Making a cozy blanket from old shirts without sewing is a fun and easy project. This simple guide shows you how to create a soft fleece tie blanket from t-shirts or a memory blanket from shirts no sewing needed. You will learn the fabric tying technique for shirt blanket success. This DIY no sew shirt blanket is a great way to upcycle t-shirts into blanket no sew treasures. Get ready for a simple t-shirt blanket tutorial no sew!
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Why Make a Shirt Blanket Without Sewing?
People make these blankets for many good reasons.
One big reason is to keep memories. Old shirts hold special times. They remind you of sports games, concerts, or trips. Making a memory blanket from shirts no sewing lets you keep these memories close.
Another reason is to reuse old things. This project helps you upcycle t-shirts into blanket no sew instead of throwing them away. It is good for the planet.
Also, this project is easy. You do not need a sewing machine or needle and thread. Anyone can do it. It is a perfect no sew t-shirt quilt instructions project.
Things You Need
Gathering your supplies is the first step. You need just a few things.
Here is what you will need:
- Old t-shirts: Choose shirts that mean something to you. Make sure they are clean.
- Fleece fabric: This will be the back of your blanket. Pick a color or pattern you like. Make sure it is big enough for the size blanket you want.
- Sharp fabric scissors: Good scissors make cutting easier.
- A ruler or measuring tape: To help you measure the fabric.
- A rotary cutter and cutting mat (optional): These can make cutting faster and more exact, especially for cutting t-shirts for tie blanket.
- Cardboard or template (optional): For making sure your fringe cuts are the same size.
- Fabric marker or chalk (optional): To mark your cuts.
Choosing Your Materials
Picking the right shirts and fleece matters.
For shirts, any t-shirt fabric works. Cotton or cotton blend shirts are common. You will cut out squares or rectangles from the shirts. The design on the shirt is what you want to keep. Make sure the designs fit inside the pieces you cut. You will need many shirts. The number depends on the size of your blanket.
For fleece, anti-pill fleece is a good choice. It stays soft and does not get little balls of fabric on it. Fleece is warm and soft. It is perfect for the back of a fleece tie blanket from t-shirts. Buy fleece that is about the same size as your planned blanket. You will trim it later.
Picking Your Blanket Size
How big do you want your blanket? This choice helps you know how much fabric you need.
Here are some common sizes:
- Lapghan (small): About 40 x 50 inches. Good for one person on a couch.
- Throw (medium): About 50 x 60 inches. Good for one or two people.
- Twin bed size (large): About 60 x 90 inches. Covers a twin bed.
You will need many shirt squares for a bigger blanket.
Let’s say you want a throw size blanket, about 50×60 inches.
If you cut shirt squares that are 10×10 inches, you would need about 5 rows and 6 columns of squares. That is 30 squares.
Each shirt might give you one or two good squares, depending on the size of the design. So, you might need 15 to 30 shirts for a throw blanket.
This is just an example. You can make your squares any size you like. Just remember they will shrink a bit when you tie the fringes.
Readying the Shirts: Cutting the Pieces
This step is about getting your shirts ready. You need to cut out the parts you want to use.
Most people cut squares or rectangles.
Lay a shirt flat. Smooth it out.
Find the design or picture you want to save.
Decide what size square or rectangle you want. A common size is 12 inches by 12 inches.
You will cut the same size pieces from all shirts.
Use your ruler and fabric marker. Draw a square or rectangle around the design on the shirt. Make sure the design is centered if you like.
Use your sharp scissors or rotary cutter. Carefully cut along the lines you drew.
Cut only the top layer of the shirt for now. Or cut through both layers if the design goes through. You will end up with shirt squares.
Keep cutting pieces from all your shirts. Try to make them all the same size. This makes the next steps easier.
Put your cut shirt pieces in a pile.
Readying the Fleece Backing
Now, prepare the fleece.
Lay your fleece fabric flat on a large surface. Smooth it out.
Place your cut shirt pieces on top of the fleece. Arrange them in the pattern you want for your blanket. This helps you see how big the blanket will be.
Leave a space of about 1 to 2 inches between the shirt pieces. This space is where you will cut the fringes later.
Once you like the layout, measure the total size of the area covered by shirts plus the spaces between them.
Cut the fleece so it is a few inches bigger on all sides than your total shirt layout. This gives you extra room.
