Quilting With Shirts - The Challenges and Solutions

[@kirbymallak]

FYI if you leave the cuff buttons on, you can salvage 2 "cord keepers" from each shirt. We use the cuffs to manage all the unruly cords and wires that would be otherwise tangled under desks and behind the entertainment center. I just wrap excess cord around my hand and then wrap up that coil in a cuff cutoff and button it shut. It works well enough that my husband will take them to work (industrial cleaning) and the guys swoop them up to use in their vans. No biggie if they get lost or damaged, they used to be "trash".

[@TheRozylass]

What a fantastic idea! Thanks ever so much for sharing.

[@ecoquilting7077]

Love it!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That's a great idea! Thank you for sharing! 🤓❤️

[@Gmaslilnestegg]

I'm a 70 year old grandma just learning to quilt. I am also extremely frugal, so I love the idea of reusing shirts. My partner takes the buttons off for me and while he's busy with that, I breakdown the shirts. Thrift stores are great, and so are garage sales. I recently found 10 beautifully cared for 3X cotton dress shirts at one garage sale. I was so delighted!!

[@JoSews-t6m]

When I am worn out from making a quilt top I take a break and break down shirts for a calming change. It IS very meditative.

[@Making-Beth-Gain]

I do this exact same thing! It is very relaxing and when I’m breaking the shirts down it feels like I’m still doing quilty things !

[@JoSews-t6m]

@@Making-Beth-Gain exactly! I am new to quilting so haven’t made a quilt from shirts yet. I’m still studying with CatBird to learn the ins and outs of it and in the meantime breaking down shirts. I even found a skirt and men’s swim trunks I broke down. Cant wait to make a quilt top from recycled fabrics…

[@Making-Beth-Gain]

You’ll find great advice from Cathy for all things regarding upcycled fabric!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

So agree. Sometimes I just turn my attention to breaking down shirts when I'm feeling overwhelmed with all the quilt-related things I need to do (or when work is stressful, or in between hand-binding projects!)

[@cindyhansen939]

From one designer to another I appreciate your design approach to quilting. I watch your content because it really infuses a lot of joy back into the process that I find curated commercial fabrics and color ways remove. It’s the fabric that I love and the hunt for just the right color or pattern is exhilarating. Love what you do!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much, Cindy! ❤️

[@djeoutdoors]

I recently visited my favorite resale shop and found 11 men’s 3X shirts very high end, navy chex, pink chex, yellow with blue dolphin, red, lime green, avocado, black, etc. They were all starched and ironed. $3.50 each. I was giddy after this find. ❤

[@diannenaworensky6698]

Great find !!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What a great score!!

[@sherrypeck4062]

I LOVE TO DESTRUCT! It’s relaxing and I’m excited because it’s a new few of a kind fabric that is a little more unique and special! Go figure….I love it!❤❤❤

[@ecoquilting7077]

One thing I love is that by washing, drying on hot, then ironing at the time of cutting, the gleaned fabric had passed every test and I know it won't let me down.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

same here!

[@mysticmaven6261]

Thank-you Cathy for your contribution to the quilt world!!! Just when I thought I knew it all . . . 😆 Love you, Love your channel ❤❤❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Traci Lynn! ❤️ 🥰

[@bonnieh2123]

I use the seams and the little hems at the bottom of the shirts as ribbon for wrapping presents. Looks good with recycled papers or paper bags or even material.

[@auntdello5286]

Great idea!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I do this too, Bonnie! 🤓❤️

[@conniewhitten8660]

I cut up the strip of fabric for the buttons and holes to use as leaders and Enders. It’s the perfect thickness 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What a clever use of the button and buttonhole placket! 🤓❤️

[@bbymks5]

You (anyone) can make one of those confetti fabrics to make a pouch/bag/whatever with the scrappy scraps. Fusible interfacing, sprinkle the straps, iron and quilt tulle on top to keep it all together.

