9 Unexpected Ways to Repurpose All Your Old T-Shirts

DIY Throw Pillows

Looking to spruce up your current bedding situation? Is your couch calling for something new (well, new-ish)? If your old tees boost a pretty design, transform them into one-of-a-kind throw pillows.

Look for throw pillow inserts—or use a previously purchased pillow in need of a makeover—and cut your shirts according to the insert's size and shape. Then, some simple stitches are all your need. (If you want to switch out your DIY pillow covers regularly, consider installing a hidden zipper, as well.)

Stitch a Sentimental Quilt

From those matching bachelorette party shirts to the one you got after running a 5K, each shirt holds a story. Channel your inner quilter, and you can turn them into a beautiful patchwork of memories.

Use old t-shirts to create a quirky, personalized blanket that's both sentimental and practical, suggests artisan Christina Argonish, owner of Sister Trade City, "Having each square featuring a design from an old shirt is a great way to showcase them and share the memories."

Craft Cloth Dinner Napkins

Cotton or linen shirts work best for this craft that takes old t-shirts and repurposes them into sets of cloth napkins for dining. Choose a brightly colored or patterned tee to add visual interest to your tabletop design, or mix and match sets for an eclectic feel.

Measure and cut squares from the fabric. (For cocktail napkins, use a 10-inch square of fabric; for dinner napkins, cut 20- to 24-inch squares.) Then, using a zigzag stitch, stitch together pairs to create two-ply cloth napkins. Want to make them extra unique? Layer together slices from different shirts, so each side touts a different color or pattern.

Rags for Dusting and Cleaning

While your cleaning rags may already consist of repurposed garments, it's still worth stating! Paper towels are convenient but not always the best for the environment. But instead of purchasing new cleaning cloths, you likely already have your pick of old tees that will suit just fine. Especially apt at dusting most surfaces, the soft fabric won't scratch things like glass or TV screens.

Sew a Scrunchie

Create a collection of scrunchies that span all the hues of the rainbow via that stack of old tees. Repurposing the fabric in this way will give those tees new life within your very closet. Follow the simple instructions here.

Make a Tote Bag

Why use the generic reusable totes from the grocery store when you could run around town with a unique bag on your shoulder? Take oversized tees that haven't been used in years and transform them into reusable shopping bags. Just cut off the sleeves and neckline, sew up the bottom, and voilà—a one-of-a-kind tote bag featuring your fave logo or graphic print.

Fabric Wall Art

Fabric wall art is a major 2025 home décor trend—but if you have some old t-shirts on hand, you don't need to spend a thing to incorporate the style. Argonish suggests taking an old shirt whose design you really love (or fits in with your home's aesthetic) and stretching the fabric over a canvas or a wooden frame for a unique piece of repurposed wall décor. "It'll be a conversation piece!" she says.

Drawstring Bags for Gift-Giving

Instead of creating more waste with disposable gift bags and wrapping paper, try your hand at crafting reusable drawstring bags using the fabric from old t-shirts. (They're also the perfect size for stashing trinkets or jewelry for travel.) Find the step-by-step instructions here.

DIY Cat Toys

Have a kitty that you want to spoil? Surprise them with a new handmade plaything just for them. To craft this knotted ball toy, cut up an old t-shirt into strips and tie them together. Attach it a longer string for hanging, and your kitty can bop and bat it to their heart's content.