have them make T-shirt book bags. cut the arms off (leaving the seam on the shirt). Cut a circle deeper around the neck.(this forms the handles & opening) then stitch the bottom of the shirt across a couple of times.(inside out)
you would be surprised at how much these bags will hold. and it is something they can do at home later with other shirts.

I just ran across a recycled jean project. How about cutting off a leg on a pair of jeans, you can either make a tote by sewing one end shut. You could use the waist band or cut some bands off to shorten the leg for handles. Or, make a pillow by sewing both ends shut after stuffing.

When I taught kindergarten and first grade, we made tooth fairy pillows. I cut out an outline of a tooth and sewed it onto a small felt square, leaving the top open for a pocket. Then turned it into a small pillow. You could still use recycled fabric and/or plastic bag stuffing. Most kids have a "hole" in their smile at that age and need a place to put that precious tooth.

They could use throw pillows and a tshirt they no longer fit into. Just cover the pillow with the tshirt, tie the sleeves on the back, tie the bottom, and they have a nice soft pillow.

Ask freecycle for the pillows!

Diane

I love the idea of a quilt to donate. That is so sweet and teaches more.

Great ides but my first concern was is it safe to get old pillows from thrift stores and unknown sources may have bed bug infestation Just a horrible thought

I was thinking the same thing about the grocery bags. Although I'm not sure how you would clean these.

Also my nieces used a sweatshirt with long sleeves. Closed the cuffs and neckline. Stuffed the shirt, then closed the bottom. It is used as one of those pillows for sitting in bed. You see all the college kids with them. They drew on the front of the sweatshirt for us.

I really like the idea of making a quilt for charity. Not only would it teach the kids about recycling, but about the joy of giving to others. Great idea.

Good use for recycling but...potential choaking hazard consideration?

How about making a back pack out of the tee-shirt. All you would need is some cord for the shoulder straps. Hem the bottom and close off the arm. Turn over the collar with some cord to close it. You would also need one of those cord thingys to keep it tight.

I should have read all the post before I responded, someone had a similar idea.