How To Break Down a Men's Dress Shirt, Pt. 1

[@stephanieernst4963]

I found your channel right before my father passed away. As part of a long visit at my home my mother and I worked on memory quilts with his dress shirts. We deconstructed 48 xxl dress shirts! Over two months, made six large lap quilt tops for immediate family, ten lap quilts for grandchildren and I still have lots of scraps. My mother did the majority of sewing while I cut and pressed to keep her moving forward. I have one more to make for myself. Using this process as a grief mechanism. My dad loved that I am a quilter and I want to honor him in memory. I’m going to use a pattern from Fat Quarter Shop called Brick House after thinking about a song by Miranda Lambert, “The House That Built Me”. Thank you for the videos. I really enjoy listening to your instructions and laughter while I’m sewing. It reminds me that sewing is joyful!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness, Stephanie! 🥺 I'm so sorry to hear that your father has passed away...and also blown away by your mother's and your productivity and use of his shirts! ❤️ I lost my mother many years ago, so I can relate to processing grief through handwork (mine was cross-stitch at the time.) It is one of the chief ways that I make sense of my world and the challenges it brings---therapy if you will. I'm 100% positive that your quilt for yourself will be a beautiful tribute to your dad and the memories that you shared while he was living. Thank you for your sweet and personal comment; I am very blessed by your sharing and humbled and honored that my channel and videos brings you laughter and can be a reminder of the power of the joy of sewing! So much love to you--❤️

[@nancyburke1628]

My husband passed away in 2021 and I decided to make memory quilts for my grandchildren. I do not have any one to help me with this project so I am making slow progress. I am also a beginner and have decided to make 12 inch blocks so that it will go a bit faster. I have been searching for some different block patterns and I have not been having much success. Would you be able to give me some tips? Some of the shirts his initials on the cuffs and I was planning on incorporating them in some of the blocks.

[@lisascenic]

Your laughter and energy are delightful! I don’t know why KZbin decided that I needed to see your videos, but I’m so glad that they were suggested to me!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh thank you!!! I’m glad KZbin decided you needed to see my videos too! Thank you for watching and for commenting! 🥰

[@silver_csmith]

Me too!! I do have some shirt fabric in my collection which I have always admired the fabric and the patterns. But I now feel the need to go to the thrift store to look for some cool finds!! 😆👍🏻 So glad I came across your channel!! 🥰

[@gingeralumbaugh3894]

Same thing happened to me! I wish IG used the same algorithms!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@gingeralumbaugh3894 ☺️🥰😊

[@lisettegarcia]

She strikes me as a cross between Carol Burnett and Lily Tomlin

[@BAYOUTOWNProductions]

When I take apart a dress shirt for fabric, I save ALL of my seams to use for garden ties. They do an amazing job for tying up vines and stems. Don't throw them away! They will naturally deteriorate if they are cotton and become part of your garden compost.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Another person suggested this too! Genius! 🤩😍😊

[@dreamitimagineitcreateit]

Seam reaper, death of fabrics🤣😂🤣😂🤣 I couldn’t stop laughing. Every time I grab mine I will remember this, I’m sure a lot of us will be calling it SEAM REAPER🤣Awesome just awesome❤️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh thank you! And of course I just crack my own self up!

[@judyu9116]

Me too!

[@angelar1500]

Ok this just appeared today and glad I popped in for a look, you have a great soothing quality to your voice and I appreciate that there's not a whole lot of silence due to an uneasiness from you, it seems very natural. I have made a thrifted mens shirt quilt a few years back and didn't know it was a thing! Looking forward to more from your channel. Best vibes heading your way!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you and what a lovely thing to say! Well I really DO have a lot to say! 😂 I’m so glad you found me…thanks for the comment and for watching!

[@lizziedae91]

Im glad your channel was in my recommendations. I cant wait to see how it grows.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh thank you! What a wonderful thing to say! 🥰

[@lindaharrison175]

I recently bought 21 men's shirts to make three twin sized quilts ... I had a ton of buttons left over so I donated them to an alteration shop.

