How to Fold a Shirt in Simple Ways 2024

Folding a shirt may seem simple, but it was a real headache. I always had crumpled shirts, taking up more space than necessary in my drawers or suitcase. Whenever I packed for a trip, I dreaded pulling out a wrinkled mess that made me look dishevelled. After repeatedly finding myself in this frustrating situation, I realized I needed a proper solution. Learning how to fold a shirt became a priority to save space and keep my clothes wrinkle-free and ready to wear. Without solving this, I risked spending more time ironing or repacking, which was inconvenient and time-consuming. Finding a reliable method made all the difference in organizing my wardrobe and easily travelling.

My Method of Folding a Shirt

I used to find folding a shirt to be trouble. Either it would show up wrinkled or occupy too much space in my drawers. I experimented with several different techniques before deciding on a simple one that always produces the best results. I approach things like this:

Step 1: Start On A Level Surface

The first action is absolutely vital. I lay the shirt straight on a bed or table or any other smooth surface. This approach helps to early on prevent wrinkles. Make sure the material is spread equally and without bunching. Using my hands, I rapidly straighten any creases in the clothing before folding it to avoid them catching in the fold.

Step 2: Fold The Sleeves Such That They Lie Flat

In the past, my major issue was sleeves. I used to fold them either too widely, making the shirt thick, or too narrowly, which produced uneven wrinkles. Now I know to orient the sleeves in respect to the sides of the shirt. I fold one sleeve inward so that it runs along the side seam of the shirt. I carry on with the other sleeve following that. This lightens weight without making the clothing thicker.

Step 3: Create In Thirds

The magic happens in the last step here. Folding the garment in thirds keeps it compact and wrinkle-free. I start with the bottom of the garment and fold it inward toward the middle. I then ensure that the top part is folded down over the bottom fold to line everything. This way of folding the shirt ensures that it remains good whether the shirt is kept in a drawer or packed for travel. It conserves space as well.

Folding a Hooded Sweatshirt Is Simple 

Hoodies are quite cozy, but they may also be heavy and challenging to fold. After some trial and error, I discovered a perfect technique for getting them to fit perfectly in my drawers. Previously, I struggled with this. When folding a hooded hoody, I keep neatness and order this way.

Closing the Hood

The first step is handling the hood. Tucking the hood in right away helps the process go more quickly, as hoodies might feel heavy because the hood sticks out. I start by folding the hood back over the top so as much of the sweatshirt as possible is flattened.

Straighten And Flattening

Then, placing the sweatshirt flat on a table, I smooth out its body and sleeves. Ensuring that everything is evenly orientated is quite vital. I fold the sleeves inward to straighten any creases and reposition them so they lay exactly over the body of the sweatshirt.

This keeps everything orderly packed and prevents ugly lumps or protrusion of the sleeves. Taking your time will help you ensure the sweater looks good.

Turn Into Small Rectangles

At this point, the sweatshirt needs to be folded into a more reasonable shape. Depending on its size, I fold the sweatshirt in third or quarters. Better still, fold larger sweaters in thirds: I slightly overlap one side of the body toward the middle, then the other. Starting from the bottom, I next fold it in a neat rectangle.

How I Fold Long Sleeve Shirts Without Getting Wrinkles

I used to find folding long-sleeved shirts difficult. Often, I would find myself wearing clothes with crumpled sleeves or excessively large sleeves. I tried numerous techniques before deciding on one that keeps the shirts tucked in and wrinkle-free. I use this methodical approach:

Set The Shirt Flat

Like with short-sleeved shirts, I start with the long-sleeved shirt flat on a smooth surface. You must use your hands to flattish any wrinkles so that the fabric is even. This forms the structure for a neat fold.

Arrange The Sleeves Across Your Torso

Rather than folding the sleeves straight down the sides, I cross the chest diagonally. I pick one sleeve and fold it at a little slant toward the other side of the garment. I then treat the second sleeve similarly. This advice helps to keep things neat and lessens the space the sleeves occupy.

Organize Your Body In Thirds

I then start folding the body of the shirt in thirds, working from the bottom. I tuck the bottom of the shirt in toward the middle. Folding the top part down over the bottom fold thus produces a small, neat rectangle. This method helps the clothing stay wrinkle-free and lose some bulk.

My Method for Folding Travel Business Shirts

Keeping business shirts neat while on a trip might be difficult without an apparel bag. After considerable experimentation, I discovered a technique that absolutely prevents wrinkles. I do this like this:

Beginning With The Collar Up

I always start by ensuring the collar is correctly polished out and standing straight. By folding the collar up rather than flattening it, creases are avoided, and the shirt looks professional and sharp when unpacked.

Snuck the Sleeves I then gently fold each sleeve inward, setting them flat along the shirt’s sides. I slide the sleeves under the shirt’s body to prevent embarrassing creases where the fabric bunches up. This stage guarantees the shirt stays smooth and reduces any possibility of wrinkling on route.

Avoid Creases In Tissue Paper

Here is the game-changing advice: Inside the shirt’s folds, I lay a sheet of tissue paper. I fold it such that it tucks between layers, preventing the cloth from pressing too firmly together. This little addition stops significant wrinkles from developing during the shirt packing in my suitcase.

Without a garment bag, I can travel with work shirts that seem freshly pressed using this approach.

FAQs on Shirt Folding

Conclusion

For me, folding a shirt used to be a difficult chore; but, after learning a few basic techniques, it has become far simpler and faster. Knowing how to properly fold a shirt saves time, reduces wrinkles, and maintains organization whether it’s an ordinary t-shirt, a long-sleeved shirt, or even a dress shirt for travel. Now that I take the extra time to fold carefully—at home or while packing for a trip—I can escape the frustration of disorganized drawers and wrinkled clothing.

If you’re looking for a quick visual guide, here’s a helpful YouTube video that demonstrates these methods in action. Happy folding!

Estelle Krattinger

I am Estelle Krattinger, a multi-talented creative artist from Paris, France. Known for my captivating photography and enchanting storytelling, I have garnered a dedicated following on Instagram, where I share glimpses of my artistic journey and creative pursuits. With an impeccable eye for detail and a passion for exploring the beauty in the mundane, my work showcases my unique perspective and artistic vision.