What To Do with Old Clothes with Video
What can I make out of old clothes? I have 3 ways to use repurposed clothing to keep you warm during the winter. These projects are super easy, you might already have them lying around, and they can make great gift ideas as well.
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Are you wondering what to do with that pile of old clothes cluttering your closet? Don’t toss them out just yet! Instead, embark on a creative journey with these three fantastic ideas to repurpose your clothing into warm and thoughtful winter essentials. Not only are these projects incredibly easy, but they also make for unique and meaningful gift options. Let’s dive into the world of repurposed fashion!
What To Do with Old Clothes:
Repurposing: Giving New Purpose to Old Wardrobe Pieces
How do you make homemade hand warmers?
Fill the mittens with rice.
Sew or hot glue them closed.
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You can make them in a variety of shapes and sizes.
You can warm them in a microwave and use them as hand warmers. If you use hot glue, be careful not to warm it too much as the glue loosen. If this accidentally happens, just let it harden again and it’ll be fine.
You can also use them as cold packs by placing them in the freezer.
What is the best door draft stopper?
Try transforming old clothes into household items, like this door draft stopper.
My daughter’s leggings had a hole in one knee so I’ll be recycling the good leg into 1 door draft stopper. If you have a good set of leggings, you could make 2 door draft stoppers.
First you’ll cut the top part of the leggings off as you’ll only need the legs. Next you’ll close one end of the tights by either sewing or using a rubber band, hot glue, ribbon etc. Next you’ll fill it with rice, beans, sand, of your choice and then close the other end. If you live in a damp climate you can opt to put your rice/beans/sand inside a plastic bag first before going inside the legging.
That’s all there is too it and you have a door draft/windowsill stopper.
More household decor ideas made from clothes:
Here’s a list of creative ideas for household items you can make out of old clothes, along with brief descriptions:
T-shirt Tote Bag: Transform old T-shirts into reusable tote bags. Simply cut and stitch for a trendy and eco-friendly shopping companion.
Denim Placemats: Repurpose old denim jeans into stylish placemats by cutting them into rectangular shapes and adding fabric borders for a rustic touch.
Sweater Pillow Covers: Turn worn-out sweaters into cozy pillow covers by sewing and repurposing the fabric for a touch of warmth and comfort.
Sock Puppets: Get crafty with old socks by turning them into adorable puppets. Add button eyes, felt features, and let the puppetry show begin!
Scarf Curtain Tiebacks: Use colorful scarves to tie back your curtains, adding a touch of elegance and a pop of color to your windows.
Quilted Patchwork Blanket: Combine fabric scraps from various clothes to create a patchwork quilt or blanket, making a sentimental and visually appealing piece.
Belt Wall Art: Hang old belts on the wall in a creative pattern to form an interesting and dynamic piece of wall art.
Old Shirt Pillowcases: Upcycle button-down shirts into unique pillowcases by sewing and repurposing the fabric. Mix and match for an eclectic look.
Jean Pocket Organizer: Cut and sew jean pockets onto a piece of fabric or canvas to create a stylish and functional organizer for small items.
Hat Rack from Hangers: Transform wire hangers into a hat rack by bending and reshaping them. Hang it on the wall for a space-saving storage solution.
Repurposed Drawer Liners: Use fabric from old clothes to line drawers or shelves, adding a personal touch and a splash of color to your storage spaces.
Wine Bag Gift Wrap: Turn long-sleeved shirts into wine gift bags. Tie the sleeves, add a ribbon, and voila—an eco-friendly and stylish wrapping solution.
Jean Planters: Cut off the legs of old jeans, sew up the bottom, fill them with soil, and use them as unique denim planters for small indoor plants.
DIY Rag Rug: Tear old clothes into strips and weave or crochet them into a colorful and textured rag rug, adding warmth and character to any room.
Upcycled Tea Towels: Convert old kitchen towels or clothes into reusable and stylish tea towels by hemming and adding decorative elements.
Graphic Tee Wall Art: Frame your favorite graphic tees as wall art. Cut out the graphic and mount it in a frame for a personalized and nostalgic decor piece.
These ideas not only breathe new life into old clothes but also add a personal and sustainable touch to your home decor. Let your creativity flow and turn your wardrobe castaways into household treasures!