For example, if your shirt layout with spaces is 50×60 inches, cut your fleece to be about 54×64 inches.
Layering the Fabrics
Now it is time to put the layers together.
Lay the fleece piece flat on the floor or a big table. This is the bottom layer.
Next, place your cut shirt pieces on top of the fleece.
Arrange them again just like you planned.
Place the shirt pieces edge to edge. Do not leave space between them right now. The space you left when cutting the fleece will be used for the fringes around the shirt pieces.
Make sure the shirt pieces cover the fleece well, leaving a border of fleece sticking out all around the edges of the combined shirt squares. This border is where the fringes will be cut.
Cutting the Fringes
This is a key step for your easy no sew t-shirt blanket. You will cut strips around the edges.
You need to cut fringes around the entire outer edge of the combined shirt and fleece layers. You also need to cut fringes where the shirt squares meet each other.
Let’s start with the outer edge.
You have the fleece on the bottom and the shirt pieces on top, forming a large rectangle or square. The fleece sticks out past the shirt pieces.
Measure in about 4 inches from the outer edge of the fleece. This is how deep your fringes will be. Mark this line on the fleece with chalk or a marker, or use a ruler as a guide.
Now, cut strips from the outer edge of the fleece up to this 4-inch line.
Make the strips about 1 inch wide.
Cut through both the fleece and the shirt layers that are under the fringe area. Where there is no shirt layer, just cut the fleece.
Keep your cuts even. Use your ruler or a template. A piece of cardboard cut to 1 inch wide and 4 inches long works well as a template.
Go all around the outside edge of the whole blanket. Cut fringes about 1 inch wide and 4 inches deep.
Next, cut fringes between the shirt squares.
Where one shirt square meets the next, you need to cut fringes.
Remember the 1-2 inch space you left between shirts when planning the layout? This space is now where you cut.
Cut strips about 1 inch wide and about 4 inches deep into this space. Cut through both the shirt layer and the fleece layer below it.
Do this along all the lines where shirt squares meet, both across and down.
You will have a grid of shirt squares with fringes sticking out around each one.
Fabric Tying Technique for Shirt Blanket
This is where your blanket comes together without sewing. You will tie knots with the fringes.
You have pairs of fringes: one from the shirt layer and one from the fleece layer right below it. These pairs are about 1 inch wide.
Take one pair of fringes. The fringe from the shirt and the fringe from the fleece.
Tie these two strips together in a knot. A simple double knot works best to hold tight.
Tie the knots close to the edge of the shirt piece (or where the shirt piece ends in the fringe area).
Tie every pair of fringes all around the edges of the blanket and between all the shirt squares.
This is the fabric tying technique for shirt blanket making. It creates a strong connection between the shirt pieces and the fleece backing. It also makes the edges look nice and finished.
It takes some time to tie all the knots. You can sit and tie while watching TV or listening to music.
Make sure the knots are firm but not pulled too tight. If you pull too hard, the fabric might tear.
No Sew T-Shirt Quilt Instructions: Step-by-Step Summary
Let’s put the steps together for a clear guide. This is your no sew t-shirt quilt instructions list.
- Gather Your Supplies: Get your shirts, fleece, scissors, ruler, etc.
- Choose Your Blanket Size: Decide how big you want the blanket to be.
- Prepare the Shirts: Cut squares or rectangles from the shirts, making them all the same size. Cut out the parts with designs you want.
- Prepare the Fleece: Cut the fleece slightly larger than your planned shirt layout.
- Layer the Fabrics: Lay the fleece flat. Arrange the shirt pieces on top, edge to edge, leaving a border of fleece around them.
- Cut the Fringes: Cut 1-inch wide strips about 4 inches deep around the outside edge and between all the shirt squares. Cut through both layers.
- Tie the Knots: Take one fringe strip from the shirt layer and the matching strip from the fleece layer. Tie them together in a double knot. Do this for all pairs of fringes.
Following these steps lets you make a fleece tie blanket from t-shirts easily. It is a great t-shirt blanket tutorial no sew project.
Tips for a Great No Sew Blanket
Here are some tips to help you make the best memory blanket from shirts no sewing.
- Use sharp scissors: Dull scissors make cutting hard and uneven.
- Cut fringes evenly: Try to make your fringe strips the same width and length. This makes the finished edge look nicer. A template helps a lot here.
- Tie knots consistently: Tie all your knots the same way and with the same tightness.
