Transform Your Old T-Shirts into a Stunning Quilt with Borders – A Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByJill Nammar

There’s something special about a t-shirt that holds memories of our favorite sports teams, concerts, or vacations. But what do you do when they no longer fit or become worn out? Instead of tossing them into the donation pile, why not turn them into a cozy quilt? And for an added touch, why not add borders for an extra pop of style? In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of creating a t-shirt quilt with borders, giving those beloved shirts new life and preserving their sentimental value. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting out, follow along to learn how to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake that will bring you joy for years to come.

What is a T-shirt Quilt?

A T-shirt quilt is a creative and sentimental way to repurpose old or meaningful t-shirts. It allows you to preserve memories and put them on display in a practical and functional way. A t-shirt quilt typically consists of cutting out squares from t-shirts and sewing them together to create a large patchwork-style blanket.

Why Add Borders to Your T-shirt Quilt?

Borders are an essential aspect of a t-shirt quilt that often gets overlooked. They serve multiple purposes, including adding stability to the quilt, framing the design, and providing additional space for creativity. The borders also help to evenly distribute the weight of the quilt, making it more comfortable to use.

Additionally, adding borders can enhance the overall look of your t-shirt quilt by creating a finished and polished appearance. Borders can be used to tie in other fabrics or colors that complement the t-shirts used in the quilt. They can also be used to create a contrast with the shirts or add visual interest by using patterns or textures.

What You Will Need

To make a t-shirt quilt with borders, you will need several supplies before you get started:

  • T-shirts: Determine how many shirts you want to use based on your desired size for the finished quilt.
  • Fabric for Borders: Depending on how many borders you want and their sizes, acquire enough fabric to cover those dimensions.
  • Fusible Interfacing: This will help stabilize the stretchy material of the t-shirts so they will be easier to work with.
  • Sewing Machine: A basic machine will work fine; however, if you have access to one with quilting capabilities, it may make things easier.
  • Thread: Choose thread colors that either match or complement your t-shirts and border fabrics.
  • Ruler and Rotary Cutter: These tools will come in handy when cutting your t-shirts and border fabric into the desired size.
  • Iron and Ironing Board: You will need to iron the t-shirts and borders as you work with them to ensure they lay flat.
  • Pins or Clips: These will help hold the t-shirts and borders in place as you sew them together.
  • Batting: This is the filling for your quilt, choose one that is appropriate for the weight and warmth level you desire for your quilt.

Step By Step Guide

  1. Select Your T-Shirts: Choose shirts that have sentimental value or a common theme (such as sports teams, concerts, etc.). Avoid using shirts with large graphics on them, as they may not fit properly into your quilt’s design.

  2. Prepare Your Shirts: Wash and dry your shirts before you begin working with them. This will prevent any potential shrinking later on. Then cut out squares from each shirt, making sure they are all the same size. It’s recommended to use a standard square size (such as 12 inches) for simplicity.

  3. Cut Out Borders: Determine how many borders you want on your quilt and cut out strips of fabric accordingly. The width of the border strips should match the width of your t-shirt squares, plus seam allowance.

  4. Attach Fusible Interfacing: Once you have cut out all of your t-shirt squares, iron fusible interfacing onto the back of each square. This will help stabilize the stretchy material and prevent it from shifting as you sew.

  5. Layout Your Design: Now it’s time to lay out your t-shirt and border squares in the desired pattern. You can arrange them in any way you like, just make sure to alternate between t-shirts and borders, so your quilt has a consistent look.

  6. Sew the Squares Together: Start by sewing together each individual row of squares. Use a straight stitch with a small seam allowance (around ¼ inch) to ensure stability. After you have sewn all of the rows together, attach them to each other to complete the quilt top.

  7. Add the Borders: Now it’s time to add the border strips. Start by sewing on two sides of your quilt top and then repeat for the remaining two sides. Make sure to use a consistent seam allowance and backstitch at each end for strength.

  8. Add Batting: Once your quilt top is complete, lay it on a flat surface and place batting on top of it

    What is a Tshirt Quilt

    A tshirt quilt is a unique and creative way to repurpose your old t-shirts and turn them into something functional and sentimental. By sewing together your favorite t-shirts, you can create a cozy quilt that not only keeps you warm but also reminds you of all the special memories associated with each shirt.

    Why Add Borders to Your Tshirt Quilt

    Adding borders to your tshirt quilt not only adds a decorative element, but it also serves a practical purpose. Borders help to frame the quilt and create a clean and finished look. They also add stability to the overall structure of the quilt, ensuring that it stays in place and doesn’t become misshapen over time.