[@linmeili9660]

I have disassembled and used thrift store shirts for years. When a shirt has particularly nice buttons, I thread the set of buttons onto one of the plastic thingies that are used by many thrift stores to attach tags to keep the set together. I have to use the pointy part of my seam ripper to enlarge the hole through which the thing was inserted into the fabric, but since it's usually near the edge of a piece of the shirt, the hole doesn't affect the usability of the shirt significantly.

[@thinkuthink]

I haven't been this excited to subscribe to a channel in a while! Thank you so much for your vibrancy and little side tips like playing with buttons for lil therapeutic moments of ASMR. I feel so seen :D I hope you never stop adding those details even as your channel inevitably grows and you're tempted to streamline your presentation. Resist! Resist! 😝Much love, I look forward to more ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness,thank you! 🥰 So excited to have you along with me!!

[@connieehresman1171]

I like to use scrubs and cut them up to sew pillows also quilt. I love the pictures on scrubs.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too! I have some cut up scrubs in my stash right now! 😁

[@judyu9116]

I love how you let your personality shine through! We could be friends! Keep filming!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Judy! 🥰 I'm sure we could! ❤️

[@badwolf54]

I find this fascinating and inspiring! Maybe one day you can do a “what to do with buttons” vid.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Maybe! 😱🤣 I keep having ideas but none of them have come to fruition yet!

[@D_Parks]

I’m really enjoying these videos. My favorite moment may be when you said “wiggity wack”.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You never know what I’m gonna say, honestly. So glad you enjoyed the videos!

[@KLeonardM]

Just found you and I am so excited about these shirts. Hopefully you will be demonstrating how you do your quilts. Looking forward to much information and fun.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

So glad you’re here! And yay! Probably going to end up doing some demos since I’m already getting requests to do so! 😘 I’m happy to have you along with me…I hope you continue to enjoy the videos and laugh along with me. 😄

[@KLeonardM]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I am definitely sticking around for the fun...

[@lauraoneal5146]

I just found your channel about 4-5 days ago. I have been binge watching you ever since while working on a quilt I’m trying to finish for my daughter for Christmas. The first time I heard you say I think it was “Seam Reaper…Death to fabric” I was DEAD!! 💀😂😂😂😂 Now every time I unfortunately reach for mine I laugh like an idiot instead of getting as angry as I normally would have. You just said it in this video and I’m laughing and trying to not wake my hubby. Hard thing to do. Thanks for helping me control the anger at myself and think “It’s just a little thread to tear out.” There are a lot worse things in this world right now than that little sewing mistake. Please continue your videos and I will be happily here to listen to ALL YOU HAVE TO SAY ABOUT FABRIC!! THANK YOU!! Merry Christmas to you and yours! 🎄💙🪡🧵✂️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness, thank you, Laura! ❤️

[@theresaakin2284]

I save the button strips with buttons intact. One time I needed a type of closure for a pillow. By keeping the button strips intact, I save/cut one inch from the actual strips. With everything intact. I don't have to worry about button placement. Same with buttoned cuffs. Also same with zippers. I cut an inch outside of the strip.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I think everyone has their way…I made a pillow once with the buttons/button placket and just didn’t love it like I thought I would, so that’s why I do it the way I do now. 👍🏻

[@annettemaxie-mahmoud2390]

Great video Cathy! My husband is retired now, but used to dress up for work everyday so I have a ton of beautiful dress shirts already laundered that I will use to try making a quilt with! So excited I found your channel!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay, Annette! I’m so glad you found me too! ❤️

[@patemmack7205]

My first thought was, “Wow, she must have an amazing button collection!” The quality of buttons on older clothing or high quality shirts is so much better than the buttons sold in fabric stores today. I love the idea of recycling mens dress shirts. I am a cross stitcher, and I plan to make some quilted project bags.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I DO have a pretty good button collection! I think you are gonna love working with recycled men's dress shirts---it is so rewarding! ❤️

[@lucilegubbins4433]

I have Hawaiian shirts that have been in the closet for a long time that need this series!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ooh that could make a gorgeous quilt!