[@KristinaHoneyHavenFarm]

I never use curated fabric lots. Part of the thrill for me is curating the fabrics I want to pair for a quilt, but I know that other people find choosing the fabrics that way tedious. I mostly prefer scrap quilts, so even choosing which bits of fabric to use in those is fun. A lot of my sewing has been garments, so I get those small, oddly shaped pieces. Ah, just thinking about all that mixing and matching just now has been fun!

[@margaretlyons8764]

My husband and I have recently retired, this is our 2nd year. He revamped a bedroom into a sewing quilting room for me. I hand bought random so called “ eye candy” for years ever so often when I was working. But I wanted to start making quilts for my family. And I thought how am I going to afford that? I come upon your utube videos and what do you know! I started going to Goodwills! I love buying shirts and breaking them down. First quilt is called “Ocean Waves”. I am using different color blues and a little green if it has blue with it. Thanks for time.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks for watching and commenting, Margaret! I bet your Ocean Waves quilt will be so lovely! ❤️

[@JohannaVanWinkle]

Cool! Knitting a rag rug with all of those seams! I love the quilt on your wall today....

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Johanna! ❤️

[@Denise11Schultz]

That is the Chelsi Stratton Magnolia pattern, if you want to look for more CatBird videos about it. I am practicing that design with plaid papers (scrapbooking 12x12”) before I cut my favorite plaid fabric ☺️.

[@liliangel825]

The quilt on your design wall is simply stunning, Cathy! Though I just purchase yard goods I still appreciate all your videos. Thank you-Lili

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Lili!

[@Sylvie_M]

Seam reaper! LOL Death to the seam! I use the seams to tie up my climbing plants in the garden because they are biodegradable. I'm considering using the button plackets and collars with interfacing to make grocery bags. I love that quilt behind you!! Great job! And I love your videos on Friday mornings.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much, Sylvie! ❤️

[@redparrot9489]

A part of my heart actually fluttered when you said “contra indication” 🥰🥰🥰🥰 … in other news, and ONLY because I have seen you do it many times - I am making a TEST PATCH for a quilt I am making for a dear friend. Look at you being an influence for good. 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Contraindication for the win! And I feel like "mission accomplished" because you made a test block!! There's never a bad reason to make a test block!! 😂🤓🥰

[@dianeroome972]

Hello Miss Cathy Catbird. Another excellent lesson, TY. My challenge was that I didn't think I had enough shirts to choose from to make a quilt. Well, I passed that challenge with flying colours. LOL. Now my challenge is to make a quilt, and I have to remind myself it does not need to be a masterpiece. My epitaph could say that she collected patterns and fabric but never put the two together. LOL.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Diane! But we need to work on that epitaph! Maybe just start with something small like a pillow cover or a table runner. Next thing you know you'll be in the middle of 3 quilts and planning 4 more! ❤️

[@emiishino5422]

OMG, the Gru picture is the best! Paul, you are my hero.

[@laurajones7417]

Adding vinegar to the wash from now on! I ran into one of those "wrinkle free" 100% cotton fabrics from my shirt stash in my last project, but not knowing the issues, I hadn't stripped it of the chemicals. Impossible to iron the seam! Aargh!!! Never again! And now I know better! Thanks for all this good information!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You're so welcome, Laura! 🤓😘

[@davidhatfield5714]

My opinion is that if your are a scrappy quilter, none of this really matters much. I buy shirts because I’m a frugal quilter. It’s a hobby that has become so expensive, that many of us must find ways like buying thrift shirts to continue to make quilts. I started doing this because I fell in love with vintage scrappy quilts that used shirts. In so many of my Moms quilt magazines from the 70/80’s called for shirts in their scrappy patchwork quilts. So the all mighty dollar makes “the work” involved not an issue. I would never buy stained, stinky or thin shirts.. no matter how much I like the fabric. I use my rotary cutter..why would I not. Never buy polyester shirt! After wear/lots of washings, the fabric gets those awful balls! I throw those collars, cuffs, button hole strips away, I got what I need. And finally, those shirts go straight to the washer, dryer, ironed, starched, disassembled, folded and put away. I do not allow myself to buy any more until all this is completed. I need to also say, that good cotton shirt fabrics are so different than any you find at fabric stores. I love beautiful shirts❤ (KH)

