Keepsake shirt

My dad recently passed away and I wanted to create a keepsake out of something that he wore so I picked out a couple of his shirts. I added this vintage name patch that I got on Etsy to the shirt and I think it makes it even more special to remember him by. You could use any patch for this project or even hand embroider the name on the shirt. I will use this shirt as a smock for painting. My dad would appreciate that since he was an artist himself.

Check out the how to video on You Tube:

Here is how to make this project:

Supplies:

Keepsake shirt or other item
Name patch or embroidery thread
Needle and thread
Embroidery ring (optional)
Scissors

Take a minute to decide where you want to put the name patch on your shirt. Try it on if you are going to wear it. I decided to put the name patch above the pocket. Use a straight pin to hold the patch in place.

For this shirt I am using an embroidery ring to keep the fabric taught. Starting from the inside begin to hand sew your patch in place with an overhand stitch. Use small stitches for the best result.

Periodically check the back of the fabric and continue to sew around the edge of the patch.

Once you have sewn around the patch tie off the thread on the inside and tuck in the loose ends before trimming the excess thread off.

It is as simple as that. These stiches are easily removed if you ever decide to remove the patch.

I love how this turned out. It gives me a warm feeling to think of my dad every time I see this shirt.

Of course this method would also be great to enhance any shirt using various types of patches not just a name patch. I love how this turned out.