I have a list of little projects I want to do, and t-shirt art has been on the top for several years. This spring I mentioned I was determined to try more of the ideas that I have pinned. T-shirt art fits perfectly as I’ve had an old t-shirt in the drawer for years. It came with a beautiful piece of manatee art on it. Those who read my post, Florida My Home, know I am in love with the Florida manatee or sea cow. Years ago I visited The Tampa Lowry Park Zoo with its manatee exhibit. I spent more money than I usually do for a t-shirt because I loved this art piece. When the shirt was stained and shrank, I held on to it. Today let’s make art.
I found a thrift store frame for $1.50 which is the perfect size for the art print. I made a cardboard back to fit the frame.
I cut out the art with a small overhang, positioned it on the cardboard, and taped it to the back of cardboard.
Please note: If you are framing a cherished photograph or vintage material you wish to pass on, do not use regular cardboard as backing. It has acid in it and will cause your photograph or art to age faster. Purchase archival quality backing or acid-free materials. Your project will last much longer.
I put my art in the off white frame. It looks good, but I wasn’t quite satisfied. I put it on the wall and lived with it the rest of the day.
I do believe the art would pop with a black frame. My first instinct was to paint the frame black, but then I got a crazy idea. I’ve never wrapped a frame with material but I thought the black and white polka dot fat quarter from Walmart would look beautiful.
I cut a section to fit the long side, turned the edge of the material, glued it down, and put it right next to the inner edge of the frame. I glued the material all down the frame and around. I folded edges at the corner like a package. I did the second long side.
I finally did 2 small sections with 2 folded and glued sides. They were sized for the sides and did not go all the way to the corner. They covered the edge of material from the long side. I love the look.
This frame would work with lots of black and white art.
I had the t-shirt and spent $1.50 for the frame, 97 cents for the material, and $1.00 for tacky glue from Dollar Tree. My art cost $3.47 to make. I love it. Another manatee piece to add to my collection. Thanks for dropping by. Have a beautiful day.
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I would never have thought to cover a picture frame with material but it looks fantastic. I love the polka dots. Your Tshirt is very pretty and I can see why you didn’t want to let it go, turning it into a piece of art is a lovely idea.
#keepingitreal
thanks for the sweet comment
I must confess when I read your opening I was thinking making t-shirts. This however is a great way to preserve those amazing t-shirts we love but are no longer useful as clothing. The black really does make it pop.
I love how you have repurposed your t-shirt. The spotty frame is a great idea. I have several old sweaters of the children’s that I have kept to turn into cushion covers but I might use some as wall art now. #keepingitreal
Pillows, wall art and table runners are the 3 things I look to make from vintage finds. I’d love to see the sweater upcycles when you decide.
What a clever idea, the picture works really well with the frame X #mmbc
thanks for coming by.
I love the wrapped frame. The polka dots are adorable.
Ah thanks Clearissa!
You were right about the darker frame and really creative to use fabric. This would be a great way of preserving your favourite item of baby clothing. #keepingitreal
Oh that’s a fabulous idea! Be sure and use acid-free backing for the frame.
A great idea for a used, beloved t-shirt. I have one that I think might be perfect for this!
Great idea, especially for a beloved t-shirt or a sweet memory. Visiting from Happiness Is Homemade party.
Thanks for the visit!
what a great idea for recycling and to save a favourite shirt you no longer wear or have outgrown #keepingitreal
Hi Carol, I really love that piece of manatee art too and how clever of you to upcycle it into proper picture. It looked good in a plain frame, but so much better with the polka dot frame. I’d never think to cover a frame in cloth…The manatee is such a gentle and secretive creature it is hard not to be fascinated by them.
Thank you for linking up with #keepingitreal.
xx
Have a great week Deb!
This is such a fun idea Carol. I am all for reusing old clothes in projects!
thanks Mary!
This would be such a great way to hold onto a keepsake t-shirt that no longer fits or is finally showing some wear. So clever! Thanks so much for sharing with us at the Summer Time Fun Linky. Pinned.