The Easiest No-Sew Kids’ Skirt You Can Make from a Men’s T-Shirt

Turn an old men’s T-shirt into a cute no-sew skirt for kids using fabric glue, a drawstring, and a safety pin. Fast, easy, and budget-friendly.

Today we’re turning a basic men’s cotton T-shirt—yes, the one your husband hasn’t worn since 2014—into an adorable, no-sew skirt for kids.

No sewing machine.
No fancy skills.
Just fabric glue, a safety pin, and about 15 minutes.
My kind of craft.

This is the perfect weekend project when you simply want a cute, comfy skirt that costs exactly zero dollars.

Why a Men’s T-Shirt Works Perfectly

Men’s tees are roomy, soft, and usually 100% cotton—basically the holy grail for a quick DIY. Because we’re using the bottom hem of the shirt as the base of the skirt, most of the shaping is already done for you. All you’re doing is adding a simple drawstring waist so it fits your kid comfortably.

Plus? It’s stretchy, forgiving, and almost impossible to mess up. A true confidence-boosting craft.

Supplies You’ll Need

• 1 men’s 100% cotton T-shirt (size L or XL works best)
• Sharp scissors
• Permanent fabric adhesive
• Safety pin
• Ribbon, cord, or twill tape for the drawstring
• Measuring tape (optional, but helpful)

How to Make a No-Sew Skirt from a T-Shirt

1. Cut the Bottom Portion of the Shirt

Lay the shirt flat. Cut straight across under the sleeves, or as short as you want this to be—this bottom tube of fabric will become your skirt.

Tip: Save the top half for another project. Headbands, dust rags, etc.

2. Make the Drawstring Casing

Fold the top edge down about 1 inch all the way around. This fold becomes the channel where the drawstring will go.

Use permanent fabric adhesive to glue the fold in place, pressing firmly as you go. Leave a 1-inch gap unglued—this will be your opening for the drawstring.

Let the glue set according to the instructions on your adhesive (usually just a few minutes of patience).

3. Thread the Drawstring

Attach a safety pin to one end of your cord or ribbon and feed it through the casing. Work it through until it pops out the other side. Pull the ends evenly and knot them.

If the drawstring is too long, trim and knot again. If it’s too short… well, congratulations on your new lesson learned.

Give it a quick shake, admire your work, then test it on your kid. Adjust the drawstring for the perfect fit.

Optional Upgrades

If you want to get fancy (but still avoid sewing), you can:

• Add iron-on patches
• Hem the bottom with fabric glue for a cleaner finish
• Add pockets cut from the sleeves
• Tie-dye the shirt before starting
• Use multiple shirts to create color-blocked stripes

Why This Craft Is a Winner

• Budget-friendly: Free, or close to it.
• Kid-approved: Soft, comfy, twirly… the trifecta.
• No mess: No thread nests, bobbins, or machine tantrums.
• Fast: One episode of Bluey and you’re done.

This simple no-sew skirt is proof that decluttering can turn into creativity. One less T-shirt in your donation pile, one more adorable skirt in your kid’s closet. A win-win I will 100% take.

If you want more easy kids’ crafts, upcycles, or household magic made from the stuff you already have, you might also love my Easy No-Sew T-Shirt Tote Bag, Hanging Play Tent, or a fun Tote Backpack.