10 Ways to Give New Life to Vintage Linens

Have an itch to get crafty? Repurpose those cherished but no-longer-used linens taking up space in your closets. Give their beautiful patterns, high-quality fabrics and nostalgic charm a second life as pillows and cushion coverings, quilts and throws, aprons, curtains, tote bags and more.

1. Pillows and cushion coverings: old tablecloths, napkins or embroidered pieces make great decorative pillows or couch cushion covers. Combine different patterns and textures for a one-of-a-kind look.
2. Quilts and throws: combine multiple pieces for a patchwork quilt or throw. This is a great way to make sentimental items wasting away in storage functional again.
3. Aprons: Vintage tea towels and tablecloths can make charming aprons. Add new fabric for ties and pockets.
4. Curtains and valences: larger pieces like tablecloths and bed sheets can be repurposed as delightful window treatments. Their unique patterns can add a touch of yesteryear elegance to any room.
5. Tote bags and purses: create stylish totes, handbags or reusable shopping bags from study outmoded linens. Add linings and handles made from complimentary fabrics.
6. Clothing: linens you no longer use on your table can be transformed into skirts, blouses or children’s dresses. The soft, worn-in fabrics will be comfortable to wear.
7. Table runners and placemats: cut linens to size and hem the edges to create table runners and placemats in a jiffy. Mix and match different colors and fabrics for a chic, coordinated look.
8. Wall art: frame particularly beautiful or sentimental pieces for your walls. This technique preserves loved-long-ago fabrics in a stunning visual display.
9. Gift wrap: old linens make eco-friendly gift wrap that can be used again and again. They add a warm touch to any gift.

• Lavender sachets: make small bags filled with lavender or other fragrant herbs to put in your drawers or closets to keep clothes smelling fresh.

Successful Repurposing

Here are the steps for turning dated linens still perfectly functional into “new” home goods:

• Gently wash the linens to remove any stains or musty odors. Use mild detergent and avoid bleach, which can damage delicate fabrics and remove colors.
• Assess and plan. Examine each piece for wear and tear. Decide what project(s) suit each item based on size, condition and pattern.
• Measure and cut the fabric according to your project needs. Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter to ensure clean edges. Consider a fabric stabilizer (interfacing) if the linen is very delicate.
• Sew by machine or hand. For larger items, consider reinforcing seams and edges for durability.
• Add any finishing touches such as buttons, trims or appliqués to enhance your design.
• Iron the finished item to smooth out any wrinkles and give your piece a polished look.

Pro Tips

1. Don’t be afraid to combine different patterns and textures, as long as the colors complement each other.
2. Embrace small imperfections, stains or worn areas as part of the charm and history of your linens
3. If a fabric is very old and fragile, back it with a sturdier one for extra support.
4. Use today’s sewing techniques and tools to make the job of repurposing dated linens easier and more efficient.

Bring Yesterday’s Treasures Back to Life

Repurposing vintage linens not only keeps them out of the landfill, it is a quick and fun way to get creative, while adding a personal touch to your home décor or wardrobe.

If you don’t have any old linens, you can find them inexpensively at consignment stores like Legacies Upscale Resale. Located in Hyde Park Plaza, we’re one of the city’s best consignment shops for high-quality vintage linens.