[@Denise11Schultz]

Breaking down the shirts is so satisfying. I love to handle the fabric, I learn to see blocks in the shapes by spending time with the fabric. I pin one end of seams to a sleeve board (acts like a third hand), so I can either cut with electric scissors, or seam reap. When I’m seam ripping loose fabric, no ‘third hand’, I hold the seam ripper steady, and push the seam against the blade. It works better that way, fewer blade slips, etc. Thanks for breaking the spell. Now my pile of harvested shirt fabric is steadily growing almost every day. Cutting and piecing is next (my favorite part). ☺️

[@sherryfaires7931]

I do enjoy your videos so much and love the quilts you have made! I learn a lot, too! On another website…I cannot remember which…she had basically a skeleton of a shirt hanging on a hanger. That would be a nice wall decoration above your colored pencils…not your quilt wall! She had cut away all the yardage from a shirt, but left the collar, yoke, and cuffs, connected by the seams. It was on a clothes hanger. I thought it was the neatest symbol of your website!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Sherry! ❤️ And that sounds super cool---shirt skeleton!

[@saundraweed9738]

Deconstruct quickly. Collars, cuffs, sleeves,button plackets, seams. Fold all fabric together. ( 21/2 to 3 yds per shirt ) place remaining pieces in separate containers. Use collar and cuff fabric for “crazy quilt “ style blocks or for appliqué. Use strips to tie things up or braid,etc. The small button strips are now easy to handle anytime, anywhere to remove buttons.

[@ecoquilting7077]

Mind the grainline as if it were yardage and your blocks will be nice and stable.

[@ecoquilting7077]

Thanks for this wonderful honest video! I love to find others who enjoy using cut-up garments in quilting, and some extra work is part of the game. The word "easy" is overvalued in the tutorial market, so I love that you are both encouraging and realistic about it. I love the quilts I've made, partly because the are so unique, never just a face in the crowd. Keep up the great work. I saw your vid of you standing in front of your quilt at Quiltcon, it's gorgeous! ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much, Eco Quilting!❤️

[@Mycretanlife]

I live in Greece and fabric here is quite expensive. I use mostly recycled materials. Cotton shirts, skirts, duvets and sheets. I do not use batting, I use fleece blankets or just a cotton flannel sheet and even just a cotton sheet. My shirts I buy at bazaars, like a car boot or rummage sale. I pay about a euro a shirt. I’ve made lots of Bonnie Hunters free quilt patterns. They turn out great. I usually keep my button bands on the shirts as I make quite a few cushions and I use the fronts for the backings.

[@julietierney2516]

I have used the plackets to make really cute table runners and pillows. I use the button side for the pillows. When I cut the plackets off the shirt on the button side, I leave 1/2 inch of seam allowance when I cut the placket off the shirt. I stitch the plackets together with a small zigzag stitch. The buttons fall where they may and it makes nice texture on a pillow. For table runners/placemats, I sew the button hole sides together - in stripes. I only need about 1/4 inch to put that side together. Because they have a few layers of fabric, you don't need to use any batting. You can do a similar thing with cuffs - make brick style place mats or table runners. The cuffs are tricky - because they are sometimes too worn and don't look nice. The very fact that shirt fabrics are not from "fabric lines" is a plus in my book. I don't like all that matchy-matchy. I love choosing my own fabrics!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Clever idea! 🤓 And yes, it's a plus for me too---I love choosing my own fabrics as well!❤️

[@marypray9278]

Liberty is called a “lawn“ and many dress shirts are made out of cotton lawn and are very light and soft. I haven’t gotten into shirts yet but I’m avid quilter and I absolutely love your sense of humor and pronunciations! You are a treat.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Mary!

[@Denise11Schultz]

30:30 ish: I saw in another video how you made paper templates (maybe 5” squares) and juggled them for the best fit in a sleeve, before cutting. That was very useful.