Upcycling: Turning Old Clothes into Fashionable Gems
How do you make a homemade poncho?
My blanket is 60 x 50.
You’ll start by folding your blanket in half. If you have a square you could do this in a triangle shape and go for the poncho look.
On the fold side in the center, use your scissors to make a slit about 8-12 inches wide.
Slide your head into the hold and it’s ready to wear plus you have use of your hands.
Great for sporting events outside to go over jackets, gifts for loved ones, etc.!
More Upcycling Clothes Ideas:
Here’s a list of creative upcycling ideas along with brief descriptions for turning old clothes into fashionable gems:
Denim Shorts from Jeans: Give old jeans a new lease on life by transforming them into stylish shorts. Add distressing, frayed edges, or unique embellishments for a custom touch.
Sweater Mittens: Turn old sweaters into cozy mittens by cutting and sewing the fabric. Use the sweater’s existing cuffs for added warmth.
Button-Down Shirt Dress: Repurpose a men’s button-down shirt into a chic shirt dress. Adjust the length, cinch the waist with a belt, and showcase your fashion-forward style.
Patchwork Jeans: Combine denim scraps from various jeans to create patchwork jeans. This DIY project adds a boho and eclectic vibe to your wardrobe.
Tank Top Crop Top: Revamp an old tank top into a stylish crop top. Cut at the desired length, add fringe or tie-dye for a playful and trendy look.
Scarf Kimono: Transform a large scarf or shawl into a fashionable kimono. Simply fold, cut, and add some stitching for an elegant and versatile wardrobe addition.
Sweater Skirt: Convert an oversized sweater into a cozy and stylish skirt. Adjust the length, add a waistband, and pair it with tights for a winter-ready ensemble.
Belted Shirt Dress: Give a loose-fitting shirt a new silhouette by adding a belt to cinch the waist. This simple addition can transform the entire look and feel of the garment.
Lace-Trimmed Camisole: Add a touch of femininity to a plain camisole by sewing on lace trim. This quick and easy upcycling trick elevates a basic piece into a stylish one.
Hoodie Backpack: Upcycle an old hoodie into a functional backpack. Cut and sew strategically to utilize the existing features, such as the hood and pockets, for a unique and practical accessory.
Collar Necklace: Detach decorative collars from old blouses or shirts and repurpose them into trendy collar necklaces. Pair them with various outfits for an instant style upgrade.
Sweater Off-the-Shoulder Top: Transform an oversized sweater into an off-the-shoulder top. Cut along the neckline and style it for a cozy and fashionable statement piece.
These upcycling ideas not only reduce waste but also allow you to express your creativity and fashion sense through unique and personalized pieces. Happy upcycling!
You might also like my DIY Mermaid tail from a blanket.
3 Amazing, Inexpensive, and Easy Repurposed Clothing Ideas video
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What To Do With Old Clothes Q & A
There are several options for what to do with old clothes:
1. Donate: If the clothes are in good condition, consider donating them to a local charity or thrift store. This ensures that someone in need can benefit from your unwanted items. Places like Goodwill, ARC, Salvation Army, etc.
2. Repurpose: Get creative and repurpose your old clothes into something new. You can turn t-shirts into tote bags, jeans into shorts, or use fabric scraps for crafts or quilts. Let your imagination guide you!
3. Sell: If your clothes are in good condition and you want to make some extra money, consider selling them online through platforms like eBay, Depop, or Poshmark. Take clear photos, write accurate descriptions, and set a fair price.
4. Swap: Host a clothing swap with friends or participate in community swap events. This allows you to exchange clothes you no longer want for items that are new to you, all without spending any money.
5. Recycle: If your clothes are worn out or damaged, look for textile recycling programs in your area. These organizations repurpose or recycle old textiles to reduce waste and environmental impact.
Remember, the key is to avoid throwing old clothes into the trashand filling our landfills. By choosing one of these options, you can give your old clothes a new life, benefit others, or minimize their impact on the environment.
When it comes to decluttering clothes, a general rule of thumb is to follow the “one year rule.” If you haven’t worn an item of clothing in over a year, it’s likely time to let it go. This helps free up space in your closet and ensures that you only keep the clothes you actually wear and enjoy. Remember, decluttering is a great opportunity to donate or repurpose items, giving them a new life and reducing waste.
