How Do You Make a Tee Shirt Blanket Step by Step?

AvatarByAndrea Broussard Shirts & Tops

There’s something uniquely comforting about a tee shirt blanket—a cozy, personalized quilt made from your favorite worn-in tees that carry memories, stories, and style. Whether it’s a collection of concert shirts, sports jerseys, or childhood favorites, transforming these beloved garments into a warm, snuggly blanket is a creative way to preserve those moments while crafting a one-of-a-kind keepsake. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a tee shirt blanket, you’re about to discover a fun and rewarding project that blends nostalgia with practical comfort.

Making a tee shirt blanket is more than just sewing fabric together; it’s about stitching memories into a tangible form that you can wrap yourself in. This process involves selecting the right shirts, preparing them for crafting, and assembling the pieces in a way that balances both aesthetics and durability. The beauty of this project lies in its versatility—you can tailor the size, style, and design to suit your personal taste or the recipient’s preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner looking for a meaningful DIY project, learning how to make a tee shirt blanket opens the door to endless creative possibilities. As you delve deeper, you’ll find that this craft not only results in a cozy blanket but also offers a heartfelt way to celebrate your favorite memories and

Preparing Your T-Shirts for the Blanket

Before assembling your tee shirt blanket, it is essential to properly prepare each shirt to ensure a clean, durable final product. Begin by selecting t-shirts that are clean, washed, and fully dried to avoid any shrinkage or color bleeding after the blanket is made.

Carefully cut each t-shirt to isolate the front panel, which typically contains the graphic or print you want to showcase. To do this, cut straight across just below the armpits and then down each side, removing the sleeves and back panel. Use sharp fabric scissors for clean edges and avoid jagged cuts.

Once all the front panels are cut, you may want to square them off to ensure uniform size throughout the blanket. Lay each panel flat and trim edges so that all pieces have consistent dimensions, generally around 12 to 15 inches square. This uniformity will make the sewing process easier and the blanket look more professional.

If desired, stabilize the t-shirt panels by ironing lightweight fusible interfacing to the back of each piece. This step helps prevent stretching and adds firmness, particularly useful for thinner or worn shirts.

Choosing the Right Backing and Batting

The backing fabric and batting are crucial components that add warmth, structure, and comfort to your tee shirt blanket. Your choice will affect the texture, weight, and overall feel of the finished blanket.

Common backing materials include:

  • Fleece: Soft, warm, and easy to sew, fleece backing complements the casual look of tee shirts.
  • Flannel: Lightweight and cozy, flannel adds a traditional quilt feel.
  • Cotton fabric: Provides a smooth finish and breathability but requires additional batting for softness.

Batting options vary in thickness and fiber type:

  • Polyester batting: Affordable, lightweight, and washable.
  • Cotton batting: Natural fiber, breathable, and has a matte finish.
  • Wool batting: Warm and durable but often more expensive.

When selecting batting thickness, consider the blanket’s intended use. Thicker batting creates a warmer blanket but can be bulkier and harder to sew.

Backing Fabric Characteristics Best Use
Fleece Soft, warm, stretchy Casual, cozy blankets
Flannel Lightweight, breathable, soft Traditional quilt feel
Cotton Fabric Breathable, smooth finish Lightweight blankets, warmer climates

Assembling and Sewing the Blanket

Once your t-shirt panels and backing materials are prepared, lay out the t-shirt squares in the desired pattern on a flat surface. You may arrange them randomly or group by color or theme. Pin each t-shirt panel together edge-to-edge, right sides facing up.

If your panels are not perfectly square, consider sewing a narrow seam allowance (about ¼ inch) to join them, pressing seams flat after sewing to avoid bulk. Using a sewing machine with a ballpoint needle is recommended to prevent fabric damage.

After assembling all t-shirt panels into rows, sew the rows together in the same manner. Once the top layer is complete, place it on top of the batting and backing fabric, right sides facing out (t-shirt side up, backing side down). Pin or baste all three layers together securely.

To quilt the layers, stitch along the seam lines between t-shirt panels or use a simple straight-line quilting pattern across the blanket. This quilting step adds durability and keeps the batting evenly distributed.

Finally, finish the edges of the blanket with binding or by folding the backing fabric over the edge and sewing it down for a clean, professional look.

