Upcycled T-Shirt to Ruffled Top

Like I've said, I don't like using patterns. I'm not very patient, and I don't like measuring. Upcycling projects are perfect for me. Structurally, everything's all there, and often there's not much more to be done than a quick seam adjustment or two and some fun details.

This project started as a plain long-sleeved t-shirt, the kind most clothing stores can sell for just a few dollars. I always end up with one in just about every color.

To make the strapless top, I cut straight across the underarms, cutting off the top and the arms. I cut one of the arms into four long strips, from which I made a double front and back ruffle. Although I knew the basic idea behind making a ruffle, I'd never done it before. It's pretty easy and kind of satisfying to pull that straight piece of fabric into a cute ruffle. Before I attached the ruffle, I sewed a tubed hem around the top and inserted elastic all the way around. I used the other arm to make the belt. And that's it! The best part of sewing with a knit t-shirt material is that it doesn't fray, so you don't have to worry about finishing the edges of the ruffle.

I've done a couple upcycling projects this summer, including a simple skirt to strapless dress which turned out quite well. Upcycling projects are a great way to design and make your own cute new things without spending a ton of money. Check back soon for more ideas!