Altered Beach T-Shirt

Do you have a bunch of beach t-shirts lying around taking up valuable space? Upcycle them into "one of a kind" unique creations! "Sew-Easy" and "No-Sew" directions included!

I bought this over-sized t-shirt on a trip to the beach several years ago.  I loved the color and the beach design, but it was "boxy", too long, and lacked style. I thought about making it into a pillow, and then I decided to "upcycle" it into something useful that I would really like to wear.

First I folded the shirt and cut a curved shape off the bottom. I finished the bottom by stitching on my serger. 

Before - Boring T-Shirt

Next, I decided the sleeves would be transformed into ties.  I cut off the top and bottom of the sleeves and the remaining hem, leaving two strips on each sleeve.  Again, I serged all edges.

I tied the 2 strips into a square knot on each sleeve. To tie a square knot, first put right strip under left strip and tie, then put left under right and tie.

Sleeve knot adds a designer touch!

When I tried the "new" t-shirt on, I decided to seam sides in the under arm area for a better fit.  My Beach T-Shirt is complete! 

After - Stylish Beach Shirt!

Ms. Nancy's Notes:

• I finished all the edges on my t-shirt on my Serger, but they could be finished with a zigzag stitch if you do not have a Serger machine. 

• For a "no-sew" t-shirt, simply cut and tie without sewing.  The edges will simply roll up naturally, creating a finished look.