[@lensdiva]

You popped up on my watch list so of course, I watched! I loved this video. When I first started quilting I went to the thrift store for shirts. Since then, I guess I’ve fallen into the pretty fabric store trap!! It’s easy to look for a specific color or pattern on the bolt I suppose. You’ve inspired me to get my behind back in the thrift store. Can’t wait to see more videos, and feel free to check out my channel when you’re not out thrifting 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

The fabrics at the quilt store ARE so lovely...it's easy to get sucked in! I try to start at the thrift store, see what I can find, and then supplement with fat quarters where there are gaps in the colorway. That way the end result is a really great mix of fabrics that are special for totally different reasons!

[@bric82577]

I am brand new to quilting (only about half way through my first quilt). I had the thought that using thrift store dress shirts would be a great way to practice and make inexpensive quilts to donate to the local homeless shelter. Then I stumbled across your channel. I am really looking forward to the rest of this series.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

So glad! Thanks for watching!

[@kimberlybecker7563]

You are so delightful to listen too, your laughter is so contagious 😂 “ seam reaper” Also just enjoy your adoration for the same quilty things. I also love thrift stores & next payday I’m inspired to go thrifting for some men’s shirts for a baby quilt ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Kimberly! 🥰❤️ We have a lot of kindred spirits here in the community on my channel---I'm so glad to have you here! 🤓😊

[@gingeralumbaugh3894]

Your KZbin channel is my new favorite!! I love the content but also love you and your energy! I have wanted to make a quilt with men’s shirts for awhile and your videos have given me the nudge I needed! I dropped in a thrift store today and picked up 2 shirts to start with. I know this is going to be my new obsession!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww yay!! 🥰 Thank you and I’m glad you’re here with me! ❤️

[@sandracedar368]

I'm going to be prepared to begin once I find “a few good shirts!” THANK YOU🤗

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You’re welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@dawnsanfilippo6357]

I keep the buttons from each shirt together in a small plastic bag. One shirt's buttons per bag. This way if a shirt loses a button and I don't have an extra, I can find a full set of similar buttons in my stash and replace all of them. I also keep all of the buttons from any garmet I can't donate.

[@bobbinsew]

Your comment about missing your bin really made me laugh, because it’s exactly what I do too. I embroider whilst sitting at night and there’s always a ring of colourful thread bits around my bin on the floor where I’ve reached over the arm and dropped them in the right-ish direction. I use large tin cans from the kitchen as bins, the sort that have a kilo of tomatoes for example. Once washed and dried I cover them with nice paper,or fabric, maybe decorate with trim and then find homes for them all around my work spaces. I’ve two either side of my sewing machine, on the cutting bench, next to the iron and multiple other places. My Husband is convinced they are breeding considering how they multiply! Loving your series about quilting with clothing, here in New Zealand 🇳🇿 quilting shop fabric is between $24 and $36nz per yard 😱 so anything I can do to bring the cost down really helps.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Beverly, for your kind words! ❤️ I need to make some of your tin-can-turned-sewing-room-bins idea! Because I have threads and bits of fabric all over my floor, couch and ironing board! Thank you for sharing! 🤓👍🏻😊

[@floralheart]

Hi Cat, today I took 7 shirts apart and thought of you. I only use scissors to disassemble my shirts, always following the seams. Nothing goes to waste, I use the seams to crochet, cuffs and collars goes on the making of handbags and rugs. Wishing you much success with your new channel. Looking forward to see your quilts !

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh I love the idea of crocheting with the seams! I bet it makes great rugs…like the rag rugs out grandmothers always seemed to have! Thank you for the kind words and for watching. Glad you’re here with me’

[@eljay5623]

Seam reaper! I love it and so apt! Death to the seam is precisely what is happening! I’m tng to borrow you term!

[@julietierney2516]

I use the plackets with and without buttons to make pillows. They are so cute.

[@jenniemcdonald1038]

I adore your vocabulary! Watching you is the most fun I've had on you tube in forever! Thank you 😀 Please please make more. Can't wait to watch

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you so much! 🥰 so glad you’re enjoying the videos!