[@rebeccafreeman6623]

I got a pair of the Guggenhein scissors too, and I absolutely LOVE them! They are so sharp, and a pleasure to use. My Mother was a seamstress, and I and my siblings knew not to use her dressmaker shears for anything except fabric. (actually, it was smart not to bother them at all!) Honestly, it makes a difference having quality tools that do what they were designed to do.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Rebecca, I agree. It really does make a difference in the experience if you have quality tools that are a joy to use.❤️

[@CoraWilfinger-ix6hx]

Hi Cathy :) , so enjoy watching, and listening :) to your journey. Because of your fun, sweet and engaging sharing of shirt quilting I have added shirt collecting to add to my stash. I actually have found breaking down shirts to be very rewarding, and get excited when I find some fun shirts that are worthy of the time. Then folding and adding them to my stash. I organize by color, so I never tire of adding to that! I have commented a number of times, and am the one who lives in northern Wisconsin, lol not a lot of colourful shirts, but great solid cottons, and small plaid prints, which are always welcome! See you next time

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Hi Cora! Thank you so much for your sweet comment-I’m so glad to have you along this quilting and YT journey with me!❤️ I find myself buying more solid shirts than prints these days-they are just so easy to use and often provide that great contrast or the perfect color that I was missing!❤️

[@nancymathisen9707]

❤ Sometimes crafting programs can use things like the buttons and seams if they’re not otherwise wanted. The thrift shop might have a list of items that they take.

[@ecoquilting7077]

I lay out the largest piece, then lay all the smaller pieces out on top, fold it into a bundle with one of the seams. I save a small piece to tuck into the tied seam so I can feel both sides as I look at my bundles and dream up ideas. The bundles are cute, but I always open them up and confirm what's in there before I commit it to a job in a quilt.

[@scrappyquilter102]

After cutting and pressing I fold all the bits and bobs, sleeves, front plackets, collars and cuffs (if I keep them ) - into the big back piece. I do it to keep it all together. Once I have "used" a shirt fabric, I will often pin all the leftover scraps together to keep my scraps organized. Quite helpful for the next time (usually the last time) I use them. If it smells or is stained in the store I leave it there.

[@ragdollyally]

I use the seams as tie-ups for the shirt when it’s folded into charm square sized bundles. It works beautifully.

[@staciefreeman4396]

Ok, I will donate them back so I will have less work. I appreciate you and all the help Paul gives along the way as well.

[@genier7829]

With respect to the not enough issue: I once loved a fabric from a Kohl's shirt. I was able to fins another on Poshmark really cheaply, and the shipping was still worth getting more fabric.

[@sheann283]

I use ammonia for greasy stains and odor remover. Arm and hammer super washing soda also helps to remove residue from fabric softeners.

[@sharoncurrah2252]

I can strip a shirt down quite quickly, I get a huge kick out of using and giving fabric a whole new life x

[@Making-Beth-Gain]

I gasped out loud when I saw your totes sorted with seams and collars and your buttons organized by color! LOVE it love it love it. You need tiny little jars for all the buttons.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I DO need tiny little jars for all the buttons!❤️

[@saraborisch5343]

I love to break down shirts and fine it very relaxing. I also do a bunch of one task at a time like you do. It's a wonderful thing to do outside sitting on my porch in the warmer months......the fuzz blows away!

[@juliasander1680]

I love collecting buttons but have been wondering what to do with the seams! I think I’ll get a large (really large) crochet hook & make a rug too! Great idea!

[@staciefreeman4396]

Great video, Cathy, so helpful. You always make me feel inspired to say Yes to the challenge!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Stacie! ❤️

[@staciefreeman4396]

Hello Cathy, Happy belated Mother's Day. I am wondering if you have a criteria for what ratio of cotton/polyester you believe will work better for quilt piecing. I have some lovely shirts that are a blend. I am torn about donating them back, but I just thought I would ask you 1st. Thanks!

