I have made many T-shirt quilts. I have used the backs of the tees as fabric to frame out small designs to fit the largeat size of tee design. I also prefer designs to all go in one direction, but have see some where it is multidirection. These have also used smaller designs as sashing. I think I would ask owner of tees if possible. I know the younger recipients have loved all the ideas. You just never know!! Whatever you end up with, it will be cherished. Trust me.