You know that moment when you need to throw away the shirt that no longer fits…
Or, it is your favourite but it has a sneaky little hole in it but you LOVE the print on the front.
Yeah, I know! That! That’s gotta be a fashion crime I think.
Well fret no more, I am here to help you and show you what you can do. It’s so easy.
All can be saved and get ready to recycle / upcycle (whatever you want to call it), hello Fashionista’s.
Here I have used one of my favourite little T’s that “Miss Little” has grown out of (*sniff).
Step One:
- Select your shirt print or motif that you are going to recycle, and new t-shirt of choice.
- Wash new shirt (to preshrink it).
- Measure approx ½” to 1″ around motif or print and cut out shape.
Step two:
- Find the centre of new t-shirt and pin motif or print evenly and securely matching centres.
- Depending on motif or print leave approximately 2 inches below mid front neckline.
Step three:
- Check all pins are secure and ready to sew.
- Importantly, check your motif or print is straight – adjust now if you need to.
Step four:
- Stitch slowly over motif if your machine can handle the bulk other wise make use of your border that you cut out.
- Stitch in a zig-zag stitch for stretch knit – this prevents the thread snapping and breaking when wearing and stretching garment.
- You can see I zig-zag stitched over the sequins but close to the border (I have a machine that can handle this).
Hot Tips:
- You don’t have to machine sew you can hand sew this if you wish.
- You can affix a double sided iron on adhesive first onto the back of the motif or print and heat set it into place rather than pins.
- Remember never iron onto the motif or print – use the reverse side of fabric or use a pressing cloth over the motif.
- For extra security you can use a “tear-a-way” behind motif as well before stitching for extra body if you think you shirt may be too thin.
- Snip off some extra border to bring your design in a little closer – I did this after these photos were taken.
- There is no need to overlock or edge a stretch knit motif or print as it won’t fray. It gives a cute little curl on the edge.
So there you have it – a super easy and rather quick DIY for keeping something going in the wardrobe for a few dollars.
I’m happy and “Miss Little” is happy too.
Have you ever done anything like this? Or can you give me a tip with something you have saved before – I’d love to know.
PS: Don’t forget to leave your comments below.
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