- Use enough shirts: Do not run out of shirts before your blanket is the size you want. It is better to have too many than too few.
- Wash shirts first: Wash and dry your old shirts before cutting them. This helps prevent shrinking later.
- Wash fleece first: Wash and dry your fleece too. Fleece can shrink.
- Consider shirt fabric: Some shirt fabrics stretch more than others. This is okay, but try to match similar fabrics if you can.
- Add batting (optional): For extra warmth, you can add a layer of thin batting between the shirt layer and the fleece layer before cutting and tying. Just make sure the batting is included in the fringe cuts and ties. This makes the blanket warmer but adds a bit more work.
Making a Memory Blanket from Shirts No Sewing
Using old shirts makes this more than just a blanket. It becomes a memory keeper.
You can use shirts from different times in your life.
Maybe shirts from your child’s school days. Or shirts from family trips. Shirts from favorite sports teams or bands.
Each square can bring back a special feeling or story.
When you decide which shirts to use, think about the memories tied to them.
Cutting and tying the blanket can be a time to think about those memories.
This memory blanket from shirts no sewing is a warm way to hold onto the past. It makes your DIY no sew shirt blanket even more special.
Cutting T-Shirts for Tie Blanket: More Details
Getting the shirt pieces right is important.
First, wash and dry your shirts.
Lay a shirt flat. Smooth out wrinkles.
Decide what part of the shirt you want to use. Often, it is the front with a logo or picture.
Decide the size of your squares or rectangles. Let’s say 12×12 inches.
If the design is smaller, you might cut a smaller square. Just make sure all squares in one blanket are the same size for the easiest tying.
Use a ruler and fabric marker. Mark a 12×12 inch square around the design.
Try to center the design in the square.
Cut through only the front layer of the shirt if the design is only on the front.
If the design goes through both layers, you can cut through both layers at once. This gives you two identical squares from one part of the shirt.
Cut carefully along your lines.
Repeat for all shirts. Stack your cut pieces neatly.
Do not use the ribbed neck part or the bottom hem if they are too thick or uneven. Stick to the flat parts of the shirt.
If a shirt has a small design, you can cut a smaller square. If you have different size squares, you will need to plan your layout carefully and maybe adjust fringe spacing, but sticking to one size is much easier for a first-time project.
This careful cutting t-shirts for tie blanket step makes the rest of the process smoother.
The Fabric Tying Technique for Shirt Blanket: Different Knots
The basic double knot is simple and strong. But you can try other ways to tie the fringes too. This is part of the fabric tying technique for shirt blanket.
* Basic Double Knot: Take the top fringe strip and the bottom fringe strip. Tie a knot. Then tie another knot right on top of the first one. Pull snug, but not too tight.
* Loop Knot: Make a loop with both fringe strips together. Pull the ends through the loop. This creates a quick loop knot. It might not be as secure as a double knot, so double knot is usually recommended.
* Braided Edge (More advanced): This is not just tying pairs. It involves braiding groups of fringes together. It takes more time and skill. For an easy no sew t-shirt blanket, stick to simple knots.
The most common and easiest method for a fleece tie blanket from t-shirts is the basic double knot. It makes a nice, full edge.
Planning Your Layout
Before you cut fringes, lay out your cut shirt pieces on the fleece.
Think about the pattern.
Do you want a checkerboard look? Mix colors and designs.
Do you want to group certain shirts together? Maybe all the blue shirts in one area.
Do you want the biggest designs in the center?
Play around with the layout.
Once you like it, make sure there is fleece border all around the outside.
This is also when you see if you have enough shirt squares. If not, you need to cut more from other shirts.
This planning step is like designing your no sew t-shirt quilt instructions map.
Adding Batting for Extra Warmth (Optional)
If you want a really warm blanket, you can add batting. Batting is the soft fluffy stuff used inside quilts.
Buy a thin quilt batting. Make sure it is the same size as your fleece backing or a little smaller.
Wash and dry it if the package says to.
When you layer your fabrics, put the fleece down first. Then lay the batting on top of the fleece. Then place your shirt squares on top of the batting.
When you cut the fringes, make sure you cut through all three layers: shirt, batting, and fleece.
When you tie the knots, grab one fringe from the shirt, one from the batting, and one from the fleece. Tie all three together.
Adding batting makes the tying a little thicker, but it adds a lot of warmth to your fleece tie blanket from t-shirts.
