If you have a bunch of t-shirts lying around collecting dust, why not turn them into something useful and cozy? Making a t-shirt blanket is a great way to repurpose those old shirts and create something fun and functional. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your memories alive and create a unique and personalized blanket that you can cherish for years to come.

Making a t-shirt blanket may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. With a few basic supplies and some easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a cozy and comfortable blanket that is perfect for snuggling up during those chilly evenings. In this article, we will guide you through the steps you need to follow to make your very own t-shirt blanket. So, grab your scissors and let’s get started!

Materials Needed

Before you start making your t-shirt blanket, there are a few things you’ll need to gather:

1. T-shirts

The most important material you’ll need is t-shirts. You can use any t-shirts you have, including those that are outdated or too small for you to wear. However, the t-shirts should be clean and unstained.

2. Scissors

You’ll need a pair of sharp scissors to cut the t-shirts into squares. Make sure they are strong enough to cut through multiple layers of fabric.

3. Cutting Mat or Cardboard

A cutting mat or cardboard will help you cut the t-shirts into squares with ease. It will also prevent any damage to your work surface.

4. Ruler

A ruler will help you measure the t-shirt squares and ensure that they are the same size.

5. Sewing Machine

You’ll need a sewing machine to sew the t-shirts squares together.

6. Thread

You’ll need thread that matches the color of your t-shirts.

7. Pins

Pins will help you keep the t-shirts in place while sewing them together.

8. Iron

You’ll need an iron to press the t-shirts squares and seams. This will give your t-shirt blanket a professional look.

9. Fusible Interfacing

Fusible interfacing is a thin fabric that is ironed onto the back of the t-shirt squares to reinforce the fabric and prevent it from stretching or tearing.

10. Batting

Batting is the stuffing used to give your t-shirt blanket its thickness and warmth. You can use any type of batting you like, but make sure it’s appropriate for your climate.

Choosing the Right T-Shirts

When making a t-shirt blanket, the most crucial step is to pick the right t-shirts. You obviously want to choose t-shirts that hold some sentimental value to you, such as those sold at concerts or events you’ve attended, or t-shirts from school sports teams, clubs or organizations you have been a part of. However, there are some factors to consider before you start cutting your t-shirts.

Quality Over Quantity

It may be tempting to use every t-shirt that holds a special memory for you, but you need to be realistic. The quality of the material matters, and the t-shirts you use should be of a similar quality. Avoid using t-shirts that are ripped or stained, as they will not add to the overall aesthetic of the blanket.

Picking the Right Size

It’s important to consider the size of the t-shirts as well. Using t-shirts that vary in size will make it more difficult to put the blanket together. Instead, choose t-shirts that are relatively the same size.

Choosing the Right Color Scheme

Every quilt has its unique color scheme, and for a t-shirt blanket, it’s no different. Consider the colors of the shirts that you are using, and try to create a cohesive color scheme. It could be a color that represents your high school or college, or you could base it on the event or concerts that the shirts are from.

Cut with Care

Once you’ve decided which t-shirts you’re going to use, it’s time to start cutting. Take your time and cut the t-shirts properly, making sure that the design is centered correctly. Make sure that you have the necessary tools such as a rotary cutter, ruler, or scissors. Always make your cuts larger than the desired size, as it makes it easier to sew later on.

Separate fronts and backs

When cutting the t-shirts, make sure that you separate the fronts and backs. Some t-shirts have designs printed on both the front and back, while others have designs only on the front. Be sure to label and keep the separate pieces apart so that you don’t end up with odd designs on your blanket, which can be a real eyesore.

Eliminating Stretching

T-shirt material can stretch easily, which can make them challenging to work with. To avoid any unnecessary stretching, iron all the pieces before sewing them together. This step will help to make all the pieces uniform, and it will be more comfortable to sew them later on.

Choosing a Backing Material

While the t-shirts will be the focal point of your blanket, you will need to choose a backing material to complete the process. Some people prefer to use fleece for their backing material, while others choose to use flannel. It’s a personal preference, but it’s recommended to use a material that is the same weight and texture as the t-shirts you are using.

Cutting the Backing Material

Once you’ve chosen your backing material, it’s time to cut it to the right size. You will want to make sure that the backing fabric is the same size or slightly larger than the t-shirts you are using. You can choose to sew the fabric directly onto the t-shirt pieces, or you can create a border around each t-shirt.

Sewing the Blanket Together

Now that you have all the pieces cut and ironed, it’s time to put everything together. It’s critical to take your time while you sew the pieces together, making sure that they line up correctly. Begin with the t-shirts in the middle of the blanket and work outwards. Sew each row of t-shirts together, and then sew the rows together until you have your completed blanket.

Finishing Touches

Once you’ve sewn all the t-shirts and backing fabric together, it’s time to add any finishing touches. You can add a border around the edge, or you can sew around the outside edges to ensure that it doesn’t fray. Finally, wash and dry your blanket to ensure that it’s ready for a lifetime of use and memories.

Choosing the right t-shirts for your blanket

Making a t-shirt blanket requires you to have a collection of t-shirts that you’d like to use. Before you get ahead of yourself, it’s important to understand the type of t-shirts that are best suited for making a blanket. Here are some subheadings to guide you!

Material and quality check:

The type of material and quality of your t-shirts can determine the durability and longevity of the blanket you make. Cotton t-shirts are the best to use because they are soft and comfortable, and they do not stretch easily. When you’re choosing your t-shirts, ensure that they are made of 100% cotton and are not too thin or too baggy. You don’t want to use t-shirts that are thin as they will tear easily, and those that are too baggy as they will crease and wrinkle, making it harder to sew together.

Selecting a color scheme:

You’d want your blanket to look beautiful and aesthetically pleasing to the eyes. So, it’s important to choose t-shirts of similar color schemes or complementary colors. This will make the blanket look organized and put together.

Size:

When selecting t-shirts for your blanket, size is critical. Ensure that the t-shirts you choose are of similar sizes – especially for the front and back. The sleeves can be different sizes because they will be cut off and used for other parts of the blanket.

Cut the t-shirts:

Cut your t-shirt up, and measure each square to ensure it’s the right proportional size you need for your blanket. The pieces will navigate the creation of the blanket, so having them all consistent will make the process easier for you.

Quantity:

Finally, decide how many t-shirts you’d like in your blanket. The ideal number is around 10 – 12, keeping in mind the size of each shirt. This way, your blanket will have an appropriate size, and it will be easier to move around once the numerous t-shirts are pieced together.

Key takeaways:
• Choose 100% cotton t-shirts that are not too thin or baggy.
• Select a similar or complementary color scheme.
• Keep in mind the size of your t-shirts and ensure that they match.
• Decide on the number of t-shirts you’d like to have – usually around 10-12.

By now, you know how to choose the right t-shirts for your t-shirt blanket. The next step is to cut the t-shirts, so they can be neatly sewn together to create your beautiful blanket.

Enjoy Your Comfy Tshirt Blanket!

Now that you know how to make your own tshirt blanket, it’s time to get started! Once you finish collecting your tshirts, cutting them into squares, and sewing them together, you’ll have a unique and cozy blanket that is perfect for snuggling up on the couch. Thanks for reading this guide and I hope it was helpful for you. Don’t forget to come back soon for more fun and easy DIY projects!