[@misheyp.5103]

These tutorials are awesome!! Thank you!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@laraeirwin1211]

You are so full of great information and love your podcast. Please do more, I really want to do some quilting with my husbands old dress shirts. Thank you for giving your time and energy so we can learn.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww thank you! 🥰 Thank you for watching!

[@silver_csmith]

Ok can we take a moment to appreciate that quilt behind you!!! 😍👌🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️ I am so glad I came across your channel!! I kept a bag of my Grandpa’s old shirts when he passed away that I have wanted to make a memory quilt out of….this is the inspiration I needed to get on it!! 👏🏻🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Well thank you!!! It was a fun one to make and several of those strips are men’s dress shirts…which is still kinda crazy to me! Pattern is from Suzy Quilts, the Adventureland Quilt. Thanks for the comment!

[@nancyburke1628]

I have been scouting around to find the best ways for me to break down mens shirts so that I don"t have so much mess. It may take a little longer than using my scissors but I am happy with it. I have a ceramic seam ripper that I got on amazon and I love it. I also use an exacto knife to hit the hard to get threads. I use the ceramic ripper to take off the buttons and the pocket. Then I wash the shirts and then take them apart while I am watching TV. Actually some of the threads in the side seams come out easily. Try it you might like it.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you for the suggestion! ❤️

[@kerryburgess3834]

What a coincidence....I had just visited my favourite thrift shop 3 days ago and came home with 7 shirts (and 6 pair of jeans) for my latest project - a Japanese style Hanten jacket. I've bought mens shirts for years for my quilting and as you say there is such a wonderful variety of colours and patterns and a great way to resource clothes. Really enjoying your posts!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you for watching!

[@kykwiltz402]

Sounds lovely, Kerry. Do you have a link or a source for the pattern? Thanks!

[@kerryburgess3834]

@@kykwiltz402 Well I can't claim to any originality with regards the pattern. I saw it in a KZbin post from Kate from The Last Homely House who said it was from a book by Susan Briscoe called "The Book of Boro". The jacket is on the cover and I've decided to use denim jeans for the outside layer and mens shirts for the lining. Good luck with your project.

[@kykwiltz402]

@@kerryburgess3834 Thanks for the info, Kerry.

[@D_Parks]

@@kerryburgess3834 Your jean jacket project sounds fantastic!

[@dawnbarry2985]

For the small bits of thread, put a small container, like a washed out yogurt or sour cream container on the table next to you. You will not have to move your arm so far each time and are less likely to miss the trash. Then you can put the top back on the tiny container and toss it in the trash. The trash will be easier to empty without little threads. Great video, easy to follow your directions.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for commenting!

[@caitlinmatthews1401]

Great series. I'm off to go find some shirts today!

[@abigailhurst9022]

I absolutely love your channel. I’m just beginning, and they’re so informative. I can’t wait for the next video.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Hooray! I haven’t been quilting very long myself…but I love sharing what I’ve learned already! Thanks for watching and for commenting. 😊

[@lizreynolds4554]

Great advice and information. Thank you for sharing this with us. Huggles Always 🎉😊

[@brendahamrick9337]

Found another of your videos! I can’t wait to go to the Good Will tomorrow to look for some shirts! Thanks Cathy!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yw! Hope you get a good haul! ❤️

[@susanbertrand8620]

I picked up an ergonomic seam ripper aka “reverse stitcher” this year and it has been great to use.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I need to check this out!

[@angelastevenson252]

Yes I had to look up what an A.S.M.R moment was! LOL Coined in 2010, ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) is a relaxing, often sedative sensation that begins on the scalp and moves down the body. Also known as "brain massage," it's triggered by placid sights and sounds such as whispers, accents, and crackles.

[@Jana-TheCraftyGambler]

I make a lot of T shirt quilts and I use as much of the shirt as I can. The is definitely an art to cutting them to get as much real estate out of them as possible. Buying the largest shirt as you can find is a great idea as well. You have talked me into doing more with mens shirts as well. We go to yard sales every weekend. I will start looking for them there as well. I have. Thrift store close by that I can usually buy shirts for $1.00-$2.00. I buy the largest size of jeans I can buy because I use them in my sewing as well.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I’m impressed with people who can make t-shirt quilts…the instability of knit fabric stresses me out! 🤣 thanks for watching and for the comment!

