×
Back left
Back right

How to: Make Your Own Embellished Shirt

Jan 28, 2011

Decorating your own t-shirts is a lot easier than you think and is super fun! With a bit of creativity, some craft supplies and glue, you can customize any t-shirt and make it your own design. Plain cotton t-shirts are inexpensive and since you’re jazzing it up yourself, a plain white or black cotton one will do. Once you get the hang of embellishing your own t-shirts, you can even make customized t-shirts as gifts for friends and family - not only is this is a thoughtful gift, it’s easily customizable to their own style and personality.


Make your own cute floral embellished shirt!Make your own cute floral embellished shirt!

Design Your Own Shirts!

Have a friend who’s into art? Paint or draw a picture on the front of a white t-shirt and add a bit of lace detailing to make it pretty. Want to incorporate a logo or stencil? Simply by some fabric paint or markers and get to work! You’ll wonder why you ever bought pre-printed t-shirts again!


Stencil a cat face on your shirt!Stencil a cat face on your shirt!
Fabric glue is a necessity for this project of course!Fabric glue is a necessity for this project of course!

Fabric Paint, Markers and Graffiti

Using fabric markers and paint is super easy - the possibilities are endless! You can draw your own design, use a stencil and spray paint to create something that looks like street art1980s pop art and wear it with some skinny jeans and an oversized cardigan sweater! The Tulip Fashion Graffiti Starter Kit we found at Michael’s Craft Store is perfect for creating funky designs.


DecoFabric Glitter fabric markersDecoFabric Glitter fabric markers
Tulip Fashion Graffiti starter kitTulip Fashion Graffiti starter kit

Patches and Stencils

Iron on stencils and patches are super easy and are ready in minutes. They’re on there permanently and the best part is that you can customize the rest of the shirt by adding a bit of glitter, sequins or different fabrics. If you find some cool fabric around the house or in a shop, get a small piece, cut it into whatever shape you like and simply use fabric glue to stick it on the t-shirt. If you go to fabric stores, they will often give you scraps of fabric for free if you ask nicely!


Fashion Graffiti StencilsFashion Graffiti Stencils

Buttons, Sequins, Ribbons and Lace!

There are no rules when it comes to embellishing and designing your own t-shirt. It might help to draw a sketch of your t-shirt design ahead of time if you have something specific in mind although this isn’t necessary. Stick on a pattern using buttons, throw a bunch of sequins on one section or put a bunch of different things on at once - anything goes! A bit of ribbon and lace adds a pretty and feminine touch to any shirt!


Mix and match ribbons!Mix and match ribbons!
Satin ribbons add a feminine edgeSatin ribbons add a feminine edge
Related Stories