Do you have a bunch of old sports jerseys taking up space in your closet? Instead of letting them collect dust, why not put them to good use?
The most creative ways to upcycle your old sports jerseys include making a cozy blanket, converting it into a pillowcase, or creating a shoulder bag. You can also choose to auction or donate your old jerseys.
In this article, I’ll explain 25 fun and creative ways to use old sports jerseys. Whether you are looking for a new project or want to find a way to show your team spirit, we have you covered.
1. Make a Cozy Blanket
Sports jerseys make great blankets. All you need to do is sew two together with the right side of each jersey facing inwards, and then turn it inside out so that the right sides are now on the outside. You can add batting or fleece if you’d like to create a thicker blanket.
2. Use It as a Pillowcase
If you don’t have time to make a blanket, you can easily turn your jersey into a pillowcase. Just follow the same instructions from above, but instead of adding batting or fleece, sew up three sides and then insert your favorite pillow.
3. Create a Fun Tote Bag
Like the blanket and pillowcase, you can make a tote bag with just two jerseys. All you need is a pair of scissors, some pins, and a piece of thread. Cut off the sleeves and neckline of your jersey, then pin and sew the two together.
4. Make an Over-the-Shoulder Bag
If you’d prefer a trendy shoulder bag instead of a tote, all you have to do is add straps! Cut off the bottom of your jersey, then cut four straps from the remaining fabric (two for each side). Finally, attach them securely in place using strong stitches or rivets.
5. Decorate a Hat or Visor
You can easily transform an old sports jersey into the perfect accessory for any occasion. With a bit of imagination and creativity, anyone can jazz up an old baseball cap or visor with the remnants of their beloved sports apparel.
Start by cutting up pieces of your jersey into sections that are approximately the same size.
Attach the cut pieces onto your hat/visor using fabric glue, making sure to place them around evenly in whatever pattern you choose. Trim any excess fabric away and voila! You now own a unique piece of fan gear that you made yourself.
6. Put Together a Patchwork Quilt
If you have several jerseys lying around, patchwork quilts are the perfect way to repurpose them.
It’s amazing how a combination of all the materials from their old uniforms can create something new and exciting. This could be done by piecing each jersey shape together using a simple patchwork technique. This is relatively straightforward for anyone with even intermediate sewing skills.
The colors and patterns make for great accent pieces in any room or event decoration that pays homage to your favorite teams. Not only are these quilts eye-catching conversation starters, but they also serve as comfortable reminders of a much-loved sport. Your patchwork quilt is sure to liven up any home and fill it with happy memories of fandom gone by.
7. Make a Cool Wall Hanging
This project will not only help display your favorite teams and players, but it can also be a creative outlet to express yourself.
You can use tacks, pins, needles, and thread to attach the jersey or jerseys securely to the wall. Alternatively, you could affix textured felt or batting fabric underneath for an even more creative touch.
Depending on your preference, either hang the jerseys as-is or cut off the seams and make different shapes to patch together in your unique design. No matter how you choose to do it, this fun activity is sure to leave you with a stunning piece of art that any true sports fan would be proud of.
8. Construct a Handbag
If you are feeling crafty, try making a handbag out of your old jersey. Just cut out two rectangles from the body of the jersey and sew them together. Add straps and any other decorations you would like; then turn it inside out to hide all of your stitching.
9. Create an Upcycled T-Shirt Quilt
Create an upcycled t-shirt quilt with your favorite sports jerseys. This project is simple, fun, and has the perfect balance of memorabilia and decoration. Plus, you get bragging rights for being creative enough to do something special with that pile of old jerseys.
Start by cutting each shirt into small squares. Sew together the squares to create a lap-sized quilt big enough for any couch or bed. For some design inspiration, experiment with unique appliqué shapes such as stars and hearts—or just stick to plain square patches.
Finally, give your quilt a professional look with a soft batting material in between the patches and liners around the edges. In no time your cozy masterpiece will be ready to use or gift.
10. Use It as a Pillow
Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for an economical way to spruce up your décor, using an old sports jersey as a pillow is an easy and creative way to refresh the look of your living space.
Cut out different parts of the jersey and add batting or stuffing to make both pillows for a bed or accent pillows for seating areas.
For extra flair, add tassels and extra details like embroidery to show off team logos and lettering. Best of all, this project is inexpensive and perfect for those who want affordably stylish accessories.
11. Transform It Into Curtains
Don’t be afraid to get creative –– if you want to show off your team spirit, why not use sports jerseys to decorate your windows? You can even add grommets to the top of your jersey and use curtain rods for a truly unique look.
12. Frame It on Your Wall
Everyone loves a standout piece in their home, and what better way to achieve that than turning your old sports jersey into wall art? Framing them is a great way to keep your jerseys safe while showing off the pride of your favorite teams.
First, find a frame that fits the size of the jersey—the bigger the frame, the bolder statement it’ll make on your wall. Most framing stores offer custom frames for jerseys too.
Add some mounting materials before slipping in the jersey for a final touch. Now all that’s left is to hang it up and put it on display for everyone to see.
Get creative with plaques, textiles, and other memorabilia to create an even more personalized experience. It’s time to start framing your old sports jerseys and give any space an unforgettable display.
13. Auction and Make Some Money
If you have any old sports jerseys that are collecting dust in your closet or basement, a great way to put them to use is to sell them at an auction. You never know what people might be willing to pay for something that could hold sentimental value.
Whether it’s a vintage jersey from your favorite team or one with your favorite player’s name on it, even the most ordinary items can spark competitive bidding.
