Vintage linens such as vintage tablecloths, sheets, and pillowcases are dangerously easy to collect and full of upcycling possibilities. While other vintage items have become more and more scarce at thrift stores, old linens can still be found fairly easily.
It should come as no surprise that I, too, have made a number of projects for my blog that use vintage linens. I’ve upcycled one of my vintage sheets into a DIY shower curtain…
I’ve also used some vintage pillowcases to make half aprons or waist aprons for vendors to use at craft fairs and yard sales.
And while vintage linens naturally lend themselves to sewing projects, I’ve used them in non-sewing projects as well. Such as creating this magnetic memo board for my home office.
At the end of the day, there really are endless possibilities for repurposing those vintage tablecloths and vintage tea towels that you’ve been hoarding in your craft room. From creating things to wear, items to use around the house, or something pretty to add cottage style charm to your home.
Perhaps the best part about vintage linens is that you (usually) get a ton of fabric for very little cost if you find it at a thrift store. Tablecloths and sheets are wide and long, for just a few dollars.
And gorgeously embroidered pieces that took someone countless hours to create? They go for just a handful of coins at most thrifts. When it comes to craft supplies, vintage linens get you a LOT of bang for your buck.
So, I gathered all sorts of repurposing projects and upcycling ideas to inspire you to get out your vintage linens for some craft projects!
Repurposing Projects for Vintage Linens
So many upcycling projects, so little time. But those ideas are awfully tempting aren’t they? And let me guess, you have PLENTY of vintage linens in your craft stash to work with.
I know I do, so I better get busy! Even the smallest scraps have potential, that’s for sure- as evidenced here on my vintage teapot pin cushion!
The potential application for vintage linens is really, truly endless. From wearable accessories, to fun little crafts, to home decor, like these framed embroidery pieces.
I’m also super excited to announce that my first book is now available! If you love working with flannel or fabric crafts in general (sewing and non-sewing), then you will LOVE “Crafting with Flannel”!
Speaking of vintage linens, if you enjoyed these upcycling ideas, then you may also appreciate some repurposing inspiration for your vintage doilies, too!
Craft on!
S
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Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
Is there any projects for reusing found bird feathers?
I’ve used feathers in a couple of projects. However, I purchased already-cleaned feathers that came from eco-farms and were humanely collected as naturally molted feathers. https://www.sadieseasongoods.com/tag/crafting-with-feathers/
I love using vintage linens! I made my patio umbrella out of vintage linens! https://www.littlevintagecottage.com/2019/07/how-to-diy-patio-umbrella-cover.html
Thank you for including my plastic bag holders in your roundup!
Tania
Oh my gosh!!!! That is SO AMAZING…I had to add it to the round up. I hope that’s ok!
Great round ups, Sarah! Thanks for including my Vintage Fabric Wreath! Pinned and Shared!
It’s just the cutest, Lora- I hope I sent a few clicks your way!!
As a kid, I remember my mother buying a gathered skirt for 10 cents at a rummage sale; she got 2 pillowcases from it. We had colored linens WAY before they were popular (I’m 68 now!). My mom had that set of sheets you used for the apron–used 2 sheets to make a quilt cover, then made pillowcases to go with the sheets!