[@DJ-rx5lz]

Put shopping bags from Walmart or Target inside your trash can--hubby will love you for it❤

[@ksantuci]

Great video! I'm a huge fan of recycling clothing for use in quilts. Looking forward to your next video.

[@cheryljacoby7465]

I guess I'm a little AR, because I string my buttons together. It just makes it so much easier to find a set that way. Even though playing with the buttons r really fun n relaxing. Can't wait to see all your up coming video's. Ty n have a great day.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Never thought of that! Thank you for watching and commenting…glad to have you with me!

[@carefulbodycare7053]

Wow so glad I found your channel. I just started doing this a few Months ago the quality of dress shirts is amazing. Glad I found you.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I’m glad you found me too! 🥰

[@lyndaslocum7404]

I use blue mushroom boxes and drop scraps in it. Keep it close by. Have 2 new shirts i got for $2 and im going to make 2 baby quilts.

[@sewhappysarahr8912]

Seam reaper! This laugh is exactly what I needed today!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh hooray! Love that you got a laugh too! 😂

[@joycestevens5182]

ASMR ♥️ looking forward to the rest of the series, great content.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you!!

[@ginettelefebvre8817]

Hi Cathy... enjoying your videos. Anxiously waiting for your next video. Thanks hugs

[@jennjennedington279]

I have that same Ikea gray felt bin! And I use it for the same thing!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

No kidding! I just ordered 2 more because I have so many scraps now that I'm not only quilting but doing demo videos! I love that we have yet another thing shared. ❤️

[@jeanetteharris373]

I'm so happy to have happened on your channel! I am looking forward to the rest of this series. I was wondering if there are any fabric content that you steer clear of when choosing your thrifted shirts?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I avoid all polyester shirts like the plaque, if I can help it. If it feels "slicky" or silky, it may be difficult to sew and hold a crease; I've learned 100% cotton, linen, or cotton linen blend is really your best choice. Thanks for your comment!😊

[@D_Parks]

Excellent question. I was wondering the same thing. I just now saved a reminder in my phone’s notes: 100% cotton, linen, cotton/linen blend

[@jeanetteharris373]

Thank you for the tips!

[@sampleworks9432]

Seam reap, janky, wiggety whack…sew much to teach me lol…had a good giggle . thanks for sharing your tips

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You just never know what I might say! 😂 Thanks for watching and for commenting!

[@sallyward9218]

I also just found you and I love your channel- I binge watched every episode! I could listen to your charming southern accent all day long- and find myself thinking in a Southern accent ;) Thank you for all the great ideas on thrusting men's shirts! I purchased a blue striped shirt for a quilt I have been collecting blue& white stripes for several years- when I got home- my husband loved it!🤷‍♀️ When I was watching one of your other episodes, I found myself wondering if you used part of the shirts where the buttons used to be- and if the threads holding the buttons put a stress on the fabric in that area- could it cause a hole? ... if you cut the buttons off before washing the shirts- sometimes the washing process will relax the fabric where a possible hole could arise- so you will have a better idea if it is just stress - or an actual hole- an I explaining myself clearly? Anyway, God bless you - and thank you for all this great info❣️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I do use the fabric that is where the buttons used to be…as long as you’re careful and don’t snip the fabric, it doesn’t pull into a hole. All the “seam holes” come out in the wash of the finished quilt. 😊❤️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh and so glad you enjoy the videos! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@AuntGrace]

❤ green shirt with white collar

[@MiDo-hn8bo]

Great vid! Love the quilt top behind you, might steal your design if i ever find the time. So many ideas so little time. I would not save the buttons, because i even inherited buttons of my mother which she had inherited of my grandmother :))

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you! The design isn’t mine..it’s the Adventureland Quilt by Suzy Quilts. kzbin.info Check out her Instagram. Some gorgeous pattern designs there to drool over! 😍🤩 Thanks for the comment!

