At Bonfire, we are thrilled to help thousands of people create and sell t-shirts that raise funds for various organizations and causes. But what happens to all of those t-shirts after they’ve been worn out?
We care about the journey of our t-shirts, from design to production and beyond. In fact, we launched Bonfire in 2012 to eliminate the waste traditionally associated with t-shirt fundraising. By following a preordering model, recycling ink waste, using 100% recycled shipping bags, and more, we prioritize sustainability every step of the way.
In this guide, we’ll cover ideas for upcycling or recycling old t-shirts, helping you and your donors give them a second life outside of the landfill.
Key Takeaways
- Repurpose worn-out tees into functional household items, new clothing items, or dog toys using DIY methods.
- Work with companies offering textile recycling programs to responsibly dispose of unwearable shirts while earning store credit.
- Extend the life of gently used apparel by donating it to local thrift stores, community centers, or homeless shelters.
How to Upcycle Your Old T-Shirts
Looking for a new use for your well-worn, well-loved t-shirts? We have great news for you: there are practically endless possibilities for what you can create using your old tees! Check out a few of our favorite ideas for upcycling tees:
Make an Upcycled T-Shirt Rug, Basket, or Bowl
If you have many old t-shirts to work with, you can cut them into strips, braid them together, and sew them into eclectic-looking baskets, bowls, or rugs! These colorful storage and decor options can be used anywhere in your home to brighten up your space.
Create Stylish T-Shirt Headbands
T-shirt material works great for headbands because it’s soft and stretchy. It’s also super easy to work with and doesn’t fray too easily. You can cut up your shirts and sew the material into a thick, simple band or create a more intricate braided style. Check out these tutorials to learn how to make a couple of super cute headband styles!
Images from She Knows and Craftsy Hacks
Make Plant Hangers
Did you know you can make a macrame-style plant hanger from your old tees in less than 30 minutes? Cut t-shirts into long strips of fabric. Then, knot them together to create a plant hanger. Once you’re done, you can hang your plant from the ceiling to display your work. Sounds like the perfect activity for a night in with friends!
Image from A Beautiful Mess and Brit + Co
Transform T-Shirts into Workout Shirts
In just a few easy steps, you can turn your old tees into racerback workout tank tops! No sewing or gluing is necessary. Instead, you just need to strategically cut the collar and sleeves, then use a creative knot-tying method for the back of the shirt. You’ll be ready to exercise and ready to sweat in your “new” tank top in no time!
Image from Rabbit Food for My Bunny Teeth
Turn T-Shirts into Dog Toys
Your furry friend will definitely appreciate you turning old tees into toys for them to play with! You’ll have a brand new collection of eco-friendly dog toys without having to spend a dime. Typically, you’ll use thick strips of fabric and tie them into durable knots or braids that can withstand chewing and playtime. Try out these different t-shirt dog toy ideas and see which ones your dog likes best!
Images from Sew Historically and Better Homes & Gardens
Sew Patchwork T-Shirt Pillows
We’ve all seen the standard t-shirt quilt blankets and pillows that have been around for a while now, but what’s stopping you from creating your very own t-shirt quilt fabric that is fresh and new? Making a randomized patchwork pattern will ensure a gorgeous, modern look that no one will suspect is made from your old t-shirts.
Images from @mindful_mending and Book by Lily Fulop
Repurpose Shirts into Cleaning Rags
Tired of spending money on paper towels or expensive cleaning cloths? An old t-shirt is a great way to save some cash and cut down on paper products. Cut the shirt into whatever size you prefer, then use your new cleaning cloths to dust, shine, and clean up spills. The best part? You can wash the shirt and use it again and again!
Image from Kalyn Brooke
Make a T-Shirt Bag
If you have scissors and an old t-shirt, you can easily turn one of your retired tees into a reusable shopping bag or a produce bag – a great addition for a stop at your local farmer’s market! If you’re looking to turn your shirt into a produce bag, we recommend cutting small holes into the fabric to help the produce stay fresh during travel.
Create Fun T-Shirt Wall Art
Looking to refresh your space with a cool piece of art? An old tee can be easily repurposed into a piece of artwork! If you have multiple old tees, cut them to fit into a frame and create a unique block of art for your walls.
Image from Fox17 West Michigan
Make Aprons From Your T-Shirts
If you’re skilled in the kitchen, consider turning your old tee into a fun apron! It’ll protect your outfit from any messes and givesa fun new purpose to an old tee. Typically, this project just requires some creative cuts and minimal sewing.
Images from Saw Dust Girl
Convert Them Into Warm Boot Socks
If you have an old long-sleeve tee, you can easily cut the sleeves to create stylish, warm, and fun boot socks! Simply trim off the sleeves, put them on like socks, and pull them high enough to peek out of the top of your boots. This is perfect for the chillier weather and will keep your feet and legs comfortable for all your fall and winter adventures.
How to Recycle Your Old T-Shirts: 3 Organizations to Try
In an effort to reduce textile waste sent to landfills, many companies have launched textile recycling programs. These programs allow you to send your unwanted clothing to the company, which then responsibly recycles it.
Many of these companies also offer store credit or discounts to encourage recycling. To help you take advantage of these services, here are a few companies with textile recycling programs:
For Days
For Days is a closed-loop fashion brand that offers organic, zero-waste, and 100% recyclable clothing. On their site, you can order a Take Back Bag to send them your old clothes from any brand, in any condition (as long as they are washed and don’t include undergarments). For each bag, you will receive a $30 credit. Like For Days says, it’s “a win for you, a win for the planet.”
Images from For Days
Marine Layer’s Re-Spun
Marine Layer is an eco-conscious clothing company that offers a t-shirt recycling program called Re-Spun. Through the Re-Spun page on Marine Layers’ website, you can purchase a prepaid mailer, fill it with up to 15 pounds of your old tees, and receive a $40 credit per bag.
Image from Marine Layer
Donate to Local Thrift Stores or Nonprofits
Consider donating your tees to your local Goodwill or other thrift stores so they can find new owners who will wear or repurpose them. You can also look up Planet Aid donation bins in your area and do a drop-off donation.
Often, churches, homeless shelters, and community outreach centers accept clothing donations, too. Be sure to call ahead or check online to find out which organizations are currently accepting donations and how to donate. You might be done using your old t-shirts, but there are people out there who would benefit from having them.
Wrapping Up
By repurposing your old t-shirts, you’ll stretch your creative muscles, save money, and reduce textile waste that ends up in landfills! Use this list of DIY ideas to help you to transform your unwanted items into something new and inspire more unique ideas.
Doing your part to help our planet is key, and our team at Bonfire wants to thank you for taking the time to do so. If you’re looking to spread awareness for a cause, fundraise, or simply create and sell your own custom merchandise, look no further than our print-on-demand services. Get started today—and check out our line of eco-friendly products!
For more tips on launching successful custom merch campaigns, check out these additional resources:
- From Concept to Cash: How to Create Your Own Merchandise. Learn how to create polished custom merch your audience will want to buy and wear with this step-by-step guide.
- Can Nonprofits Sell Products? Here Is Everything You Need to Know. Want to sell merch as a nonprofit? Read this guide first to learn how to do it and keep your tax-exempt status.
- 17 Fundraising Products You Should Be Selling in 2026. If you’ve decided to fundraise by selling merch, the ideas can feel endless and overwhelming. Our guide narrows down the top products to consider.