[@tinkerbell9399]

Hi Cathy. Really enjoyed this video. Looking at trying English Paper Piecing, and think shirts might be the way forward! Lots of lovely info, and food for thought! Thanks for sharing. Greetings from (finally!) a sunny UK❤️🇬🇧

[@mj-gs3vo]

I like the weight of shirts it's very much like Tana Lawn with out the huge price tag.and sews up so well in EPP.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Tink! I have a friend using shirts for EPP and it is working beautifully for her! ❤️

[@TheQuiltingLunchLady]

The curated bundle of fabrics is always so fun to buy, but then when I go to use them, they are not right!! I always end up curating my own bundle adding and subtracting from the original bundle. It gives me more fabric in the end though to use somewhere else!!! Thanks again for a very good video and for a pleasant and joy inducing way to start my day!!! Have a great weekend Cathy!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Christine! ❤️ And I agree--sometimes I think a fabric bundle is sooooo pretty but unless I follow a quilt pattern designer's pattern to a T with a bundle curated for that exact purpose (which I never do), it ends up getting broken up and used in other quilts anyway! I've only bought one fabric bundle, but I've salivated at so many! lol!

[@TheRozylass]

I curate my own too because I'm using up fabric from garment sewing, yard sale/thrift store finds, mystery bundles, and shirts! The challenge is more fun to me and I can control the distribution of color value better. I don't particularly like the matchy-matchiness of designer lines, but that's just me.

[@ecoquilting7077]

I sometimes think the bundles provide a way for them to get rid of slow sellers, given that many pre-cut packs are 30% firmly in the "ugly", and "curated" feels like a stretch. I'll trust my own eye and save 100 bucks or more per quilt.

[@deborahdewar1353]

Now that’s what I do too….all the buttons first! I do this before they go in the stash so that when I am ready it’s a quick breakdown and off I go. Thank you C&P for another great tea-break. Love from Oz 🇦🇺xxx

[@dianacurrao8348]

It’s going to be beautiful! I agree with all your fabric choices!

[@Making-Beth-Gain]

Love how you have put all the good tips in this one video Cathy! I have been sharing your channel in the Young and millennial Quilt Group and everyone seems really excited at the possibilities that shirts give us thrifty quilters … you’re the best!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Beth! ❤️ It is so important to me to talk about all the aspects of using thrifted fabric--including the challenges!

[@AnnetteSwintGamble]

I have heard you comment several times about the difficulty creasing some fabrics, especially polycotton. My mother always kept a spray bottle of half white vinegar and half water on her ironing board. Spray this on the fabric. Use a dry iron and press. This will put a crease in almost any fabric. My mother used it especially on slacks whose crease had all but disappeared. I have used her trick for years. No, the white vinegar doesn't stain the fabric. You will be amazed at the crease.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks for the suggestion, Annette!

[@marshawallace7522]

So true, batching the shirt breakdown progress helps and can be therapeutic. I'm looking forward to seeing a video on uing cast-offs. Great tips on how to eliminate stains and odors. Paul is a master of inserts in the videos and I chuckle when I see 'CAINT' on the screen. I grew up in central IN and our cousins from northern IN teased us about our southern accents.

[@imogenethomas1138]

Hi Cathy, happy Mother’s Day! I can get almost any stain out with a drop of blue Dawn, and sometimes a couple drops of hydrogen peroxide. I’ve had great luck finding out of print fabric that I love on Etsy and EBay. I’m always on the hunt for vintage Mary Engelbreit!

[@christinahall3318]

This was an amazingly informative time! Thank you so much. Sew On Sis!

[@favor8favors]

I have found that Baking Soda, Pine Sol, or Pine Allen are a wonder for removing those tough odors. I cant tell you how many times I have had a strong smell in a shirt that remained after I washed it. I have thrown them back in the washer with a laundry pod or two, about a 1/4 cup of baking soda and about 1 cup of Pine Sol and OH MY GOODNESS!! And my bonus, my washer is also now clean and also smells fabulous. I have started using the Pine Sol every couple months alone to just clean my washing machine.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What a great idea, Kelli! I'll have to try that! 🤓👍🏻

[@ecoquilting7077]

Those really soft thin cottons from India becone a stable, buttery dream when applied to Pellon 101!

[@davidhatfield5714]

But that’s an added expense and another step. I just pass on those. (KH)

[@ecoquilting7077]

@@davidhatfield5714 But! Buttery dream! 🥳

[@johnbarnby]

So informative, as always. You've become such an authority in a relatively short time. Amazing! I see in book in your future..

