• Home
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
  • COLLABORATE
  • FAQ
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

American School of Charm

  • DECORATING
    • CHRISTMAS
    • CELEBRATIONS
    • DINING ROOM
    • FAMILY ROOM
    • GUEST BEDROOM
    • HOME TOUR
      • Home Tour
      • FAMILY ROOM
      • GUEST BEDROOM
  • DIY & CRAFTS
    • DIY Library
    • BAGS
    • GIFTS
    • HOME
    • SEASONAL
  • RECIPES
    • MEALS
    • TREATS

· 2 Comments

This is How to Make Patriotic Clothing on a Budget

creativity· fashion· FASHION· Lovin' Life· SEASONAL· SUMMER

In this post, you’ll see how to make patriotic clothing for a summer outing ALL without breaking the bank!

There’s something truly special about walking around a community wearing the same symbols and colors. It ties everyone together behind a common purpose. I felt it when I lived in Wisconsin and the Packers were playing and I feel it every time there is a parade for a national holiday. Whether it be Memorial Day, 4th of July, or Labor Day, wearing red, white, and blue and seeing so many others doing the same makes me immensely proud of our country.

This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for qualifying purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.

Assembling your patriotic clothing supplies

When I start a project like this there is definitely a little ambiguity going on in my head. I buy and pull together supplies and then see what creative juices start to envision. This is what I began with for this project.

Patriotic Clothing - Supplies

Here you’ll see some great ribbon, Cricut Everyday Iron-On, fabric paint, and basic tanks and a white denim pair of shorts. Pretty basic so let’s see where they lead us! None of them are expensive and they are completely open to anything my little mind can create.

You can follow the same path I took (continue reading) or just use this for inspiration to start on your own custom patriotic clothing. Also, check out my Best of Web post on the best patriotic t-shirts for more ideas.

Get these supplies:

Cricut Machine Everyday Iron-On White, Red, Blue Strongbond Vinyl
Siser EasyWeed HTV 11.8″ x 3ft Roll – Iron on Heat Transfer Vinyl (Gold)
The shorts below are the pair I’m using from Walmart. I’m also including links to comparable shorts from Amazon below. The tank tops I’m using don’t seem to be available any longer so I found a well-priced option, shown below.

Click to BUY
Patriotic Clothing - Shorts

In the end, I’m not using the fabric paint in this post so I won’t take up space for a link. If you want to see what I do with the fabric paint and multi-layer stencils to the red tank then follow me on Instagram. I’ll add a link HERE to the post when I get it published next week.

Let’s get this tank sporting some red, white & blue

Since the shorts I’m using have a frayed edge, I want the shirt to be very clean. Meaning, I don’t want it to have a vintage or washed out look. That’s why I’m going with the Cricut Everyday Iron-On.

After spending some time searching patriotic phrases on Google, I’ve decided to go with ‘merica but to have a big “A” above it so it’s fun but (hopefully) not disrespectful. Yes, that’s my logic. I’m afraid of insulting our country with a slang name. Ughh!!

Here’s the graphic I’ve made using Adobe Illustrator for the tank top. You’ll see I have it ready to go with either a red, white, or blue t-shirt. In the end, I’m going with BLUE! Now to get it ready for my Cricut Maker and Cricut Easy Press 2.

Patriotic Clothing - Illustrator graphics

If you want to use the same graphic in Cricut Design Space, click HERE or on the button below! Yes, this is a FREE file I’m giving to you in the grand ol’ spirit of our great country! Feel the love people!

Cricut Design Space Project Link

This project requires layering. To layer, I heat the base layer for 15 seconds, add the next layer for another 15 seconds, and finally (since the top layer is a gold metallic) the last layer for 10 seconds. After that, I flip the shirt over and heat with the Cricut Easy Press for another 15 seconds.

After waiting 30 seconds to cool (I actually use the timer on the Easy Press), I do a warm peal.

To get the first layer in place nice and centered, I like to use a combination of my t-square and a quilter’s ruler. I use the quilter’s ruler to line up the tops of the shirt and find how far down I want the top of the graphic, Then I place the t-square to show me the center.

TIP: To apply the graphic, with a Sharpie draw a center line down the top of the plastic covering the iron-on vinyl identifying its middle line. Then line that center line with the corresponding edge of the t-square. Hold on to one side of the graphic to keep it in place while removing the t-square and quilter’s ruler. Then you can put the Cricut Easy Press or iron into place.

You can also use heat resistant tape to keep the vinyl in place, if that’s helpful!

Patriotic Clothing - Lining up graphic
Lining up where to place the graphic.

There are other products available that do a similar “trick”, which you might want to consider getting if you don’t have a t-square. They’re more expensive but will work well!

Patriotic Clothing - HTV first layer
With the t-square and quilter’s ruler moved out of the way
the graphic is now ready for the Easy Press.

