Fun & simple DIY with old clothes

by Debbie Goldberg 05/25/2025

Person measuring cloth

Do you have old clothes and fabrics taking up space at home? When donation isn’t an option, DIY projects with old clothes are a great way to bring new life to these materials. From home decor to dog toys, there are countless options for repurposing your old clothes.

Accent wall with fabric picture frame centerpiece

Really make your accent wall stand out with a beautiful fabric picture frame. Consider using old shirts with fun patterns on your frame to contrast the wall. For example, you could use a bright floral print t-shirt to bring some color and energy to a dark wall.

Throw pillows from an old tote bag

Before you head to the store for new throw pillows, consider making your own from old tote bags. Many tote bags are made from canvas material, which is sturdy and stylish. Other materials like cotton, linen or denim also make excellent pillowcases.

DIY dog corner complete with dog toys

Denim is a fantastic material for crafting DIY dog toys. Denim is durable, so it makes for a good chew toy. Create a fun bone shaped toy by outlining the shape onto two pieces of denim and cutting out the pattern to sew together. Remember to supervise your pet when giving them a new toy.

Fabric scraps for paint job cleanups

If you intend to paint your interior walls or working on an art project, fabric scraps can be helpful. Fabric scraps can soak up extra paint quickly and help in the cleanup process. Rather than buy shop rags or waste paper towels, put your old clothes to use in your other home improvement tasks.

Other home decor ideas using a sewing machine

If you have a sewing machine, you can combine old fabrics into a blanket. Blankets make for wonderful gifts as they can be put to use daily or used for decor.

If you have a bunch of old clothes and fabrics, donating them can help others get much needed resources and helps to ensure the items are put to good use. Any leftover fabrics can be used around the home for your next DIY projects. Using old clothes and fabrics saves money and helps you to live a more sustainable life.

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About the Author

Debbie Goldberg

I'm a full time Realtor with over 30 years of experience yet young enough to embrace today's ever-changing scope of marketing and technology. Having grown up in Connecticut and moved many times (too many to count!) I can empathize with today's buyers and sellers. Strictly maintaining ethical standards and being a fierce advocate on behalf of my clients are things I take very seriously. As a buyer, you can expect me to listen to and evaluate your real estate wants and needs. I can assist in explaining relevant forms, agreements, and closing procedures. I will guide you through the process of finding the right home, negotiating your offer, adhering to all contract dates and terms as well as final walk through and closing procedures. As a seller, I will listen to and evaluate your goals, needs, and timing in order to properly price your home to get the maximum exposure needed to attract the right buyers. In addition to negotiating on your behalf, I will make sure we communicate throughout the entire process as we navigate the contract terms, finance and inspection contingencies, as well as all closing procedures. I was born in Japan, grew up in Hamden and lived in New York, Ohio and Southern California before settling down in New Haven county to raise two kids, two dogs and a cat. I'm passionate about good food and love to bake. Some of my free time has been spent volunteering at Temple Beth Sholom, a synagogue where my family has been members for over 40 years. I also spend time at Tower One/Tower East, an assisted living center in New Haven where my mother-in-law now resides. 30 years of helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals has given me the peace of mind to know that what I do everyday matters. If you are thinking of buying or selling please keep me in mind.