    Materials Needed

    To make a tshirt quilt with borders, you will need:
    – Tshirts (at least 12-15 depending on the desired size of your quilt)
    – Fabric for borders (cotton or flannel works best)
    – Quilt batting (cotton or polyester blend)
    – Backing fabric (cotton or flannel)
    – Sewing machine
    – Scissors
    – Ruler
    – Rotary cutter (optional)

    Step-by-step Guide

    1. Gather Your Tshirts: Start by collecting the tshirts you want to use for your quilt. Make sure they are clean and in good condition.
    2. Cut Out Squares: Using scissors or a rotary cutter, cut out squares from each tshirt. You can make them all the same size or vary them for a more unique look. Aim for around 15”x15” squares to allow for seam allowances.
    3. Create Borders: Cut out strips from your border fabric that are 4-5 inches wide. The length of these strips will depend on the size of your quilt and how many borders you want to add. Aim for enough strips to go around the entire perimeter of your quilt.
    4. Measure and Trim: Lay out your tshirt squares in the desired pattern for your quilt. Measure the length and width of this layout to determine the dimensions of your borders. Add an extra ½ inch to each side for seam allowances.
    5. Sew Borders: Take one border strip and sew it to one side of your quilt top, right sides together. Repeat on the opposite side, making sure to cut off any excess border fabric at the end. Then sew on the remaining two borders.
    6. Add Batting and Backing: Lay out your backing fabric with the right side facing down. Then place a layer of quilt batting on top, followed by your quilt top with borders facing up. Smooth out any wrinkles or bumps.
    7. Sew With a Quilting Pattern: Starting at one end, sew through all three layers using a quilting pattern of your choice. You can use a basic straight stitch or get creative with different designs.
    8. Trim Excess Fabric: Once you have finished sewing, trim excess fabric from around the edges of your quilt, leaving about 1 inch around all sides.
    9. Add Binding: Cut fabric strips from your border fabric that are 2-3 inches wide. Sew them together to create one long strip that is long enough to go around your entire quilt perimeter plus a little extra.
    10. Sew Binding On: Fold over one end of the binding strip and iron it flat. Then starting from the middle of one side, pin the binding strip around the edges of your quilt, folding it over the raw edges and sewing it in place.
    11. Finish and Enjoy: Once you have sewn on the binding, trim off any excess and sew the ends together. Then fold over the binding and hand-sew it to the back of your quilt. Voila! Your tshirt quilt with borders is complete.

    Tips and Tricks

    • If you are using different sized tshirts, trim them down to be as close to the same size as possible for easier assembling.
    • Make sure your tshirt squares all face in the same direction before sewing them together.
    • For a more personal touch, use fabric markers or embroidery to add names or dates to some of your tshirts.
    • If you don’t have any old tshirts but still want to make a tshirt quilt, try using vintage or novelty tshirts found at thrift stores or garage sales.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Can I use other types of fabric besides tshirts for my quilt?

    A: Yes, you can use any type

    1. What supplies do I need to make a Tshirt quilt with borders?
    You will need a sewing machine, fabric scissors, pins, a ruler or measuring tape, Tshirts, fabric for the borders, batting material for the middle layer, and backing fabric.

    2. How many Tshirts do I need for a Tshirt quilt with borders?
    The number of Tshirts you will need depends on the size of your quilt. On average, you will need 20-30 Tshirts for a lap quilt and 50-60 for a queen-sized quilt.

    3. How should I prepare the Tshirts before making the quilt?
    Wash and dry all the Tshirts to prevent any shrinkage after completing your quilt. Cut out the designs or logos from each shirt and arrange them in a layout before beginning to sew.

    4. Can I use different sizes of Tshirts for my quilt?
    Yes, you can use different sizes as long as they are all relatively close in size. You may need to add extra border fabric to make up for any uneven edges.

    5. How wide should the borders be on my Tshirt quilt?
    The width of your borders is entirely up to your preference. However, it is recommended to have at least 3 inches of border on each side to provide enough space for sewing and prevent any distortion of the design.

    6. What type of stitch should I use when sewing my Tshirt quilt with borders?
    A straight or zigzag stitch works well when sewing fabric together for a Tshirt quilt with borders. It is also recommended to use a walking foot on your sewing machine to prevent any stretching or distortion of the fabric layers.

    In conclusion, making a Tshirt quilt with borders can be a fun and rewarding experience for anyone looking to repurpose their old tshirts into a practical and sentimental keepsake. The key steps to creating a successful Tshirt quilt with borders include choosing the right materials, preparing the tshirts, planning the layout, sewing the blocks together, adding borders, and finishing with backing and binding. Throughout this process, it is important to pay attention to detail and take your time to ensure a professional-looking outcome.

    Additionally, it is crucial to consider the size and design of your Tshirt quilt before beginning as this will impact the amount of fabric needed and how many tshirts can be included. An organized approach to planning and labeling each block can also save time and prevent mistakes.

    Aside from being a great way to repurpose old tshirts, making a Tshirt quilt with borders also has various benefits such as preserving memories, being environmentally friendly, and providing warmth during colder months. It is also a great DIY project that can be personalized according to one’s preferences.

    By following the steps outlined in this guide and utilizing tips such as using interfacing or creating sashing between blocks, individuals can create a unique and durable Tshirt quilt with borders that will be cherished for years

    Author Profile

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    Jill Nammar
    My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
    I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

    My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

    From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

    The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

    Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.