How to Glam Up a T-Shirt

T-shirts can be worn by all ages, so use your imagination when glamming.

The T-shirt offers its wearer a number of fashion options. Whether worn under another shirt as a layering method, or worn on its own, the T-shirt can alter an overall look. Offered in many colors, the T-shirt provides a casual, yet fashionable alternative, as well as a palette for the wearer's own designs. Utilize a few easy steps when designing your own unique creation.

Instructions

1. 

   Wash and dry your T-shirt prior to embarking on the glam process.

   Properly prepare your cotton T-shirt. Prone to shrinkage, wash and dry your shirt to obtain your desired size. If seeking a more fitted look, run the T-shirt through the dryer once more. Buy a T-shirt in one or more sizes larger than your normal size, if desiring a looser fit. After satisfying your own sizing choice, when washing the T-shirt in the future, always allow it to air dry to prevent shrinkage.

2. 

   Fabric paint can quickly liven up your shirt's surface.

   Purchase fabric paint and small brushes. Create a T-shirt displaying a fun pattern or phrase of your choosing. Test your skills on an older shirt, or rag, prior to creating your look. Use as many colors as you wish, copying a piece of artwork, stylishly writing your name or simply drawing spontaneously. After completing your design, allow an air-drying time of at least two days. When washing this creation in the future, do so by hand, using gentle laundry detergents. Bleach, or detergents containing bleach, can ruin the paint's effect, and therefore, your T-shirt.

3. 

   Attaching faux jewelry or beading can add instant appeal and glamour.

   Bedazzle your T-shirt. Purchase an array of faux jewelry pieces or beads from an arts and crafts store, as well as a glue gun or fabric paint. Arrange the pieces in a fun pattern, mixing jewels for a pop of color. Attach them by applying glue to their backing and pressing firmly onto the T-shirt. If using fabric paint, use a handful of smaller stones or glitter, and simply place in paint before drying. If creating a glammed-up look for a child, use smaller pieces so you don't overwhelm the T-shirt. Upon completing the look, allow for a proper drying time of one to two days. Remember to hand wash the new creation when necessary. The jewelry or beads may loosen over time, so keep your glue or fabric paint on hand for quick repairs.

4. 

   A tie-dyed shirt can completely revamp an old or new T-shirt.

   Tie-dye your T-shirt. Tie-dye allows for the dyeing of a shirt while creating a unique pattern. If unfamiliar with the process, purchase a kit from a local arts and craft store. Take your prewashed and dried T-shirt, and create a pattern by twisting pieces of the shirt in a circular motion. Use rubber bands to hold the shape, and repeat as often as you wish. After dyeing, allow the T-shirt ample drying time, depending on the hue you wish to attain. If desiring a lighter touch of color, let dye sit for no more than six hours. For deeper colors, allow the T-shirt to rest for at least 24 to48 hours. Rinse the T-shirt thoroughly in a basin or other container, and remove your rubber bands before finally washing in a machine.

References

• Michael's: Facts About Fabric Paint
• FemTalk: How to Make Inexpensive Clothes Look Designer
• Rit Dye: Tie-Dyeing