Upcycling Your Fabric: Transforming Old Shirts and Dresses into New Creations

Hey Crafting Friends!

So, I was sorting through my wardrobe the other day, and I found a few old summer dresses and shirts that were just… well, past their prime. You know the ones – maybe a stain here or there, or just a bit too worn to wear out. Instead of tossing them, I thought, 'Let's get creative!' That's when I decided to dive into upcycling, and honestly, it's been so much fun! I'm all about giving things a second life, and this is such a brilliant way to do it. Let's chat about how we can transform those old favourites into something new and beautiful.

Why I'm Loving Upcycling (and Why I Think You Will Too!):

• It's just so good for our planet! We can keep these textiles out of landfills, and that's a huge win in my book.
• And, let's be honest, it's great fun! You get to be your own designer and create something totally unique.
• Plus, it's a fantastic way to save a bit of money.
• Seeing something old become something new is really rewarding.
• Easy projects for beginners.

Let's Make a Patchwork Cushion Cover!

One of my favourite things to make from old shirts or dresses is a patchwork cushion cover. It adds such a cosy, handmade touch to any room, and I added a heart to mine for a bit of extra charm.

Materials:

• Old shirts and summer dresses
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or hand-sewing needle and thread
• Pins
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Paper for the heart template or motif of your choice
• Cushion insert (size of your choice)

Instructions:

1. Cut Your Fabric: Cut your old shirts and dresses into squares, rectangles, or any shapes you like. I personally like to mix it up!
2. Arrange Your Patchwork: Lay out your fabric pieces in a pleasing arrangement for the front of your cushion cover.
3. Sew the Patchwork: Sew the fabric pieces together to create a larger piece of fabric that's slightly bigger than your cushion insert.
4. Create the Heart Template: Draw a heart shape on a piece of paper and cut it out.
5. Cut the Heart: Choose a piece or many pieces of fabric for your heart appliqué and use the template to cut out the heart shape. Sew the pieces together and trim into your heart shape after.
6. Attach the Heart: Pin the heart to the centre of your patchwork front and sew it on using a zigzag stitch or a straight stitch close to the edge.
7. Cut the Backing: Cut a piece of fabric from one of your old garments for the back of the cushion cover. You can use one large piece or create a patchwork back as well.
8. Sew the Cushion Cover: Place the front and back pieces right sides together and sew around the edges, leaving an opening for the cushion insert.
9. Turn and Insert: Turn the cushion cover right side out and insert your cushion.
10. Close the Opening: Hand-stitch the opening closed. Alternatively, create a pillow opening so you can remove the cover for washing or add a zip or button fastening.

Scrap-Busting Ideas! (Using Shirts and Dresses):

• You can make the most beautiful patchwork quilts from old shirts and dresses.
• Little fabric baskets are perfect for keeping your craft supplies organised.
• How about some fabric bunting for your crafting space? So easy and so cheerful!
• I also keep a bag of old cotton clothing, and cut it up to use as cleaning rags.
• Small fabric bags for holding lavender, or other dried herbs.

My Upcycling Tips:

• Don't be afraid to experiment! That's where the magic happens.
• And remember, it's all about having fun!
• If you have any stained areas, try to cut around them.

I'd absolutely love to see what you create! Share your upcycled projects in the comments, and let's inspire each other.

If you don't yet have a fabric stash, check out my Fat Quarters section to find the best cotton fabrics for quilting (click here to go to my shop).

From my crafting table to yours,

Ashley