An auction is also a great place to find out how much your old jersey is worth, making it possible to make some nice money if someone truly values it. So don’t let that collectible jersey linger any longer – turn it into profit and get the most out of something special.
14. Donate to a Good Cause
Donating it to a good cause is one of the best things you can do! Not only does this keep the jersey from occupying precious storage space, but it also benefits those in need.
Charitable organizations often accept donations of sports jerseys to support their cause—e.g., giving money to those in poverty or providing disaster relief.
It’s also a great way to give back to communities, especially if the organization sends the jersey to a person or group who will wear and appreciate it. It would bring a lot of joy and warmth knowing that your jersey is now being put to good use and helping someone else out.
15. Wear It Strictly for Sporting Events
Wearing your favorite sports jersey to the game is a matter of pride and affiliation, and it can be an awesome way to show support for your team.
Not only that, but old sports jerseys can be very comfortable and eye-catching when worn at a game or in public. Plus, you’ll be helping to reduce textile waste by reusing what was once cast aside.
So, if you have an old jersey lying around or want to buy one second-hand, try wearing it strictly for sporting events – you won’t regret it!
16. Gift It to a Friend or Family Member
Why not bring a little nostalgia and joy to your family and friends? Gifting old sports jerseys can be one of the best ways to do it.
Regardless of whether your friend or family member is a big fan of the sport or team, receiving an old jersey as a gift will surely bring them memories of their favorite athletes and times spent watching games.
Perfect as a birthday present or holiday surprise, giving away an old sports jersey can mean so much more than just a piece of fabric. It’s a gesture filled with heartfelt emotion, which is why it makes for such an amazing gift.
17. Store Them
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of finding that old sports jersey tucked away in the back of your closet. You probably wore it when you cheered on your team back in the day, but now it might be taking up important space. One of the best things to do with old sports jerseys is to store them.
Whether you organize them in neat stacks or hang them all up on a designated wall, these cherished memories are worth preserving. With proper storing—and a safe place out of reach from any potential spills or stains—an aging sports jersey can last a lifetime.
18. Wear Them Out
Sporting events are great occasions to show our team spirit, and nothing shows it better than wearing a fan jersey.
While there may be newer styles available, donning an old sports jersey has never gone out of style. Many jerseys become even more valuable with age and what’s more vintage-look than sporting the gear associated with a long-gone era?
Its unique design is sure to draw attention and make you stand out from the crowd, not to mention that it’s much more comfortable than buying new apparel every season. Even after years of wear and tear, an old sports jersey remains stylish—what a great way to show your fandom.
19. Customize a Shirt
Have you thought about customizing old jerseys into fitted or oversized T-shirts? Think of the endless possibilities!
From creating tennis shirts out of basketball jerseys or crafting a half-zip hoodie from your beloved soccer kit, not only will you extend life and love into something you care about but you’ll also create a one-of-a-kind street-style look.
20. Turn Them Into a Table Runner
If you’re looking for a creative way to upcycle old sports jerseys, turning them into a table runner is a great idea. This fun project also lets you bring the family together with everyone contributing towards it.
Start by cutting the jersey down to create several long strips, and then sew them together using embroidery thread.
With the right pattern and color choice, you’ll end up with an eye-catching table runner that’ll add a personal touch of style to any home or office you place it in.
21. Make a Flag Out of It
It’s an easy, fun way to show off your favorite teams, events, or memories.
To get started all you need is:
- Jersey
- Scissors
- Adhesive tape (or glue)
- A pole or wooden stick for your flag to hang from
The steps:
- Cut the jersey into strips of equal sizes depending on the size of your flag.
- Cut out a triangle as the top of the flag and attach it to each end of your sticks with adhesive tape or glue.
- Attach the strips from longest to shortest onto the stick, creating a beautiful piece of art that expresses who you are.
Enjoy displaying in your home and don’t forget to invite over some friends so they can admire your crafty DIY project.
22. Make a Lampshade Out of Them
If you can’t bring yourself to part with an old sports jersey, why not find a creative way to keep it around? Making a lampshade out of them is easier than you might think.
All you need is some fabric stiffener and a few tools.Cut the fabric into strips, dip them in the glue, shape them over a form, and let it dry overnight. Once done, you’ll have your very own unique lampshade that will light up any room – plus, it’s made from one of your favorite jerseys!
23. Recycle Them
Recycling old sports jerseys not only helps with environmental sustainability but can also do a lot of good for your local community. The fibers are often quite valuable, so you can donate them to a textile recycling program and help support those who are in need.
In addition, some programs may offer rewards if you donate your jerseys! It is always a good idea to check beforehand just in case.
Recycling your old sports jerseys is an easy choice that supports the environment and various communities around you –– so why not make it a part of your routine?
24. Trade Them With Friends
Trading old sports jerseys with friends is one of the best ways to pass on the memories you shared watching those teams together. Swapping jerseys not only helps in sharing these great times but also lets you show off their new collection.
Plus, it’s an economical way to equip yourself with your favorite team’s kits without breaking the bank; so it’s a win-win situation for everyone involved. Let your mates know that you’re open to trading and they can be sure of getting something you no longer need — like old sports jerseys.
25. Create a sports-themed wreath for your front door
Decorating your front door with an old sports jersey may seem daunting. However, creating a sports-themed wreath can be simple and affordable. All you need is an old jersey, some scissors, glue, a ring of grapevine, and decorations such as artificial flowers or leaves.
Be sure to mix up the colors from different jerseys, if possible! Once finished, you’ll have created an endearing sports-themed wreath for your front door that won’t break the bank.