While donating is always a preferred option to reduce waste and help others in need, it’s important to acknowledge that not all items can be or should be donated. In some cases, it may be necessary to throw things away, especially if they are damaged, stained, or in poor condition. Items like undergarments, socks, and heavily worn-out clothing may not be suitable for donation. However, before throwing anything away, consider if it can be repurposed or recycled. Reusing items or recycling them helps minimize environmental impact. So while donating is ideal, responsible disposal is also important when necessary.
When deciding to get rid of clothes, it’s helpful to ask yourself a few key questions:
1. Have I worn this item in the past year? If the answer is no, it’s likely time to let it go.
2. Does this item still fit me properly? If it no longer fits or is uncomfortable to wear, it’s best to part ways with it.
3. Is the item damaged or in poor condition? If the clothing is beyond repair or has stains or holes that cannot be fixed, it may be time to say goodbye.
4. Does this item align with my current style or lifestyle? If your style has evolved or changed, keeping clothes that no longer reflect who you are may lead to wasted space and cluttered wardrobe.
5. Do I have multiples of the same item? If you have multiple similar pieces, consider keeping just your favorites and donating or selling the rest.
Remember, the goal is to keep clothes that you love and wear regularly. Letting go of unneeded or unused items not only clears space but also allows someone else to enjoy them through donations.
There are numerous creative ways to reuse unused clothes. Here are a few ideas:
1. Upcycling: Transform your unused clothes into new and fashionable items. You can turn t-shirts into tank tops, old jeans into shorts or a denim skirt, or even create stylish accessories like headbands or scrunchies.
2. DIY Projects: Utilize your unused clothes for various DIY projects. Use fabric scraps to create patchwork quilts, fabric flowers, or handmade toys. Cut out interesting patterns or designs from old clothing to make unique wall art or decorative banners.
3. Cleaning Rags: Cut up old t-shirts or towels into small squares to use as cleaning rags. They are perfect for dusting, wiping surfaces, or tackling messy tasks. This way, you avoid buying disposable cleaning wipes and reduce waste.
4. Donations: If your clothes are still in good condition but no longer suit your style or size, consider donating them to local charities, shelters, or clothing drives. This way, someone else can benefit from your unused clothes.
5. Swapping or Trading: Organize clothing swaps with friends, family, or neighbors. This allows everyone to exchange their unused clothes and find new items they love, all without spending money and reducing waste.
Remember, the key is to get creative and think outside the box when reusing unused clothes. By doing so, you not only give your clothes a new purpose but also contribute to sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
When faced with old, worn-out clothes, don’t toss them in the trash just yet! Instead, consider repurposing them in creative ways. One option is to turn them into colorful and cozy homemade hand warmers. Simply fill mittens or socks with rice, sew or glue them shut, and heat them in the microwave. These hand warmers also make for great gifts or even cold packs when placed in the freezer.
Another fantastic idea is transforming leggings into door draft stoppers. Cut off the top part of the leggings and fill the legs with rice, beans, or sand. Seal both ends and voila! You have a practical and efficient draft stopper for your doors or windowsills. For those in humid regions, consider using a plastic bag inside the leggings for extra protection.
Lastly, if you have a large blanket lying around, why not create a DIY poncho? Fold the blanket in half and make a slit in the center for your head to go through. This versatile poncho can be worn over jackets at outdoor events or given as a thoughtful gift.
So, next time you come across worn-out clothes, think twice before discarding them. With a little creativity, you can repurpose them into practical and unique items while reducing waste.
While it’s important to do our part in recycling clothes, not all types of clothing can be recycled. Here are a few examples of clothes that cannot be recycled:
1. Holey or heavily damaged clothing: Clothes with extensive tears, holes, or severe damage are typically not suitable for recycling. They may be better off being repurposed or donated for other purposes.
2. Severely stained garments: Clothing with stubborn stains that cannot be removed easily may not be accepted for recycling. It’s best to try and treat the stains before considering recycling.
3. Wet or moldy clothing: Wet or moldy clothes should not be included in recycling as they can contaminate the recycling process and cause further damage to other materials.