[@jenniewren9351]

If you do it a lot I guess you could put them in a jar and sent the jar to goodwill or donate to a school for art projects. I hate throwing things away - can you tell?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@jenniewren9351 I’m the same…always thinking of ways to hand off usable goods to people who might want them!

[@veronicaosborn3029]

I spy your AdventureLand quilt! On another note, I’m sold on the shirts for quilting!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yes the Adventureland Quilt! I think it worked up beautifully. (Some of those fabrics are shirts, btw!) thanks for watching and for commenting!

[@ingridcarstensen2542]

Great information delivered in a very funny way! Seam reaper😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

😂right? Cracked my own self up!

[@grandmayolie]

Do you have a Pinterest page I’d love to see some of your mens shirt creations? Love that you joined and are sharing your Shirt ideas. My Granddaughter just graduated from Boise State and loves Thrift shopping and I’m teaching her how to sew. Can’t wait for the next video. Thanks again 🙋🏻‍♀️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks for watching! I do have a Pinterest page (with very little on it! 🤣) but you can find a lot of my stuff on Instragram or on my FB page.😊🥰

[@jocobuyer]

Great video! Looking forward to the next in series.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you! Glad you’re here with me!

[@cpemg]

You are so adorable. And now I will finish watching your video :)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Well my goodness! Thank you!!🥰❤️😊

[@3catscarefreelife]

Since i have a lot to say about everything, everything, everything.🤣. That’s me. My hubby lovingly calls me KIA (know it all).

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I always say, if I don’t have an opinion on something, just gimme a minute. 😉 Thanks for watching and thanks for your comment!

[@aprilwalter8708]

I stitch my matching buttons on to card x

[@pamelacopeland4824]

I had always heard it regarded as "de-boning" a shirt!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I like that too!

[@carolynbuck-gengler8771]

I am revisiting your videos because my husband just gave me three shirts he doesn't wear anymore (he's worn out the necks), and I wanted to review the best way to take them apart. In previous projects I used 30 of his shirts to make graduation quilts for each of my sons. I saved the buttons, and recently gave the local elementary school's art teacher 415 buttons! I had actually kept them separated by type (which he appreciated), using an egg carton; worked well (I strung them on thread, in groups, when I passed them off to him). I am wondering, do you have a similar set of ordered processes for deboning a set of jeans? or do you ever use the fabric from jeans? Thanks again for your great videos!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Carolyn! ❤️ I just realized I never responded to your question--I don't have a breakdown method for jeans, and haven't quilted with them (yet) but I have plans for an all-jeans quilt in the future!

[@kathyf3656]

SUGGESTION: I watched this video, then later, I thought of saving some of the parts as is. Instead of cutting off buttons and discarding the plackets, save them, along with the cuff sections with buttons and button holes, and any pockets. Save those parts for Fidget Quilts. The motions of buttoning shirt sections, and putting and removing things from pockets (items are attached to ribbons inside the pocket) are great activities for both elderly dementia patients as well as autistic children. If you don't make these kinds of charity items, they can be donated to groups who do Fidget Quilts.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Great idea! Thank you for sharing! 🥰

[@lorettahenderson8979]

Thank you ❤

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

I have a mini trash container right on my sewing table and that catches all the small stuff….just a thought for you dear.

[@bonnieh2123]

I found that using a rotary cutter makes cutting up shirts a breeze. If you have arthritis or have other hand problems, the rotary cutter creates less stress in your hand or wrist. Finally, with a little practice, rotary cutters can definitely speed up the process.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

So true! I use scissors because I generally break down shirts while sitting on the couch watching tv with my husband at night after I get off work…so a rotary cutter won’t work in that scenario! 🤣thanks for watching and commenting!

[@lindasewmad3325]

If you removed the buttons, labels before washing would it close the needle holes?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Linda-- I bet it would! Genius! 🤓🤩

[@rachelsnee8926]

Is there a reason you don't turn the shirts inside out and make the cuts right next to the seam, just cutting off the seam allowances? By doing it on the outside you seem to be cutting the width of the seam allowances outside the seam, so you are losing nearly half an inch of each of your front and back pieces. I know that's not a lot, but it could make the difference for some quilt pieces and it wouldn't take any more work...