Finishing Touches
After all the knots are tied, your blanket is almost done!
Look over all the knots. Make sure none were missed. Make sure they are tied well.
Trim any long or uneven fringe ends if you want a neater look.
Give your blanket a gentle shake.
Your easy no sew t-shirt blanket is ready to use.
You have finished your t-shirt blanket tutorial no sew project!
How to Care for Your No Sew Shirt Blanket
Taking care of your new blanket is easy.
Wash it in a washing machine on a gentle cycle. Use cool or warm water.
You can dry it in a dryer on a low heat setting. Or lay it flat to dry.
The knots might get a little tighter or more matted after washing. This is normal.
Over time, some knots might loosen. Just tie them again.
Your memory blanket from shirts no sewing will get softer with each wash.
Benefits of This No Sewing Method
Why choose the fabric tying technique for shirt blanket making over sewing?
* It’s Fast: Much faster than cutting out small pieces and sewing them together like a traditional quilt.
* It’s Easy: No special skills or equipment like a sewing machine are needed. Anyone can tie a knot!
* It Saves Time: Cutting large squares and tying fringes is quicker than piecing and quilting.
* It’s For Everyone: Kids and adults can help with this project. Tying knots is a fun task for little hands (with supervision).
* It’s Budget-Friendly: You use old shirts you already own and just need fleece and scissors.
* It’s forgiving: Small mistakes in cutting aren’t very noticeable in the tied fringes.
This DIY no sew shirt blanket method makes creating a warm, personal blanket very simple.
Exploring More About Upcycling Shirts
This project is a great example of upcycling. Upcycling means taking old items and making them into something new and often better.
Instead of the shirts sitting in a drawer or going to waste, they become a useful and loved blanket.
Upcycle t-shirts into blanket no sew is just one idea. You can also make pillow covers, tote bags, or even rugs from old shirts.
This project gives old clothes a new life and keeps memories alive.
Comparing Sizes and Materials
Let’s look at how much fabric you might need for different sizes. This helps when you are getting started.
| Blanket Size | Approx. Finished Size | Approx. Number of 12×12 inch Shirt Squares Needed | Fleece Size Needed (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lapghan | 40 x 50 inches | 12 – 15 squares (if 4×3 or 5×3 layout) | 48 x 58 inches |
| Throw | 50 x 60 inches | 20 – 25 squares (if 5×4 or 5×5 layout) | 58 x 68 inches |
| Twin | 60 x 90 inches | 30 – 45 squares (if 6×5 or 6×7.5 layout) | 68 x 98 inches |
Note: These are estimates. The number of squares depends on the square size you cut and the exact layout. Always get a little extra fleece.
Remember, you might get one or two usable squares from each shirt, depending on the design size and where it is placed on the shirt.
The Joy of Creating
Making this blanket is a rewarding process. From sorting through old shirts and remembering the stories behind them, to the simple, repetitive motion of tying knots, it is a project you can enjoy.
Finishing the last knot and wrapping yourself in your new, soft, memory-filled blanket is a great feeling.
You made something beautiful and useful with your own hands, without needing any special skills or tools. You followed the easy how to make a shirt blanket without sewing steps and made something great.
Troubleshooting Common Questions
Sometimes things might not go exactly as planned. Here are some common questions people have.
- My fringes are uneven: It happens! The tied knots hide small differences. If some are much longer, you can trim them after tying. Try using a template for cutting on your next project.
- My knots are coming undone: Make sure you are tying a double knot and pulling it snug. Some fabrics might be slippery. If many knots come undone, you can try a small dab of fabric glue on the knot, but usually a tight double knot is enough.
- The blanket isn’t lying flat: This can happen if some knots are pulled too tight. Try to tie all knots with similar tension. Washing the blanket can sometimes help relax the fabric.
- I ran out of shirts: Go find more! Ask family or friends if they have old shirts they want to get rid of. You can also visit thrift stores to find shirts with cool designs.
- The shirt fabric rolls up: Some knit fabrics roll at the edges after cutting. This is normal. Just flatten them as best you can when you tie the knots. The knots will hold them in place.
This easy no sew t-shirt blanket project is forgiving. Don’t worry about perfection. The handmade look is part of its charm.
The Tie Knot Blanket From Shirts
This method creates what is often called a tie knot blanket from shirts. The tied fringes form the edges and hold the layers together.
