DIY T-Shirt Wreath: A Creative Upcycling Project

Updated at: 14/03/2025

Tired of overflowing clothes hampers and a closet bursting at the seams? Instead of tossing those old t-shirts, let's explore a fun and rewarding way to give them a new lease on life! This guide delves into the exciting world of DIY t-shirt wreaths, transforming unwanted garments into charming and unique home décor. Upcycling is not only environmentally conscious but also a fantastic outlet for creativity, allowing you to personalize your home with pieces that reflect your individual style and tell a story. You'll be surprised at how easily those forgotten tees can be transformed into beautiful, eye-catching wreaths perfect for any season or occasion.

This project is perfect for crafters of all skill levels, requiring minimal tools and materials. From choosing your t-shirts to the final touches, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you achieve a stunning result. Ready to turn your textile trash into treasure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below and create your own magnificent DIY t-shirt wreath!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Old t-shirt
  • Craft felt
  • Felt embellishments
  • String
  • Foam embellishments
  • Styrofoam wreath shape
  • Thick craft glue
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Pencil
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors or fabric shears carefully to avoid cuts. Always cut away from yourself and your body.
  • If using hot glue, work in a well-ventilated area and keep away from flammable materials. Adult supervision is required.
  • Be mindful of the fabric's condition. Avoid using heavily stained or damaged shirts which may fray or tear easily during crafting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare T-Shirt Strips

    • Cut off the bottom seam of the t-shirt and cut strips from end to end. Aim for strips about 1 inch wide.
    • Cut down the length of the t-shirt, including sleeves, up to the neck. Cuts don't need to be perfect.
    • Open up the loops and pull the piece between your hands to curl the strips.
    Open up the loops and pull the piece between your hands to curl the strips.Open up the loops and pull the piece between your hands to curl the strips.Open up the loops and pull the piece between your hands to curl the strips.
    Prepare T-Shirt Strips

  2. Create the Wreath Base

    • Tie the loops around the styrofoam wreath shape, keeping the knotted section at the top edge. Trim after each loop.
    Tie the loops around the styrofoam wreath shape, keeping the knotted section at the top edge. Trim after each loop.
    Create the Wreath Base

  3. Add Texture and Dimension

    • Add jute cord or novelty yarn between the t-shirt strips for added texture.
    • Scrunch the t-shirt loops together as you add more for a fuller, more textured look.
    Scrunch the t-shirt loops together as you add more for a fuller, more textured look.
    Add Texture and Dimension

  4. Decorate the Wreath

    • Add felt embellishments, letters, or other decorations using glue to secure them.
    Add felt embellishments, letters, or other decorations using glue to secure them.
    Decorate the Wreath

  5. Add Hanging Loop

    • Add a final piece of t-shirt to the back to create a loop for hanging.

Read more: DIY Picture Frame from Oat Cartons and Fabric: A Simple & Unique Craft

Tips

  • Using a ruler helps create consistently wide t-shirt strips.
  • Choose your favorite colors for a personalized touch.
  • Pre-cutting all loops is an option but the raggedy look adds charm.
  • Add a little extra glue to embellishments for extra security.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using T-shirts that are too stretchy

Reason: Stretchy fabrics will make it difficult to maintain the shape of your wreath and can lead to an uneven, lopsided final product.
Solution: Choose sturdy, less elastic t-shirts for a more structured wreath.

2. Cutting the t-shirt strips inconsistently

Reason: Uneven strips will result in a messy and unprofessional-looking wreath.
Solution: Use a ruler and rotary cutter for consistent strip width and length.

3. Wrapping the strips too loosely or too tightly

Reason: Loose wrapping will create gaps and an unfinished look; tight wrapping can make the wreath appear dense and inflexible.
Solution: Aim for a balance – tightly enough to hold shape, but loosely enough to allow for some flexibility.

FAQs

What kind of t-shirts work best for a t-shirt wreath?
Soft, lightweight cotton t-shirts work best. Avoid heavy fabrics or those with excessive embellishments that might be difficult to work with.
How many t-shirts do I need for a wreath?
The number depends on the size of your wreath. A standard-sized wreath (around 12-14 inches) typically requires 5-7 adult-sized t-shirts. More shirts will create a fuller, fluffier wreath.
How do I prevent the wreath from unraveling?
Secure the knots tightly throughout the process. You can also use fabric glue or a sewing machine to reinforce particularly tricky areas. Once complete, you can lightly spritz the wreath with fabric stiffener for extra durability.