How to Use Old Sweatshirts. If you have old, stained sweatshirts that can no longer be worn or donated, don't throw them out. Instead, recycle them by making them into something new. There are several things you can create out of old sweatshirts. You can even turn it into a fun family project. The following steps will show you how to use old sweatshirts.
Step 1
Make a quilt out of your old sweatshirts. Cut out octagonal shapes and sew 2 of the octagons together with the right sides together, and then turn them inside out. When you've collected enough of these pieces, sew them all together.
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Step 2
Cut off the arms, the bottom and top of the sweatshirt until you have a square shape, turn it inside out so the right sides are facing, and then cut out 3-inch squares from each corner. Using a rectangle template to make sure all the pieces are cut evenly, cut each side 3-inches up and about ¾-inch wide to make frills on the edges. Once you've tied each of the frills together in a loose knot to attach both sides, you have a blanket for your cat or small dog to sleep on.
Step 3
Cut a strip of the sweatshirt out in a long rectangle and frill the edges to create small scarves.
Step 4
Replace an old string mop head when it gets worn out with an old inside out sweatshirt. Cut the sleeves off first and keep them for cleaning rags.
Step 5
Create a sweater for your small dog out of your old sweatshirt by removing the sleeves with pinking shears. Measure the dog up against the sweatshirt sleeve and cut out 2 holes for the front legs.
Step 6
Cut the sweatshirt down the very center in the front of the shirt. Hem the edges or add a zipper or buttons to create a jacket. You can also decorate it with fabric paint.
Step 7
Make dog rope toys by cutting the sweatshirt into strips and knotting them up.
Tip
Make a bunch of animal blankets with your sweatshirts to give away to animal shelters. If you have a stained white sweatshirt, you can tie dye it to make it look new. If you have a sweatshirt that you love, but has gotten too old and worn out to wear, cut off the picture or phrase on the shirt and frame it so you can keep it forever. Donate your unstained sweatshirts to homeless shelters and thrift stores.
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