Tips for Enhancing Durability and Aesthetics

  • Use a stretch or jersey needle for sewing the t-shirt fabric to reduce skipped stitches.
  • Reinforce seams with a double stitch or zigzag stitch to accommodate the stretchy nature of t-shirts.
  • Consider pre-washing all fabric components to minimize future shrinkage.
  • Use coordinating thread colors to blend with the t-shirts or contrast for a decorative effect.
  • Add decorative quilting stitches or embroidery to personalize the blanket further.
  • Label or tag the blanket with a custom patch or embroidery to commemorate its significance.

By following these detailed steps and tips, your tee shirt blanket will be both visually appealing and long-lasting.

Gathering Materials and Preparing Your T-Shirts

Creating a tee shirt blanket begins with selecting the right materials to ensure durability, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. The quality and condition of your t-shirts will directly impact the final product.

  • T-Shirts Selection: Choose 20 to 40 t-shirts depending on your desired blanket size. Opt for 100% cotton or cotton blends for softness and ease of sewing. Avoid shirts with excessive wear or damage unless you plan to use patches.
  • Blanket Backing Fabric: Select a backing material such as fleece, flannel, or quilt batting to add warmth and stability. Fleece is popular for its softness and stretch.
  • Thread and Sewing Supplies: Use a strong, polyester thread to prevent breakage. Ensure you have fabric scissors, pins or clips, a sewing machine with a stretch or ballpoint needle, and measuring tools.
  • Additional Tools: Rotary cutter and cutting mat for precise cuts, and a quilting ruler for measuring squares evenly.

Before cutting, wash and dry all t-shirts to pre-shrink the fabric and remove any residues. Iron each shirt to eliminate wrinkles and make cutting easier.

Cutting and Arranging the T-Shirt Squares

The next step involves cutting uniform squares from your t-shirts and arranging them into the desired blanket pattern. This step requires accuracy to ensure the final blanket is even and visually balanced.

  • Determine Square Size: Common sizes range from 8 to 12 inches per side. Larger squares reduce sewing time but may limit the number of shirts used.
  • Cutting the Shirts: Lay each shirt flat and cut out the front graphic panel or a plain section into squares. Use a rotary cutter and quilting ruler for clean, straight edges.
  • Include Sleeve and Collar Areas: For added variety, consider incorporating sleeves or collar areas if they contain important graphics or logos.
  • Layout Planning: Arrange the squares on a large flat surface or design wall. Alternate colors, patterns, and shirt types to achieve a balanced and aesthetically pleasing design.
Square Size Approximate Number of Squares Needed Blanket Dimensions (Approx.)
8 inches 35 – 40 48″ x 56″
10 inches 25 – 30 50″ x 60″
12 inches 20 – 25 48″ x 60″

Sewing the Tee Shirt Squares Together

Once the layout is finalized, the squares must be sewn together to form the blanket top. Proper sewing techniques ensure the blanket maintains its shape and withstands use.

  • Join Squares in Rows: Start by sewing squares together side-by-side to create rows. Use a ½-inch seam allowance and a straight stitch. Pin the edges carefully to prevent shifting.
  • Press Seams: After sewing each row, press the seams open or to one side with an iron. This reduces bulk and helps rows align evenly.
  • Sew Rows Together: Align and pin rows to sew them together, matching seams for a neat finish. Maintain consistent seam allowances throughout.
  • Reinforce Seams: For added durability, consider double-stitching or using a zigzag stitch along the edges.

Maintain even tension on the fabric to avoid puckering. Work slowly and check alignment frequently to ensure a smooth, flat blanket top.

Attaching the Backing and Finishing the Blanket

After assembling the tee shirt top, the backing fabric is attached to provide warmth and a finished look. Finishing touches complete the blanket.

  • Cut Backing Fabric: Cut the backing slightly larger (about 1 to 2 inches) than the tee shirt top to allow for seam allowances.
  • Layering: Place the backing fabric right side down on a flat surface. Position the tee shirt blanket top right side up on top, aligning edges.
  • Pin or Clip: Secure the layers together around the perimeter to prevent shifting during sewing.
  • Sew Perimeter: Using a ½-inch seam allowance, sew around the entire edge, leaving a 6 to 8-inch gap for turning.
  • Turn and Press: Turn the blanket right side out through the gap, carefully pushing out corners. Press edges flat with an iron.
  • Close Opening: Hand sew or machine stitch the opening closed with an invisible stitch.
  • Optional Quilting: For additional stability, quilt the layers by sewing through all fabric layers in a grid or along seams.
  • Edge Finishing: Add binding or topstitch around the edges for a professional finish and added durability.