[@juliemillar4394]

I agree with you Cathy. I love curating my fabrics/shirts

[@robincollins4687]

My mom was a professional seamstress ..While she tried, she didn't have the time/patience/knowledge to teach me in the BEST methods for Me. But she did instill in me 2 cardinal rules. ALWAYS pre-wash your fabric & iron ALL seams flat. My Home Ec. teacher got me over my challenges ( as a beginner), but I was still fearful of any fabric that wasn't 100% Cotton. Since Mom has passed, I am now braver/crazier enough to attempt new challenges & fabrics. Thrifted fabric allows me to try new things & not be destroyed mentally & emotionally if the project fails. My next challenge is a quilt, since I have the fabrics/pallet but I'm fearful of the hand quilting. Please offer any advice and prayers. It's for my son who recently went through major heart surgery.

[@keves11]

Ty for sharing. ❤ your teaching style.. how you explain. I'm now wanting to acquire linen and cotton men's shirts, curtain panels etc. to make a quilt vs buying material from the quilt store.. 🇨🇦 so the costs are through the roof everywhere. I'm so grateful for your channel.

[@danielletaylor994]

I look forward to your video every Friday! I don’t use men’s shirts but I love seeing what you do. I look forward to the video about the quilt on your wall! ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Danielle! ❤️

[@lauriepearsey4607]

Odoban (sp?)does wonders as well

[@marilynnjefferson8525]

Yipes! I’m getting ready to use shirts for the first time. I’ve quilted for years. Two friends’ husbands died recently died and they want quilts from their shirts. I ready for the challenge. You’ve just told me a lot of challenges I must meet. So glad I’ve found your videos. I’ll be looking for one showing you actually breaking down a shirt.

[@robemega]

I just roughly cut the shirt up in a minute or two with a rotary cutter, never by hand. Slice off the sleeves, slice the side seams, collar, front buttoned area, shoulders. Don’t overthink it or make it difficult. Don’t stress about waste but cut the shirt up in squares or strips as you want. I cut mine in 6” squares and adapted a pattern so I used those squares to make a four patch and then went on from there.

[@christinesoule9505]

I started my sewing journey making doll clothes so have always had odd shaped remnants. The biggest reason for me to make quilts was to use up all the scrap fabric I have left over.So I am thrilled to find your channel with all your insight and inspiration. I found a large duvet cover I want to use for backing but it is sooooo heavily scented, even washing with vinegar did not remove all the sent. I’m going to order the oder remover you mentioned to see if that does the trick. Thanks so much!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You are so welcome! ❤️ Thanks for watching and good luck on getting the scent out of your duvet cover!

[@jmurphy7192]

We have a local charity that collects “softs” and is able to sell their collections by the pound. So, I don’t feel guilty about any scraps from my shirts. I just collect the scraps until I have a big bag to donate!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

How wonderful!

[@rogerpeggywheat1630]

I suppose the jar of white buttons makes sense, but I keep all the buttons from one shirt in a small zip baggie. They are more likely to be re-used if matching buttons don't need to be hunted down from a mixed jar.

[@ecoquilting7077]

I work with cut-up clothes, love it! If you take the time to use the small piecex for small things, you'll be amazed at how much the big pieces will do for borders and strip piecing! Another inverstment in time, but very satisfying to find you have enough of that one unicorn shirt to fulfill your vision.

[@carleneeagleman8506]

Thank you so very much for all your information. So appreciated 🩵

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You are so welcome, Carlene! ❤️

[@debbiewood7718]

One thing I have done with my cuffs is give them to the coffee bar at my church to use as cozies. The jury is still out how successful they are.

[@michellestrange4716]

I love breaking down shirts.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too! ❤️

[@juliewilson1867]

@juliewilson1867 0 seconds ago I just finished my first “ shirt” quilt, inspired by you. What I noticed was how very soft is. I posted it to my brother-in- law as I commandeered some of his old shirts. I am sure I will make another one!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! That's wonderful! ❤️

[@rerny1530]

i love doing this!! Very relaxing.i took some of my husband’s old shirts and am making a king size quilt right now…I have made other items from shirts as well.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too. (obviously) There's just something about it that is appealing to me!