TIP: Remember to ALWAYS cover all of the iron-on vinyl, not JUST the layer you’re working on! You can reuse the prior layers to cover up any that isn’t taken care of by the current plastic cover.

Patriotic Clothing - HTV always cover vinyl
Note how all of the iron-on vinyl is covered up with the plastic
to make sure it doesn’t have direct contact with the Easy Press.
Patriotic Clothing - finished graphic
All finished!

Adding touches to pull together the patriotic look

I was torn with what to do with the shorts because I really like them (even cheap as they are from Walmart. Who knew!! Sorry Target!). What I’ve decided, works perfectly. I’m simply adding the ribbon down the side leg with my sewing machine. Then, when I’m done wearing them this way, I can just get out my old seam ripper and remove the ribbon. Back to plain white whore, they’ll return!

Patriotic Clothing -  - shorts supplies

Instead of leaving the ribbon as-is, I’m gathering it. This was SOOO easy and can be done with or without a sewing machine.

TIP: To learn how to gather, watch the video, “An Easy Method for Perfect Gathers {with no broken stitches or tangled threads}”, from TheSeasonedHomemaker.com (LINK). It’s a great tutorial on gathering with a machine.

These are so cute and are a total knock-off of shorts for sale at Urban Outfitters!

Patriotic Clothing - Urban's inspiration
Urban Outfitter’s Side Stripe Shorts
Patriotic Clothing - finished shorts
My finished Patriotic shorts! LOVE!!

Accessories finish the patriotic look

Out dressing casually, I tend to go light on the necklaces and earrings. No statement pieces. Match that with the need for sun protection on my face and a hat seems like the perfect topper (lol).

Up to my closet, I go to find a simple sun fedora. All I need to do is add a little ribbon and it’s the perfect match to my patriotic clothing.

Patriotic Clothing - hat

Get this look:

but dorothy needs her shoes

Temperatures are bound to be HOT so sandals of some sort are in order. Keeping this on budget and in the red, white and blue means FLIP FLOPS!!

Patriotic Clothing - flip flops

There are so many super cute pairs sporting the red, white, & blue on Amazon! I’m limiting myself to showing you only three (points for restraint). The first pair is what I have and they’re very comfy.

Get this look:

options are always good

If you want a more subtle graphic on your t-shirt, you can choose the “America You’re Beautiful” graphic I have available in my online boutique. (LINK)

Patriotic Clothing - America You're Beautiful

ready for a day out to celebrate our country

Patriotic Clothing - finished look

If you’re curious about what’s on the table in these photos, take a look at my post, “Easy Patriotic Decorations to Take on the Go“. (LINK)

Now you know how to make patriotic clothing on a budget. I did give some options for a budget that’s a little bigger but it’s all relative. I hope you have fun making your patriotic clothing and definitely tag @americanschoolofdesign on Instagram with a photo of your look!

If you like this post and want to see more from American School of Charm, please subscribe. It’s totally FREE and puts you on the inside track for sales, events, and freebies. You also get access to the Maker’s Group Resource Library. That’s where I put files relating to the feature project each month and it’s only available to subscribers. So get on it and subscribe right now!

Stars

Always feel welcome to reach out if you have any questions or need some input on a project. You can contact me by clicking HERE!

Have a great day and remember to always live your life creatively! XOXO, Ali.

Pin
Share
0 Shares
Previous Post: « Easy Patriotic Decorations to Take On the Go
Next Post: Top 17 Tips You Need to Know for Your First Pop-Up Shop »

Reader Interactions

Trackbacks

  1. Easy Patriotic Decorations to Take On the Go - American School of Charm says:
    at

    […] forget to check out my posts on DIY Patriotic T-Shirts and How to Make Patriotic Clothing on a Budget so you’re dressing as patriotically as your […]

    Reply
  2. Best of the Web - A Patriotic Shirt (All Country Club Approved) - American School of Charm says:
    at

    […] To see my post on How to Make Patriotic Clothing on a Budget and get a look at my outfit for this year, click HERE. […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

I'm Ali

Upcoming Posts

✂︎ High-Performance Efficiency Tips
✂︎ Sticking to a Budget
✂︎ Knife-Edge Throw Pillows
✂︎ Spring Door Wreath
✂︎ Stencil Picnic Charcuterie Board
✂︎ Warm Weather Tote Bag
✂︎ FB Marketplace Table Upcycle
✂︎ Personalized Baby Blanket
✂︎ “Happy Birthday” Bunting
✂︎ Summer Face Masks

