How to Customize a Sweatshirt

A customized sweatshirt makes a unique one-of-a-kind gift that reflects a person's personality, hobby or interests. It is also an inexpensive way to represent your sport team, club or other small group. There are several methods for creating a unique design on a sweatshirt. Use a combination of designs and textures to create that special sweatshirt.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sweatshirt
• Decals
• Iron
• Sewing kit
• Fabric paint
• Dye
• Wax paper or cardboard

1. Decide what digital photo you want on the sweatshirt. For example, you can use a photo of kids, grandkids, family or pets.

2. Choose an iron-on decal, possibly one for the front and one for the back. This is a good way to show hobbies or interests.

3. Put on lettering or the logo for a team, club or school. Both can be placed wherever you want and in any direction. Be creative and use both a logo and the iron-on lettering to create family reunion, team or small group sweatshirts.

4. Attach a patch to the front or arms of a sweatshirt. Most patches are easy to apply with an iron or by sewing them on.

5. Decorate with fabric paint to create a design or write someone's name or a message on a sweatshirt. Fabric paint also creates a nice effect when used to outline images.

6. Tie-dye the sweatshirt. This is a really a great way to customize a sweatshirt, as no two items come out alike.

7. Apply various appliqués and motifs that can be used for any occasion. Variations of an appliqué can be placed anywhere on the sweatshirt or on one specific area.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the tag for proper washing instructions.
• Place a piece of wax paper or cardboard in between the front and the back of the sweatshirt to prevent any seepage of paint or glue to the back of the sweatshirt.
• Always follow manufacturer's instructions when applying designs to the sweatshirt.
• Don't leave any supplies and materials unattended that could cause harm to young children.