Creating Cool Quilts out of T-Shirts

by Shelby Larsen July 24, 2020

Creating really Cool Quilts out of T-Shirts has never been this easy!

Have you been looking for a fun and creative way to recycle your old t-shirts?

Do you have drawers or boxes full of old t-shirts you haven't worn in years? Are they taking up space in your home, but you're still reluctant to throw them out?

Those t-shirts could hold memories of high school, college, a passed loved one, or great vacations you took years ago. Anyone would hate to simply throw them out!

Consider giving these t-shirts a new life in a cool quilt. You can do this at home in a few easy steps or an online retailer like would be happy to make cool quilts for you!

Where do you even start when making cool quilts?

Find the correct amount of T-shirts for the size of cool quilt you want. Here's a simple guide to follow:

Quilt Size Shirts Needed

Lap 16

Twin 24

Full 30

Queen 49

King 64

How much fabric do you need for your super cool quilts?

To make a full size cool quilt (60" x 72") you will need the following:

30 T-shirts - Works best with graphics that are 9" or less wide and 10" or less tall. If you use the front and back of a single T-shirt, you will need fewer.
60" x 72" backing

PRO TIP: It’s best to wash and dry your tees before beginning. Shirts that are a little worn are fine but avoid using those with holes or rips.

How do you cut the shirts?

Using a rotary cutter and a mat or a pair of scissors, cut the shoulder seam, sleeve seams and side seams of each t-shirt to separate the front from back. You’ll then need to cut out panels.

Pick a panel size, possibly 12x12 or 14x14, and cut the panels out using a ruler and rotary cutter. You’ll need 12 ½ inches of fabric for 12x12 panels and 14 ½ inches of fabric for 14x14 panels.

Pick the panel size based off the size of shirts and the size of the graphics on the shirts.

How do you sew the shirts together?

Lay out your squares to find a pleasing configuration. Pay attention to colors and prints to not bunch up similar t-shirts in the same area.

Now it’s time to sew your rows. Take your first and second squares from the first row graphic sides together and sew the left side. Next, put square 3 on square 2 and sew the right edge together. Continue until you’ve sewn your row. Press seams open to reduce bulk.

Once all your rows are made, it’s time to put them together. Pin row 1 to row 2 graphic sides together, aligning seams and sew the top seam. Then, press your seam open. Repeat until all your rows are sewn together.

How to complete your super cool quilt?

Find a material to use as the backing and sew the front and back together. Have fun with the color, print, and material. The possibilities are endless!

This is the opportune time to find a color or print that unites your t-shirts together or makes them stand out even more. One of your college colors might make a great choice!