Search

Follow Us

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Disclosure

Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

shop my favorites

Affiliate of:

button

Subscribe to our newsletter

  • Home
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
  • COLLABORATE
  • FAQ

americanschoolofcharm

Tonight is Stella’s last volleyball game and, as Tonight is Stella’s last volleyball game and, as I’m just realizing, the last time I’ll see one of my girls play a sport or do an activity in high school. Exciting to watch them grow up but also really sad. Go Lakers and #5 ♥️
My two big girls ♥️ My two big girls ♥️
My daughter’s office ... so proud of her. For a My daughter’s office ... so proud of her. For a complete tour, visit her website. Bysophialee.com ♥️
My bookends ♥️ My bookends ♥️
Want to see what I’ve purchased for my new place Want to see what I’ve purchased for my new place? Plus some great tips on how to arrange furniture with an open floor plan. Check it out. Link in bio.
R. I. P. 2020! My new motto for 2021 is “making R. I. P. 2020! My new motto for 2021 is “making it ourselves!” I forecast a year of change, hard work, forgiveness, and letting the ones you love be free to ... as we all must eventually, make it ourselves! Above all, it’s a year to let go of all the negativity that has built up in 2020 and look to appreciate the blessings we’re given (even if it’s hard), and return to the love that’s inside all of us. It’s time to heal, forgive, and strengthen our most important bonds.
She loves to decorate but you have no idea what to She loves to decorate but you have no idea what to get her for Christmas? It's a no brainer. Start her sewing and I tell you exactly HOW in my post listing out exactly what you need to start sewing today (for her or yourself ... hmmm, Christmas gift yourself 😉 ) Link in bio
Do you need an easy last-minute door wreath!? Here Do you need an easy last-minute door wreath!? Here's the easiest project and you'll LOVE the results! ⁠
Are you wondering how this is done? I show you ste Are you wondering how this is done? I show you step-by-step in my tutorial demonstrating how to wrap with Pinterest PIN Perfect Precision (say that 10x fast!) Link in bio.
Want to up your gift wrapping skills? I have EXACT Want to up your gift wrapping skills? I have EXACTLY what you need to know! Check out my tutorial showing how to perfectly wrap separate gift lids and boxes. You'll never wrap the same way again!  Link in bio.
I'm spilling my secret to making big ribbon bows t I'm spilling my secret to making big ribbon bows that are Pinterest perfect. Martha will be so proud of you when you make one of these no-stress magic bows! link in bio.
Feel the urge to be CREATIVE? I've got you covered Feel the urge to be CREATIVE? I've got you covered! How about making this "Merry Always and Happy Always" wood sign! I give you all the details in a step-by-step photo tutorial. You've got this! Link in bio.⁠
⁠
And if you're feeling like you're on a HUGE creating and making BINGE, then join The Great Create Challenge Facebook Group. We love to be challenged and creative! This group does both. Check us out on Facebook or head to the post and you'll see the icon to click in the sidebar.⁠
⁠
✨ The new prompt for The Great Create Challenge ✨ The new prompt for The Great Create Challenge Facebook Group is LIVE!✨⁠
⁠
❝Let's start this year with some positive manifestation using a quote that inspires YOU! ❞⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
Find a way to incorporate this quote into your home or workspace so you see it and are reminded that 2021 can be ANYTHING you choose based on your mindset!⁠
⁠
Who knows? You might end up making the difference not just in your own life, but in that of another person who sees your creativity in action.⁠
⁠
This is a group formed to inspire creativity in your life! To participate, you don't need to be an artist or be craftsy. How you express your creativity is in your own hands and heart. Draw, sew, sculpt, paint, write, bake, cook, dance, sing, craft ... the list is endless! No rules, just support, and love is flowing to everyone who chooses to participate.⁠
⁠
Head over to The Great Create Challenge Facebook page and join so you can inspire yourself and others! 🤩
Hmmm... what do these pretties look like in the en Hmmm... what do these pretties look like in the end? Take a look at my post and see how easy it is for YOU to make some special memories with this Christmas project. Family time!! Link in bio.
This year, I'm totally into Lamb's ear and drop cl This year, I'm totally into Lamb's ear and drop cloths. So I put the two together with my favorite iced berry sprig. Check out the result! ⁠
This little guard gnome is on patrol! This little guard gnome is on patrol!
Sneaky ways to easily add sparkle and twinkle to y Sneaky ways to easily add sparkle and twinkle to your holiday table! You'll LOVE the reaction of your friends and family when they marvel at your holiday decorating! Link in bio!
Yes, you can make this using the easy step-by-step Yes, you can make this using the easy step-by-step tutorial with pictures and a video! Perfect for gifting and decorating your tree. Great keepsake too! link in bio. ⁠
 #wrappinggifts #christmastree #giftideas #stockingstuffer #gifts #giftsforher #tassels #giftgiving
Give something totally UNEXPECTED! I've broken dow Give something totally UNEXPECTED! I've broken down what anyone needs to start sewing. This is a gift that can open new opportunities for home decor and start a hobby that will last a lifetime! Link in bio.
THIS is how to gift wrap boxes with separate lids THIS is how to gift wrap boxes with separate lids and bottoms with NO foldovers showing! You'll never look at gift wrapping again after checking out this method that was just posted with a step-by-step photo tutorial! Link in bio⁠
Load More... Follow on Instagram
© 2021 American School of Charm.