How to Cut Up and Embellish a Womans' T-shirt

With a little work, a plain T-shirt can be transformed into a one-of-kind fashion statement.

A plain T-shirt is the ultimate blank canvas for a fashion masterpiece. Short sleeves, long sleeves, fitted and baby tees are all candidates for an easy makeover. You'd be surprised by how many are sitting in a draw unworn and ready for an upgrade. Slash, slice, or paint any T-shirt into your own personal fashion statement.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Paint
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• Decorative trim
• Measuring tape

Instructions

DIY Urban Couture

1. Place the T-Shirt on a flat surface and measure two inches in from the seam on both sides and lightly mark. Cut from left to right, straight across the chest. Do likewise on the back of the shirt, if desired. Measure 1 to 2 inches below the first slash. Mark and repeat until you have the desired look. Vertical lines are an option but, if you are not careful they may compromise the elasticity of the material and ruin the body of the shirt. When the shirt is ready to wear, add a cami, tank top, or tube top underneath.

2. Cut the shirt 2 1/2 to 3 inches below the breasts to create a belly shirt. You can also alter the neckline by cutting a scoopneck shirt into a v-neck then staystitch the neckline. Cut long sleeves into short sleeves, or turn a short sleeve T-shirt into a sleeveless shirt.

3. Add design elements or trim including rhinestones, sequins, studs, feathers, beads, or pearls. Add contrasting top-stitching, or you can paint a motif right onto the shirt. If you feel particularly creative, draw a picture on paper, lay it on the shirt and sew right through the paper to create the image on the fabric.

Tips & Warnings

• Shop clearance racks for high quality T-shirts at low prices and use them to experiment.

• Other than the neckline or sleeves, avoid cutting the seamlines in the shirt.

• You can also use iron-on decals.

References

• Example of t-shirt embellishment