Paint Shirts to Pillows

Mr. G is a painter; has been for 37 years. Interior, exterior, big, small, residential, commercial, all shapes and sizes - he's painted it.

And this is what his painting clothes look like.

So, what to do with the shirts that are worn out or simply in surplus?

Usually I just turn them into garage and painting rags. No problem. But, I always wonder if there is a better second life out there for some of these shirts. They seem to be works of art in their own way. My mom is a certified art teacher, and we both tend to see things for what they could be  - often no matter the state they are in. I come by it honestly!

A quick easy project with a lot of impact was the ticket.

Pillow cases.

I used three paint shirts to get all the material I needed for the envelope style backs.

In fact, I even utilized the existing shirt hems.

The shirts were all washed of course, and even though there is texture,

the paint really isn't rough or too bumpy.

I may be off my rocker, but I think the paint pillows look great on the rocker.

Not too bad on the couch either.

That's one place that sees a lot of abuse, but ya know what? Can't hurt these pillows!

There are many color variations in the pillows, so they'll go with so many palettes,

but I like this one paired with the russet of the pillow

and the green of the vintage wool army blanket [great yard sale find!].

Mr. G's first and only response when he saw them? 

"Weird."

Well, perhaps. It is artsy and creative for sure. But they coordinate well, get used a lot, and can just as easily be recycled one more time in the garage rag pile when the season changes. Besides, snuggling up with one of these pillows brings him a bit closer to home when Mr.G is gone for an evening or the whole summer painting. It's like a big bear hug!

These pillows are ready to party, and we'll be there,
so check out the Parties page for the most fab parties on the block!
Such as: http://betweennapsontheporch.net