[@Cassandra-..-]

Lots of ways to recycle unused fabric scraps! Check locally, but also Ridwell takes a bag of fabric/threads/clothes/shoes with every pickup. Ask your quilt guild’s charity/community service lead where to take it locally for free. P.S. since I am clearly a /slasher/ I am adopting Seam Reeper as well!!!🤣

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lol! Thanks for the comment!

[@janesmith4617]

Loving your videos! Just a quick question--are those Fiskars scissors? I've been considering buying some but wonder how well they keep their sharpness and spring.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

They are Fiskars and I love them! I’ve had them forever…I think we have had them sharpened once. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@connieking9873]

Great video always save buttons in old milk jars.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Well that’s a good idea! Thanks for your comment!

[@jenniewren9351]

Even if you don’t want buttons or scraps for yourself, save them and pass them on to schools for crafts.

[@tetelalabender5941]

Wow. Great video. What is the quilt behind you?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It is the “Adventureland” quill pattern from Suzy Quilts! Here is the link if you’re interested in getting the pattern: suzyquilts.com/shop/adventureland-quilt-pattern-download/ Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!

[@bettyboops2222]

Most was about buttons!

[@BusyMagnaBee]

The buttons would make great filling for “bean bags”.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

GREAT idea!! Thank you!! 🤓🤩👍🏻

[@DonnaWhitten]

I take a needle and thread and keep the buttons together with thread. then don't have to search for same buttons at a later date.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What a great idea! Thanks for sharing! ❤️

[@marlenemiller7750]

Just found your video’s and enjoy them so much! Curious if you pay much attention to actual fabric content of the shirts? Do you use mostly all cotton shirts or are you just focused on the pattern and color? Looking forward to the rest of your series!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I pay attention to EVERYTHING. 😂initially I used whatever fabric I liked…now I’m very choosy and only use 100% cotton, linen, or a cotton/linen blend. Very rarely I will break my own rule…and I almost always regret it! 😳 Thanks for the comment (and the compliment!)

[@jenniewren9351]

I don’t know about the USA, but in the UK we love bunting. So I use poly cotton to make bunting with.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@jenniewren9351 depends on the region…not a lot of bunting in my area!

[@genawalter401]

I am curious what you look for in a shirt when deciding to purchase it at the thrift store?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I actually did a video on that very thing! It’s called “best fabric for quilting with men’s dress shirts” (or something like that! Lol!) I go into detail about what works best and what to look for! Thanks for asking! ❤️🤓👍🏻

[@genawalter401]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts oh thank you! I just found your channel so I didn't see that one. I will look for it!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@genawalter401 you’re welcome!! And thanks for watching and commenting! I’m so glad you found me! ❤️

[@altaroberts5105]

If you put a bin liner or shopping bag in the trash can it is easy to empty. Even without taking out the liner. However, I prefer putting fabric "leftovers" into recycle instead of trash. Liners can also be recycled. Save the environment.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Good idea! Since this video, I’ve learned that 100% cotton fabric (and wool and linen) are all compostable! Isn’t that cool? Thanks for commenting!

[@tracycook7355]

Could the button and buttonhe bands not be kept for a different project ?

[@maryharvey724]

Me too. They could be a closure for a tote bag or the back side of a pillow. I’m with you in this idea.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yes I think so! I do keep the buttons (hence the button bag) for future projects, and I actually used a buttonhole placket for the closure for a quilted pillow that I made and it wasn’t nearly as effective as I thought it would be. The buttonholes are further apart than one might expect. I keep having this idea of a quilt made totally out of collars and cuffs (and buttonhole plackets)…maybe one day I’ll make it! 😊

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

Seam reaper. Hahaha When I'm making a new garment that needs buttons, I go to the thrift store and find a shirt that has buttons that will match. No matter how ugly the shirt is, it might have a great bunch of buttons, and where I live, you can get the ugly shirts for $1.49.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Super smart! Thanks for the comment! 😊👍🏻

[@rachelsnee8926]

Sadly in the UK we don't have the large thrift stores I got used to in Vancouver, with discounts and sales days etc. In London you'd be lucky to get any shirt for $4 let alone a 100% cotton or linen one, and never any for as cheap as $1.49!