[@lauracurnan3255]

Thank you. All the don'ts... can be worked around. . Thank you for the help.to over come them. I have a rubbermaid tub, prob 30 shirts maybe more. Most broken down. Nothing finished yet. See you next week. HUGS from Tampa.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I agree--challenges almost always have a workaround! Hugs from Bham! 😘

[@iknitb4itwaship33]

Hi Cathy - I’m sure I’m not the only person who has used my rotary cutter to go through seams of shirts when breaking them down. Also works great for removing buttons. It requires me to sit at a table surface to do break everything down, as the rotary cutter is turned on its side to get under the button to get to the threads, and to the threads in the seam. Also, when removing pockets , I get under the pocket with the rotary cutter, starting at the bottom corner, then work up to the top where it is reinforced heavily. I find it easier to get through all the extra stitching. Curious if you have tried the rotary cutter in this way.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I don't use my rotary cutter at all to break down shirts--I've gotten used to breaking them down with scissors and a seam ripper, I guess!

[@iknitb4itwaship33]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I am even able to easily salvage the hems without too much effort. I have also found that the side seams are chain stitched, and if I work from the correct end of the chain, I can unravel the stitching just like I unravel a crochet chain. Sometimes this takes a bit more time than just cutting, but the full width of fabric is sometimes worth it. So is the “vrrrump” when the cuff to hem is removed in one single pull of the threaded chain! It makes me smile knowing I saved it all. Is this also something you have discovered?

[@margaretmlydon6910]

Love your sound effects 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Margaret! 😂❤️

[@klbaustian]

Awesome ! I already use vinegar as a “fabric softener” in all my laundry but the odorklenz recommendation had me stop the video and order it right away. Thank you Cathy!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You are so welcome! ❤️

[@pegpage8618]

I can’t wait for your video(s) on how to use buttons, cuffs, collars and seams. What a great idea. For those of us that like to “up-cycle “ this will be perfect. Thanks for the ideas on washing shirts - I wonder if I can wash a shirt in vinegar after I’ve cut it apart? I think I can because the shirts don’t seem to be as loosely woven as quilting fabric. 🤔 I may try it on one of my cut up shirts as I’d really like to get all of the “wrinkle free” product out of the shirt.

[@jennjennedington279]

So, I recently did this. I put a cut up shirt that I just didn’t pay enough attention to while deconstructing into a mesh bag and into the wash with vinegar. Came out GREAT and very little fraying which is what I was concerned about.

[@marijkeschellenbach2680]

This was GOOD!!!!!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Marijke! ❤️

[@silver_csmith]

🥰👍🏻thank you!

[@pamelasherman1314]

Such good information! Thanks🤗

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Pamela! ❤️

[@juliaraley9563]

I find the breaking down of shorts to be therapeutic. I have been collecting all school year, my time off this summer I will be having a blast while it’s too hot to do anything else! Upstate, SC

[@davidhatfield5714]

I’m with you..Midstate SC😂 Have fun! (KH)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I do too! As long as I don't get too many to do at one time! 😱

[@georgiadabinett6312]

That's okay. I still love you. Thanks for the video Cathy.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

😂❤️🤓 You're welcome, Georgia.😊

[@neselain]

Thank you for saying ravel. Unravel is like ain’t, it is so overused that it was added to the dictionary. 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You're welcome! I've never understood why people say "unravel" to mean "ravel!"

[@ecoquilting7077]

If you have a nice piece with one stain, just circle the stain with a pen so you don't miss it later.

[@catlestocai3924]

More people should be like this

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww thanks!

[@pamelafowler4406]

Buttons can be donated to schools for art projects. Children add them to handmade cards ir make picture s from them

[@shannoneaster9311]

👍🏼👍🏼❤️Once again, a very informative and helpful video. And wait until you see how many buttons you’ll end up with after doing this for decades! Ask me how I know! 😂🤣

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Shannon! ❤️ Decades-long-button-collecting: I can only imagine!