It’s a simple, effective method. The knots are decorative and functional.
When you are learning how to make a tie knot blanket from shirts, the tying step is the main event. It takes the most time but requires no special skill, just patience.
The result is a sturdy blanket that will last for years.
Fabric Tying Technique for Shirt Blanket: Why it Works
The fabric tying technique works because it uses the strength of the fabric itself. By cutting fringes, you create strips that can be knotted together.
When you tie the shirt fringe to the fleece fringe, you are physically connecting the two layers.
Repeating this connection over the entire blanket area, both around the edges and between the shirt squares, creates a secure and durable bond.
The knots prevent the fabric layers from separating.
This method has been used for a long time to make blankets without sewing, especially with fleece. Adding t-shirts to the mix lets you make it personal and use old clothes.
Upcycle T-Shirts Into Blanket No Sew: Environmental Benefits
Choosing to upcycle t-shirts into blanket no sew is good for the environment.
Textile waste is a big problem. Clothes we no longer want often end up in landfills.
By turning old shirts into a blanket, you keep them out of the trash.
You also avoid buying new fabric for the top layer of a blanket, which saves resources.
This DIY no sew shirt blanket project is a small step but part of a larger idea of reusing and reducing waste.
T-Shirt Blanket Tutorial No Sew: Getting Started
Feeling ready to start your t-shirt blanket tutorial no sew project?
Gather your shirts. Go through your closets or ask family members. Find shirts with designs you love.
Wash them all.
Decide on your size.
Buy your fleece. Make sure you get enough.
Get your sharp scissors ready.
Find a big clear space to work, like a floor or large table.
Put on some music or a show, and start cutting!
It’s a simple process, and the results are worth it.
Final Thoughts
Creating a shirt blanket without sewing is a rewarding craft. It is simple, personal, and earth-friendly.
Whether you call it a fleece tie blanket from t-shirts, a memory blanket from shirts no sewing, or just a DIY no sew shirt blanket, the process is the same.
You cut, you tie, and you create a cozy treasure.
The no sew t-shirt quilt instructions are easy to follow. Cutting t-shirts for tie blanket is simple once you get going. The fabric tying technique for shirt blanket is just tying knots.
This easy no sew t-shirt blanket project is perfect for beginners. It is a way to save memories, reuse clothes, and make something warm and useful.
Enjoy making your blanket!
Frequently Asked Questions
h4: What kind of shirts work best?
Most cotton or cotton blend t-shirts work well. Avoid shirts that are very thin, very stretchy, or have bumpy designs like heavy glitter glue or thick screen prints that might be uncomfortable.
h4: How many shirts do I really need?
It truly depends on the size of your blanket and the size of the squares you cut. For a medium throw (about 50×60 inches) using 10×10 or 12×12 inch squares, you might need anywhere from 15 to 30 shirts to get enough good sections. It is always better to have too many than too few.
h4: Can I use fabrics other than fleece for the back?
Fleece is popular because it is soft, warm, and does not fray, which is great for no-sew edges. You could try other knit fabrics that do not fray much, but fleece is the easiest and most common choice for this tie method.
h4: Does the shirt fabric need to be the same as the fleece?
No, the shirt fabric will likely be thinner than the fleece. This is fine. The method works by tying the different fabrics together. The different textures add to the look.
h4: Can I mix different size shirt squares?
For your first blanket, it is easiest to use all the same size squares. If you want to mix sizes, you need to plan the layout carefully and the fringe cutting/tying will be more complex as the spaces between squares will vary. It is best to stick to one size for this easy no sew method.
h4: How long does it take to make one blanket?
Cutting the squares and fleece might take a few hours. The tying takes the longest. Depending on the size of the blanket and how fast you tie, this could take several hours or even days if you work on it a little at a time. A throw size blanket might take 6-10 hours total.
h4: Can I use shirts with different designs?
Yes! That is the point of a memory blanket. Mix and match designs, colors, and patterns. It makes the blanket unique and full of memories.
h4: My hands hurt from tying knots. Any tips?
Tying many knots can make your fingers tired. Take breaks often. Some people use gloves to help with grip, but usually, just resting your hands is enough.
h4: Will the knots come undone in the wash?
If you tie a secure double knot, they should stay tied. The fabric might change a bit, making the knots tighter or looser, but they should not untie completely. If one does, just tie it again.