The only must-have item is a plain white t-shirt, the rest of the supplies are up to you. You can use craft supplies that you have on hand or buy what you need to make the shirt of your dreams. Ideas for decoration include:

• fabric paint
• fabric dye
• sequins
• glitter
• charms
• buttons
• iron-on appliqués
• iron-on transfers 

Other items that you may want to have available when decorating your shirts include sponges, cookie cutters (to use as stencils), fabric glue, paintbrushes, rubber bands and an iron.

You can now get creative and make your shirts your own. Cut out the sponges into shapes and stamp on fabric paint or dye. Use star shaped cookie cutters as stencils to make your shirt even more patriotic. Sew or glue buttons and charms onto the shirt to give it more interest. If you aren’t terribly artistic or just want something a bit more professional looking, choose a transfer or an appliqué as the focal point. 

Another option that might appeal to you and your children is to try your hand at tie dying your Fourth of July t-shirts. This can be lots of fun and might be a bit easier for the younger children.

Simply gather and twist the fabric of the shirt, wrapping it securely with rubber bands. Prepare your fabric dye according to the directions on the package and soak your shirts for the suggested time. When checking the color, you will want to see your shirt turn a couple of shades darker than you want it, as generally fabric dyes fade a bit as they dry.

Once the shirts have reached the desired color, removed them from the dye, rinse thoroughly and remove the rubber bands. It is usually easiest to cut them off, but be careful not to cut the shirt. You can use a towel to wring the excess water from the shirt and hang it to dry or toss it in the dryer.

Once all of the dyes, paints and glue have dried, your shirts are ready to wear. Show off your new patriotic ensembles at your Fourth of July get-together and know that you are the best-dressed crew in town!

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