How to Make Collage Style T-shirt Quilts
In this video, I share my process that I use to create Collage Style T-shirt Memory Quilts from t-shirts, jerseys, hats, ties, and other clothing items. This process is very easy. The only difficult part is keeping the measurements on a notepad and making sure to include the seam allowance EVERY time. I hope you enjoy, like, and subscribe.
This is a coordinating blog post that outlines the transcript in our video How to Make Easy T-shirt Quilts in the Collage Style Technique. This is a DIY on how to make this easy style t-shirt quilt. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the video. You can watch the full length video below. To download any free design patterns available for this video go to the downloads section below.
Video Description Details
In This Video You Will Learn
How to create a collage style T-shirt Memory Quilt
How to measure and lay out T-shirts (and other fiber items) to make a unique, one of a kind memory quilt
Materials Needed
T-shirts or any other material items that you would like to preserve into your final quilt. Use your imagination here, this can be virtually any fiber based object.
Iron on, light weight interfacing, such as SF 101. Woven interfacing is better, but non-woven (P44) will work, too
Batting for final quilt size
Coordinating backing fabric for final quilt size
Thread for piecing and for quilting the quilt
Fabric for your preferred binding method
Fabric Cut Measurements (inches)
This is a piece as you go type of quilt, so no set measurements are required
Pattern and Design Downloads
This tutorial doesn’t have any related download materials to go along with it, you are good to go. If additional resources become available we will add them here for you later.
Video Chapters
Deborah's Introduction: 0:04
Layouts and Types of T-shirt Quilts: 0:08
Cutting Shirts Down: 1:08
Sorting Logos: 3:29
The Maths: 5:00
Beginning Assembly: 6:20
More Maths: 7:30
Finished Top: 20:47
Products in this Video I Find Most Useful
Omnigrid 16.5" square ruler (this is the newer version of the 15" square ruler that I show in the video: https://amzn.to/3RO0qsI
Omnigrip 20.5" square ruler in the video: https://amzn.to/3jRhRMI
Pellon Interfacing - P44: https://amzn.to/3jGFesk
Iron - https://amzn.to/3sF4xJG
Creative Grids 8.5 x 24.5 Ruler - https://amzn.to/2Pb7Fiy
Rotary Cutter - https://amzn.to/3awr4SI
Snips - https://amzn.to/3cGf6rr
1/8” Double Sided Tape - https://amzn.to/3MeU0BB
½” Double Sided Tape - https://amzn.to/3Q8P2Hv
Hump Jumper - https://amzn.to/3SM9vok
#3 Nylon Zippers - https://amzn.to/3w7Ws7u
Sewing clips - https://amzn.to/486frwY
Rotary Cutting Mat - https://amzn.to/3QgLAL6
Rotary Cutter (18 mm) - https://amzn.to/3FHE2fs
Sewing machine - Juki TL2010-Q - https://amzn.to/3t1LGi9
Sites Related to this Video
My Website: http://deborahfillmer.com/
Scott’s Photography: https://scottfillmer.com/
Company Page: https://piecesofthepast.com/
Company Etsy Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/piecesofthepastAL
Company FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/piecesofthepastal
Scrap Quilting FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/308599672989747
Transcript
Crafting Memories: How to Make a Unique T-Shirt Quilt
Are you looking for a creative way to preserve your favorite t-shirts? If so, then making a t-shirt memory quilt might be the perfect project for you. In this tutorial, we'll guide you through the process of creating a one-of-a-kind t-shirt quilt using a collage-style approach. So, gather your beloved shirts and let's get started!
Introduction to T-Shirt Quilting
T-shirt quilting offers a unique way to repurpose old shirts into functional and sentimental keepsakes. Unlike traditional quilts, where shirts are cut into uniform squares, the collage-style method allows for more flexibility in design and layout. Each quilt becomes a personal work of art, showcasing memories and moments captured on the fabric.
Getting Started: Preparing Your Shirts
The first step in making a collage t-shirt quilt is to prepare your shirts. Lay them out flat and use a rotary cutter and ruler to trim them down to the desired size. Most logos on t-shirts are smaller than 15 inches, so a 15-inch ruler works well for this task. Be sure to leave a border around the logo for seam allowance.
Sorting and Organizing
Once you've cut your shirts, it's time to sort and organize them by color. This step will help you plan your quilt layout and ensure a balanced distribution of colors and patterns. Consider grouping similar colors together while also interspersing contrasting shades for visual interest.
Adding Interfacing
To stabilize the shirt fabric and prevent stretching, iron a large square of interfacing onto the back of each shirt piece. This step is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the quilt blocks and ensuring they sew together smoothly.
Building Your Quilt Blocks
With your shirts prepped and organized, it's time to start building your quilt blocks. Begin with a focal point, such as a central logo or design, and then add rows and columns of shirts around it. Pay attention to the width and height of each block, ensuring they fit together seamlessly.
Seam Allowance Considerations
One common pitfall in t-shirt quilting is forgetting to account for seam allowance. Remember to add a half-inch additional material for each seam that you will sew in a row or column. The seam allowance is 1/4 inch for each block, so where there are two joined together you will be losing 1/2 inch total. Failure to do so can result in mismatched block sizes and uneven seams.
Assembling Your Quilt Top
As you continue adding rows and columns to your quilt, step back periodically to assess the overall design. Experiment with different shirt combinations and layouts until you achieve the desired look. Don't be afraid to mix and match colors, patterns, and shirt sizes to create visual interest.
Finishing Touches
Once your quilt top is complete, take a moment to admire your handiwork. The collage-style approach allows for endless customization, making each quilt a unique reflection of its creator. From cherished concert tees to nostalgic college shirts, your quilt is sure to be a treasured keepsake for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making a t-shirt quilt is a rewarding and creative way to repurpose old shirts and preserve cherished memories. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or a novice crafter, the collage-style method offers endless possibilities for customization and personalization. So gather your favorite shirts, unleash your creativity, and embark on a journey to create a one-of-a-kind t-shirt quilt that will be cherished for generations. Happy quilting!
