Upcycling | How to Turn an Old T-Shirt into a Pair of Underwear
If you’re looking for a sustainable and creative way to upcycle your old shirts, why not transform them into a pair of underwear? Not only is this a fun DIY project, but it also gives a new life to fabric that might otherwise end up in the landfill. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about wearing something you made with your own hands. Let’s dive into the process!
Materials You’ll Need:
An old t-shirt (preferably one that’s soft and stretchy)
Scissors
Needle and thread (or a sewing machine if you have one)
Elastic (optional, for the waistband and leg openings)
a pair of your favorite underwear to use as a template
Pins
Step 1: Choose the Right T-Shirt
First things first—pick out an old t-shirt that’s ready for a new purpose. Look for one made of cotton jersey or any fabric with a bit of stretch. The stretchiness is key for comfort and fit.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pattern
Simply fold a pair of your favorite underwear in half, and use it as a guide/template. Place the underwear template on the t-shirt, making sure the stretch of the fabric aligns horizontally. This will ensure your new underwear has the right amount of give when you wear it.
Step 3: Cut Out the Fabric
Now comes the fun part—cutting! Carefully cut around the pattern or template, leaving about a ¼ inch (0.6 cm) seam allowance, (the distance from the underwear edges that you will cut). You should end up with three main pieces: the front, back, and a small crotch lining.
Step 4: Sew the Pieces Together
With your pieces cut out, it’s time to start sewing. Place the front and back pieces together, with the right sides facing each other. Sew the side seams and the crotch seam. If you’re using a sewing machine, opt for a zigzag stitch to maintain the fabric’s stretchiness. Next, attach the crotch lining by sewing it over the crotch seam, making sure it’s smooth and comfortable.
Step 5: Attach the Elastic (Optional)
For a snug fit, measure and cut elastic for the waistband and leg openings. Sew the elastic to the edges, gently stretching it as you sew. This creates a gathered effect and ensures the fabric will stay in place when worn. Fold the elastic over and topstitch to encase it, giving your underwear a polished, professional finish.
Step 6: Finish the Edges
If you’re not a fan of elastic, you can simply hem the edges. Fold the edges over twice and sew with a zigzag stitch to secure them. This creates a clean, simple finish that’s both comfortable and stylish.
Step 7: Try On and Adjust
The moment of truth—try on your newly crafted underwear! Check the fit and make any necessary adjustments to the seams or elastic. If something feels off, a quick tweak with your needle and thread should do the trick.
Tips for Customization:
Use the t-shirt’s hem: If you want to skip sewing the waistband, use the existing hem of the t-shirt as your waistband.
Mix and match fabrics: Feeling adventurous? Combine fabrics from different t-shirts for a unique, patchwork look.
By turning an old t-shirt into a pair of underwear, you’re not just making something new—you’re practicing sustainability, reducing waste, and honing your sewing skills. So dig through your closet, grab a t-shirt that’s seen better days, and give this project a try. You might just end up with your new favorite pair of underwear!