Expert Perspectives on Crafting a Tee Shirt Blanket

Linda Martinez (Textile Designer and Craft Instructor). Crafting a tee shirt blanket requires careful selection of shirts that hold sentimental value and fabric integrity. I recommend pre-washing all shirts to prevent shrinkage and color bleeding. Using a consistent cutting pattern for each square ensures a uniform and professional finish. Additionally, incorporating a soft backing fabric can enhance durability and comfort.

James O’Connor (Professional Quilter and Sewing Expert). When making a tee shirt blanket, the key is stabilizing the knit fabric of the shirts to avoid stretching during sewing. Applying fusible interfacing to the back of each shirt panel provides structure and makes the sewing process smoother. It is also important to use a ballpoint needle to prevent fabric damage and to choose thread colors that complement the shirt designs.

Emily Chen (DIY Blogger and Fabric Arts Educator). The most important aspect of creating a tee shirt blanket is planning the layout to tell a story or highlight memories. I advise organizing the shirts by theme, color, or chronology before cutting. Seam allowances should be consistent, and finishing edges with a serger or zigzag stitch will prevent fraying. Taking time to press seams flat during assembly greatly improves the blanket’s overall appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What materials do I need to make a tee shirt blanket?
You will need several clean, 100% cotton tee shirts, a pair of sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter, a cutting mat, a ruler or measuring tape, and a sewing machine or fabric glue for assembling the blanket.

How do I prepare the tee shirts before cutting them?
Wash and dry all tee shirts to pre-shrink the fabric. Then, iron them flat to remove wrinkles, ensuring accurate cutting and alignment.

What is the best method to cut the tee shirts for a blanket?
Cut the tee shirts into uniform squares or rectangles, typically 12×12 inches, by cutting just below the armpits to avoid seams and logos. Use a ruler and rotary cutter for precision.

How do I assemble the tee shirt pieces into a blanket?
Lay out the cut pieces in your desired pattern, then sew them together edge-to-edge using a straight stitch. Alternatively, use fabric glue or iron-on adhesive for a no-sew option, though sewing provides better durability.

Can I add a backing to my tee shirt blanket?
Yes, adding a soft backing like fleece or flannel enhances warmth and durability. Attach it by sewing around the edges or quilting through all layers for a finished look.

How do I care for a tee shirt blanket?
Wash the blanket gently in cold water on a delicate cycle and air dry or tumble dry on low heat to maintain fabric integrity and prevent shrinking.
Creating a tee shirt blanket is a meaningful and creative way to preserve memories while producing a functional and cozy item. The process involves selecting a collection of tee shirts, carefully cutting them into uniform squares or rectangles, and then assembling these pieces through sewing or no-sew methods. Attention to detail in measuring, arranging, and stitching ensures the final product is both visually appealing and durable.

Key considerations include choosing the right materials and tools, such as a rotary cutter, sewing machine, or fabric adhesive, depending on the preferred technique. Pre-washing the shirts and stabilizing the fabric can improve the blanket’s longevity and comfort. Additionally, planning the layout before assembly helps achieve a balanced and personalized design that reflects the wearer’s style or memories.

Overall, making a tee shirt blanket combines craftsmanship with sentimentality, resulting in a unique keepsake that can be cherished for years. Whether for personal use or as a thoughtful gift, this project offers an accessible way to upcycle old garments into something new and meaningful. With patience and precision, anyone can successfully create a tee shirt blanket that stands the test of time.

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Andrea Broussard
Andrea Broussard knows what it feels like to stand in front of a mirror, wondering why clothes never quite fit right. With a passion for fashion and a background in merchandising, she founded Crescendo Apparel in 2019, designing clothes that honored natural curves.

But Andrea also recognized that fit is only part of the story. Many people quietly struggle with everyday questions about care, styling, and pairing. Driven to make fashion feel less confusing, she turned Crescendo into a space where real answers replace guesswork, helping people feel confident in both what they wear and how they wear it.