5 Cool Ideas to Upcycle Old Clothes for a Greener Closet

So, we have got huge piles of clothes just hanging out in the back of our cupboards—you know the ones. Ones that we might, perhaps, wear again someday, but let’s be real, they’re just sitting there. Instead of throwing them or letting them gather dust, why not give those bad boys a makeover? Yep, I’m talking about upcycling! It is a good way to get your creative juices flowing, save some bucks, and help out the planet a bit.

Hey there! Are you ready to dive in? Let’s check out 5 really easy ways to upcycle old clothes and give them a whole new freshness and awesomeness!

Table of Contents

• 1. Convert Old T-Shirts to Tote Bags
• 2. Make a Patchwork Quilt
• 3. Denim Plant Holders
• 4. Gradually Change Dresses to Skirts
• 5. Make a Scarf from Old Sweaters

1. Convert Old T-Shirts to Tote Bags

You have those t-shirts lying about that you never wear but just can’t help throwing away? Well, here’s a fun idea: turn those into tote bags! And the best part? It’s way easier than you’d think and no sewing required (yep, seriously, no sewing!). Just cut off the sleeves, shape up the neckline however you like, and tie the bottom or sew it if you’re feeling all fancy.

Hey! You also have this re-usable tote bag just perfect for grocery runs or beach days. And it’s also an awesome way to breathe new life into those graphic tees with rad prints that you still dig!

2. Make a Patchwork Quilt

So with your pile of clothes full of memories—like that high school hoodie, your old band tee, or even baby clothes—you should totally consider making a patchwork quilt. It’s a great way to keep all those memories alive while giving them a fresh twist: you just cut the squares, sew ’em together, and bam! You’ve got yourself a personal blanket. This one is a bit fancier, but seriously, totally worth it.

Each time you snuggle up with this one, you are enveloped in nostalgia.

3. Denim Plant Holders

Old pair of jeans; too big and you’ll never wear again? No need to throw them away; just turn them into quirky little planters for your place! Using an old leg from that pair, some scissors, a few stitches or a dab of fabric glue, cut ’em up, seal one end, put a potted plant in there, and voilà! Absolutely quirky planters that give your home a cool rustic feel and get you into great conversations for ages!

4. Gradually Change Dresses to Skirts

That old dress doesn’t fit like it used to, or maybe you’re just tired of it. Don’t throw it in the trash! With some scissors and a little sewing aptitude, you can totally convert that into a sweet new skirt. Just cut off the top of that dress, add an elastic waist if you need one, and voila!

Hey, check this out—a new dress just for your closet and absolutely free! It’s a mighty easy way to breathe fresh life into that old dress!

5. Make a Scarf from Old Sweaters

Old, frayed-too-far sweaters or just those you don’t like anymore really make for great scarves. Cut the sweater into strips at whatever length you want and braid or sew them all together for a really thick and chunky scarf perfect for colder months. Add some fringe if you like; it’s a win-win—you get to add a cool new accessory, and your old sweater gets to be reborn.