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One of the best parts of thrifting at Goodwill NCW is discovering items with hidden potential. Sometimes that potential is already framed, and sometimes it just needs a little imagination and a staple gun. This simple DIY turns a thrifted canvas and a t-shirt into personalized wall art that feels thoughtful, creative, and completely one of a kind.
This project starts with a canvas art piece found at Goodwill NCW and ends with custom decor made from a thrifted t-shirt you already own or one you find while browsing the racks.
Why This DIY Works
Canvas art is easy to find at Goodwill NCW, and it is usually lightweight, sturdy, and budget-friendly. By wrapping a t-shirt over the canvas instead of removing the original artwork, you save time, reduce waste, and give new life to multiple thrifted items at once.
This is also a great way to repurpose shirts with meaning, like event tees, favorite colors, or fun graphics you no longer wear but still love.
DIY Wall Art Project Steps
Supplies You’ll Need:
- A canvas art piece from Goodwill NCW
- A thrifted t-shirt you already own, or thrift one from Goodwill NCW
- Scissors
- Staple gun and staples
- Optional iron for smoothing wrinkles
01
Find the Right Canvas
Head to your local Goodwill NCW and browse the art section. The image on the canvas does not matter since it will be completely covered. Focus on the size, shape, and condition of the frame so it fits your space.
02
Choose Your T Shirt
Select a thrifted t shirt you already love, or pick one up at Goodwill NCW. Bold graphics, simple patterns, and solid colors all work well. Make sure the shirt is clean and wrinkle free so it stretches smoothly over the canvas.
03
Prep the Fabric
Lay the t shirt face down on a flat surface. Place the canvas face down on top of it, centering the design exactly where you want it to appear on the front.
Trim away sleeves or excess fabric if needed, leaving enough material to wrap fully around the back of the canvas frame.
04
Stretch and Staple
Starting on one side, pull the fabric snug over the canvas frame and staple it to the back. Move to the opposite side and repeat, keeping the fabric smooth and evenly stretched.
Continue with the remaining sides, folding the corners neatly like wrapping a gift. All staples should stay hidden on the back for a clean, polished look on the front.
05
Hang and Enjoy
Once everything is secure, your custom art is ready to hang. Many canvases already have hanging hardware, or you can easily add a simple sawtooth hanger.
Make It Your Own
Create a gallery wall using multiple canvases and different t shirts, or let one statement piece shine on its own. This DIY works beautifully in dorm rooms, kids’ spaces, home offices, or anywhere you want decor that feels personal and creative.
Thrift with Purpose
When you shop at Goodwill NCW, you are doing more than finding great DIY supplies. Every purchase helps support job training, employment services, and community programs right here in north central Wisconsin.
Stop by your local Goodwill NCW and see how easy it is to turn everyday thrift finds into something meaningful for your home.
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