Introduction: Recycled T-shirt Bracelet
This is an extension of my Recycled T-shirt Necklace tutorial. It is much more in-depth than my first one. There are lots of steps to show the process, but it is really easy to do once you know. A bracelet (or necklace) can be made in just a couple of minutes.
What you need:
- The sleeve of a soft, clean cotton t-shirt
- A ruler
- A cutting tool (the best results come if you use a rotary cutter* with a self healing mat but you can also use plain old scissors)
*If you are using a rotary cutter for the first time, be careful! The Purl Bee has an excellent tutorial for how to properly and safely use a rotary cutter HERE.
What you need:
- The sleeve of a soft, clean cotton t-shirt
- A ruler
- A cutting tool (the best results come if you use a rotary cutter* with a self healing mat but you can also use plain old scissors)
*If you are using a rotary cutter for the first time, be careful! The Purl Bee has an excellent tutorial for how to properly and safely use a rotary cutter HERE.
Step 1: Lay Shirt Out
Lay the shirt sleeve out on a flat surface.
Step 2: Cut Hem
Using scissors or your rotary cutter, slice off the hem. Discard.
Step 3: Cut the Strips
From the hem edge, measure up 3/4" and cut straight across sleeve. Continue up the sleeve until you reach the seam.
For a thick bracelet, cut up both sleeves. You can also use sleeves of an alternating color to mix in.
For a thick bracelet, cut up both sleeves. You can also use sleeves of an alternating color to mix in.
Step 4: Examine a Strip
Here is a single strip of fabric from the sleeve.
Step 5: Pull Strips Open
You'll notice that each strip is a loop of fabric.
Step 6: Stretch the Strips Out
As you stretch each strip out, it will automatically start to furl into itself, as seen in the picture.
Step 7: Here It Is Stretched
Here is one strip stretched out. It won't curl where the seam is, but don't worry about it.
Step 8: Line Up the Seams
Now put all your loops together. I am only using two as an example, but you will probably have more. Make sure the seams line up as shown.
Step 9: Cover the Seams
Using a scrap piece of the same fabric, loop around the seams to cover them.
Step 10: Tuck the End In
Tuck the end of the scrap under the loops. I have mine sticking out a little to show you, but you can cover it completely.
Step 11: Done!
Now you can loop it around once or twice to wear as a bracelet.