[@heirloominthemaking564]

LOL seam reaper (not to be confused with a Dream Weaver ;-))) appropriate since many quilters call it "Jack" as in Jack the Ripper the famous serial killer

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lol! Yes there is certainly a wide disparity between Dream Weaver and Seam Reaper! #deathtoseams 😂

[@janemartin229]

I'm surprised you use men's shirts for quilting. I've always heard that cotton is best for quilting, but you rarely find a dress shirt that isn't partially polyester. My husband sold men's suits and clothes, so I've salvaged many of his shirts. I always save the buttons, too. I've used his old shirts for other sewing projects, but I haven't made any quilts. Recently I've come across sewing projects using men's shirts, but I'd already cut all the buttons off them!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I actually find LOTS of 100% cotton shirts (and linen and cotton/linen blend) to use for quilting…you”d be surprised! And I do occasionally break the cotton rule if I see a shirt in a color or pattern I love. (And then I usually regret it when I sew it later! Lol) Thanks for watching and for commenting!

[@heathersarbo271]

What do you do with all the buttons?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

So far I just save them! Lol! I keep meaning to come up with a craft for them but now I’m too busy quilting! Another commenter said she sells them…which is genius! (But I don’t know to who or how or where! 🤣) I think they would make great embellishments for Christmas ornaments but I haven’t quite worked that out yet! 😄

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

I have used my “seam reaper” so often that it is dull….I need to get a new one…

[@terris7842]

Seam Ripper? 🙂 I call it a Quick Unpick. (Australian) 🙂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I like that!

[@patriciahomer5342]

❤

[@janeteholmes]

My husband hardly wears most his shirts these days. I’m gonna see what I can repurpose. Not sure what he’ll think about it! Waste not, want not, as my old great grandmother used to say!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I'm sure if you make something beautiful with them, all will be forgiven!

[@lilcowgirlsluvr]

😊❤

[@susangenry6497]

I am trying to watch your videos. I have watched 3 videos, no quilt to show, just talk. I love mens shirts but would like to see what you make...

[@pamelahill7164]

Have you thought of saving all the buttons in a jar and selling them and re coupling your money back on your shirts. Then your fabric is actually practically free. I save and sale them.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I had not thought of that, but it’s very clever! Who buys them? (And what forum do you sell them from?)

[@miaswenson2837]

I love the topic BUT you could cut the talking so one video for content would be great

[@whateverislovely5909]

We are NOT old 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

😂

[@HeikeWoolard]

I just removed buttons from 11 shirts and used a new razor blade. Worked like a charm.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That’s wonderful! I don’t trust myself with a fresh razor blade…I would accidentally cut myself without a doubt! But I think everyone has to find their preferred method. 😊 And 11 shirts! You must have a project in mind! 😁

[@HeikeWoolard]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Oh, it's all your fault. They were each $1 at the thrift store. 10 - 100% cotton and one a silk/cotton mix. Some short sleeve, most long sleeves. And one is a beautiful deep red, very soft twill. 2 lavender, 1 black (silk/cotton), 2 beige/brown and the rest blue in all shades. Definitely looks like a boy baby quilt. No, I don't know if there is one in my future, but why not be ready, right? 😁💙

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@HeikeWoolard ok I laughed out loud at this! I too just bought several shirts for which I have no obvious need or project in mind. But I mean, fabric! Inexpensive fabric! Pretty, soft fabric! 😂

[@HeikeWoolard]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts when it's fabric it is not hoarding, sooooo......... buy it then 😁🤣❤

[@tonigelineau7992]

15 minutes to tell me you cut off the buttons? My time is too valuable for the loads you have to say. Get to the point, dear. Fast forward is the key here , should I tune in again.

[@HeikeWoolard]

OMG, you have me hooked. Only 4 videos? Can't wait to see what else you have in store for us. ❤🪡🧵

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Another one coming tomorrow! Thanks for watching and commenting!