4. Clothing with non-recyclable materials: Some clothing items contain non-recyclable components, such as metal zippers, buttons, or embellishments. These items need to be removed before recycling or donated to organizations that can repurpose them.
Remember, it’s always essential to check the guidelines provided by your local recycling facility or organization to ensure that you recycle clothing properly and responsibly. If unsure, it’s often best to reach out to them directly for clarification.
If you need to get rid of unwanted clothes quickly, there are a few options you can consider:
1. Donate to charity: Look for local charitable organizations or thrift stores that accept clothing donations. Gather your unwanted clothes and drop them off at their designated collection points. This way, your clothes can benefit others in need.
2. Organize a clothing swap: Consider hosting a clothing swap event with family, friends, or neighbors. Everyone can bring their unwanted clothes and exchange them for items they want. It’s a fun way to refresh your wardrobe while promoting sustainability.
3. Sell online: Utilize online platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or Depop to sell your unwanted clothes. Take clear pictures, write accurate descriptions, and set fair prices. This option allows you to potentially make some money while decluttering.
4. Thrift store consignment: Some thrift stores offer consignment services where they sell your clothes on your behalf and share the proceeds with you. This option is convenient if you don’t have the time or inclination to sell items individually.
5. Clothing recycling programs: Look for clothing recycling programs in your area. Some organizations and retailers have initiatives that collect old clothes to be recycled into new products or reused in other industries.
Remember to wash and prepare your clothes appropriately before donating or selling them. It’s always a good idea to research and contact specific organizations or platforms to understand their requirements and processes for accepting unwanted clothes.
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What can you do with old clothes hangers?
I have several tutorials on what to do with old hangers that you might want to check out!
In our journey towards sustainable fashion, it’s crucial to acknowledge the environmental impact of the textile industry. Polyester, nylon, and other synthetic fabrics contribute significantly to textile waste and increase our carbon footprint. Fast fashion brands like Madewell often use these materials, but by opting for recycled clothes from companies like ThredUP, we can divert tons of textiles from landfills. Choosing natural fibers like cotton, hemp, and silk helps reduce the reliance on resource-intensive materials, as they decompose more easily, making them suitable for composting.
The choice of fabric not only affects our environment but also plays a role in supporting ethical practices. Companies like Patagonia and The North Face have embraced sustainable practices by incorporating recycled polyester and natural fibers (cotton, wool) into their products. By doing so, they contribute to the reduction of textile waste and promote the use of resources that have less environmental impact.
The impact of our choices extends beyond fabric selection to the entire lifecycle of clothing. When we discard items, they often end up in local thrift stores, providing an opportunity for others to extend the life of these garments. Alternatively, donating to animal shelters can give worn-out clothing a new purpose as bedding or insulation, offering both environmental and social benefits.
Moreover, the simple act of sewing can also be a powerful tool in the fight against textile waste. Whether it’s mending a pair of jeans or upcycling old T-shirts into reusable bags, a sewing machine becomes a vehicle for sustainability, allowing us to extend the lifespan of our garments and minimize our contribution to the fashion industry’s waste problem.
And let’s not forget about undergarments – bras and underwear often contain synthetic materials like spandex. However, there are brands embracing sustainability in intimate wear, using natural fibers and eco-friendly practices. Choosing underwear made from organic cotton or hemp reduces our environmental impact while keeping us comfortable.
In conclusion, our choices in clothing can make a substantial difference. From supporting brands like ThredUP that emphasize recycled fashion to opting for local thrift stores, utilizing a sewing machine for DIY projects, and choosing natural fibers, every decision we make contributes to a more sustainable and eco-conscious fashion industry.
Great ideas Chas. I love the cover-up! We keep our house cool so an extra cover-up is always handy to have around. 🙂
Thank you Linda! I originally made them with Halloween blankets I found on clearance for $1 and gave them to the kids for Halloween. We have used them so much so I thought I should share with everyone!
Oh my gosh, what a bargain and what a great idea. You continue to amaze me!
These are simple but effective ideas and I would never have thought of using mittens or leggings. Thanks for sharing with us at #BloggersPitStop and have a great week.
Thank you Sue