care of his grandmother during the afternoon and serves as second-string quarterback at night.

Not to mention the fact that when I watched Friday Night Lights for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised by how compelling and multi-dimensional the women are. Tami Taylor has the perfect blend of motherly love and the kind of Southern sass that puts you in your place. Minka Kelly's Lyla Garrity is one of my favorite TV characters of all time because she might be wealthy and popular, but she evades "The Curse of the Brunette" that seems to plague early 2000s leading ladies. Instead of turning into a manipulative mean girl like the high school versions of Blair Waldorf and Brooke Davis, Lyla is just kind. Does she still make insanely bad decisions (like kissing her boyfriend's best friend)? Yes, but aren't bad decisions a right of passage when you're 17?

The show's initial plots and character arcs revolve heavily around football, but the sport really just serves as a funnel for all the off-field drama. The tension between the characters makes their gameplay even more passionate — and when Street gets seriously injured during that first game of the season, the town rallies together in a way that highlights how strong a community can bond in the face of tragedy.

Image via NBC

Life in middle-class America can be tough, but it can also be really, really sweet. While I'm neither from Texas nor have attended the kind of football school Dillon High is, the contrast between the characters' responsibilities and the fun that comes with parties and joining your friends at the local burger joint resonates with me every time I rewatch.

Even the fact the show is named Friday Night Lights emphasizes that contrast because it shows just how much of a spotlight is on these kids, and how much weight is on their shoulders when they're truly just trying to survive their teenage years.

Rather than providing an escape from viewers' realities like Outer Banks does, Friday Night Lights season 1 emphasizes the realities of juggling multiple jobs, school, and family responsibility that a lot of viewers experience too. It allows you to understand the characters in a really personal way — and feel like you're a part of the community too. The world can seem so big and scary (now more than ever), which is why the simplicity of Friday Night Lights totally redefines comfort TV.

What's your standout moment from Friday Night Lights season 1? Check out why Gilmore Girls Season 7 Wasn't Supposed To Be The Final Chapter for even more TV show musings!

Lead image via NBC

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15 Graduation Gifts Perfect For The Class Of 2024

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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Avoiding Your Next Haircut? Don’t Make The Same Mistakes As Me

I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!

Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.

My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!

1. Just Get The Dang Haircut

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.

According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.

2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.

3. Switch Up Your Shampoos

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.

If you need some more hair inspo and advice, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

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