[@carolgentry-ob8zv]

Such wonderful information in your videos Thank you I sure love the quilt behind you on the wall Can you please tell me where you got the pattern from?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Carol! The quilt behind me is the Magnolia Quilt by Chelsi Stratton...you can find the pattern on Etsy. :)

[@jennypare9564]

Thanks again for another wonderful , informative video!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You are so welcome! Thanks for watching! ❤️

[@lorriescott8775]

Corduroy was so popular when I was a child. I miss it! I wonder if corduroy would pair nicely with plaids, and flannel? So soft!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I miss it too, Lorrie! I bet it would---and yes, can you imagine how soft and cozy a flannel and corduroy quilt would be?! 😍

[@lorriescott8775]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts absolutely! Now I need corduroy!

[@valerievesper9216]

I find the best thing for getting rid of odors is a sanitizer. Both Clorox and Lysol make laundry sanitizers. Haven’t tried the Odorklens but the sanitizer has worked for me on really bad odors from an elderly incontinent relative and synthetic athletic wear that never came clean otherwise.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Great suggestion---especially since both Chlorox and Lysol are available in stores! 🤓👍🏻❤️

[@robynbecker3443]

Can you share the quilt pattern on the quilt on your wall? Seems like a great pattern for individual shirts. Thanks for another great video

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It's the Magnolia quilt by Chelsi Stratton. And I agree--it's such a great quilt pattern for shirts that I did a video on it! 😘 kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGO9ipWNrbqJmbcsi=tWIgY-VrXTRDqU2z

[@jmc-xp6ml]

I enjoy breaking down the shirts. I tossed all the seams though.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too! I used to, and then I decided to knit a rag rug with them and now I keep them! 😂

[@annerankin1191]

Always love the sound effects you make!!!! Great video! XOX

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Anne! ❤️

[@emiishino5422]

I used to work with a lady named Kathy Martin so every time you say your name it makes me smile. #Ihavealotofquestions Do you only buy 100% natural fiber shirts? Do you have trouble finding said shirts? Have you tried washing soda for stains and odors? I find it also works really well.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I basically only buy 100% cotton shirts, 100% linen or linen-cotton blends. I generally don't have trouble finding 100% natural fiber shirts. 🤓👍🏻 I haven't tried washing soda yet!

[@Swrqltr]

I have several family members who wear dress shirts and always lose buttons. I save those buttons to match my family’s missing buttons

[@DianaSmithMB]

I am getting ready to do my first shirt quilt. Most of the shirts I got came from unclaimed shirts for a cleaners. So they have be washed and starched and pressed. would you still wash them again.

[@jennjennedington279]

I sure would to get the chemicals out. Vinegar to the rescue here.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I do wash them for exactly the reason Jennifer commented, and also so that they behave and feel more like the quilting cottons that we're used to!

[@lauriemarks6634]

Cathy, do you somehow label or separate your types of fabrics, such as cotton/poly blends? I would forget what they were after they had been broken down… Because I forget things.🤣🙄😬

[@jeffconniestewart1862]

I cut a piece of the fabric from the collar or cuff and sew the fabric content label to it. All of the sample fabrics are pinned together with a large safety pin or diaper pin for future reference.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Laurie, I don't actually label them; I've handled so many shirts that I can usually tell by feel (I do keep my linen separate now.)

[@ReneeCS82]

Thank you for another informative video Cathy! What is your strategy when mixing shirts (pre-washed & shrunk) with quilting cottons (not pre-shrunk). Do you pre-wash in that case? My next quilt will be a mix, and since hand-piecing is such a time investment - I really don't want to get it wrong!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Renee! ❤️ I don't pre-wash quilting cottons, even if I'm using shirts with them, and so far I haven't had any problems with shrinkage. If you're using linen or flannel off the bolt, it would probably be wise to prewash because they do shrink! (or so I've been told! 😂)

[@debrablanson2288]

❤❤❤❤ my Guggenheims 😊