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Saturday, September 6, 2014

~Old Bedsheets: the Re-possibilities~

They're hiding in the backs of closets,
the bottoms of drawers, and even
in storage bins in the garage and under beds.
Old bedsheets!
We keep them - just in case.
In case of what?
If you have a small store of these treasures,
here are just a few ways to bring them back
to usefulness.

*If you are a hunter or butcher your own meat,
you can fold them in half then sew the bottom and
up one side and you have a great game-bag.

*Cut or tear them into even squares and use as 
napkins, paper towels, or handkerchiefs.
(I really don't like using or paying for paper products.)

*Tear into strips and make braided rugs.
(I know, but if I didn't include it on the list,
someone would have yelled at me:)

*Cut small circles and use to top canned goods
when given as gifts - tie with jute or raffia.

*Make jelly bags (for juicing fruits)

*Use a strip as ribbon and tie up a present.

*Cut or tear into strips and make a rope.
You can use one strip and with only your fingers
make a long chain - like you are crochetting.
Start with a half hitch - like you are going to tie your shoes.
Then pull long strip through to make a new loop - if you pull 
from the wrong direction, it will just untie.  You'll get it:)
Reach through with thumb and index finger.
 Pull through.
Keep on going.
This would be about a 2" wide strip since I used
a 1" strip doubled over.
The diameter of the 'rope' is probably about 5/8".
If you want a heavier rope, just use wider strips.

*******
A couple other notes:
I prefer all cotton sheets.
They might not last quite as long, but neither are they 
made out of plastic (polyester.)

All cotton can be dyed other colors if you have a light color.

I didn't include quilt-making above, because if they are worn,
the integrity of the fabric might not be what I would 
want to use in a quilt that I put a lot of work into.
If the fabric is in good condition, by all means,
use it in a quilt.

Lastly, don't use them as shop rags - that's what 
old teeshirts are for.  Sheets have too many better options.
Old teeshirts aren't good for much else.

I'm sure there are other things,
but hopefully this gets your 'ideas sector' moving.

Until next time,
Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches

12 comments:

  1. Good re-purp ideas! I do. not. like. braiding. rugs., but I do enjoy crocheting them so why I never thought to tear up some of my not-used-anymore sheets I really don't know. Thanks for the tip.
    Hope you're having a great weekend!

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    Replies
    1. That is too funny. My mom has the same reaction to braided rugs though she has made several crochetted rugs. It's not the rugs she dislikes but the braiding:)

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  2. not having much imagination mine tend to be used as dusters etc and show cleaning cloths though do not have any left at the moment

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  3. What a nice list. :] Sets me to dreaming... Have you ever used old sheets for muslin/"mock-up"s, or to cut sewing patterns from? They're nice to use when you know you'll want to use a particular patter over and over (doesn't wear out & tear like paper gauze). :] I saw your link over at the Art of Homemaking Mondays. :] (I'll pin it to my Simple Living pintrest board.)

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    Replies
    1. I haven't, but I know I should as I have a couple patterns that have been taped up several times:)
      Have a beautiful Tuesday.

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  4. Great ideas :)
    I love repurposing items !

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  5. Old sheets are gold! I usually scour the Goodwills for the pretty prints and use them for yardage. I like to make cupboard curtains in my kitchen with them (and also matching runners). This allows me to redecorate on a budget :) Also, my daughter will sew skirts with them as you can get a whole set for a few dollars!

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  6. I cut them into 9" squares and use them to wash my goat's udder before milking. I love old sheets, they are so soft.
    Thank you for sharing at the HomeAcre Hop; I hope you'll join us again this Thursday.
    Kathi at Oak Hill Homestead

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    1. I featured your post at today's HomeAcre Hop. I hope you come over and take a look, and grab our Featured button if you'd like!
      Kathi at Oak Hill Homestead

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  7. Old t shirts can be used for making rag rugs too.

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  8. I like this idea! I usually cut them up into scrap rags, but I'm going to try this next! :)

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