How to Make a Bikini From an Old T-shirt

If you're looking for a fun craft project, you can turn an old t-shirt into a bikini. Relax poolside or hit the beach in one of these low-cost alternatives to designer suits. If you're new to crafting, be prepared to sacrifice a few old shirts before you create the perfect bikini.

Things You'll Need

• Old t-shirts
• Sewing pins
• Needle and thread
• Safety pin

Instructions

Create the Bikini Top

1. Cut about 1/2 inch off the bottom of the t-shirt to remove the hemline.

2. Cut two, 1-inch strips off the bottom. Cut one of the strips at the corner to create a single, long strip. Cut the other strip in the middle, creating two strips.

3. Cut a 9-inch strip off the bottom of the shirt.

4. Use a fabric pen to draw a triangle onto the fabric. Make sure the sides are 8 inches and the bottom is 10 inches. Create an arch along the bottom with a 1-inch center. Make another triangle on the other side of the fabric.

5. Pin and cut out both triangles.

6. Bend over 1 inch at the top corner of one of the triangles, and set one of the shorter strings on top of it.

7. Pin a 1/2-inch seam along the sides of the triangle, making sure to fold the string into the seam at the top.

8. Sew the seam, and be sure to fasten the string tightly to the fabric.

9. Create the other triangle.

10. Pin the bottom of both triangles and sew the seams together. Make sure to leave a small space open at both ends.

11. Thread the long string through both triangles to finish off your bikini top.

Create the Bikini Bottoms

1. Cut off the bottom hem of a t-shirt.

2. Snip two, 1-inch strips off the base.

3. Cut each of the two strips in half, and then cut them again to create four strips of equal length.

4. Use a fabric pen to sketch a rectangle measuring 19-inches across and 16-inches down. Pin the fabric together and cut it.

5. Sketch an hourglass on the rectangle. Make sure the narrow part of the hourglass is 11 inches from the top and 4-inches wide.

6. Fold the top corners of the hourglass and insert a short string on each side. Pin and sew a 1-inch seam, making sure to cover the string on each end.

7. Create the bottom half of the hourglass by cutting two strips in half. Cut them once more to create four strips.

8. Cut three small slits on each side of the "crotch" of your bikini bottoms.

9. Fold each side over 1 inch, pin them and sew the seam closed.

10. Tie the side strings together and try on your new bikini bottoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Establish a workout routine as you prepare to make your bikini. Develop your body to look good in your new suit.