Part of the fun in planning a Disney cruise is deciding what to wear. These Disney cruise shirts using my free printable are easy to make and add your own personal touch to any Disney outfit!
I don’t always DIY. But when I do, it’s usually Disney related. Such is the case with my latest project; a fun and easy Disney cruise shirts DIY for the whole family!
If you are planning a Disney cruise, be sure to grab my free template and get crafty as you countdown to your vacation. For my shirt, I used a bleach pen, but fabric paint will work too. This is your project, I’m just here to get you started.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn money on purchases made using my links.
DIY Disney Cruise Shirts Instructions
Your time will mostly be spent gathering supplies and preparing your pattern. Once the bleach or paint is on the shirt, it’s pretty much a waiting game,
Follow the instructions below and enjoy your custom shirt! I’d love to see your results when you finish, so please feel free to share them!

DIY Disney Cruise Shirts | FREE Template
Equipment
- Printer
- Utility Knife
- Laminator (optional)
Materials
- Cardstock
- Bleach Pen
- Shirt
- Gift bag or cardboard
Instructions
- Print out your free Disney Cruise Shirt template on cardstock.
- Cut around anchor outline with utility knife
- Laminate (optional but it will last longer if you do multiple shirts)
- Cut out laminated part from pattern.
- Place old gift bag or cardboard inside shirt
- Position your template (tape down if needed)
- Using bleach pen, color in the design
- Let sit for a minimum of 10 minutes. (you can go longer for a lighter design and outcome will depend on the color shirt you begin with)
- Rinse completely.
- Air dry.
Notes
DIY Disney Family Cruise Shirts Step-By-Step
If you are a visual learner, I also have all the photos for you! Sometimes this part helps so feel free to print the written instructions above or follow along here. Or both!
Start by printing my free Disney cruise shirt pattern on cardstock paper and cut out the design.
If you like gadgets like me and you happen to have a laminator, I recommend laminating the template. This will allow you to reuse it and keep it together once the bleach pen starts to soak in.
See more laminating fun in my Ultimate Disney cruise Fish Extender Q&A.
If you’re using fabric paint, this step isn’t as important so I’ll leave it up to you. Personally, I like laminating things. It’s a sickness.
Once it’s laminated, you’ll need to go back over the design with a utility knife to cut it out again. You don’t want to laminate before cutting out the anchor initially because then it won’t be sealed anymore.
Place an old gift bag or cardboard inside your cotton shirt and place the template where you want it to be. Feel free to tape it down if you want to. I didn’t and wished I had as it shifted slightly and the edges weren’t as crisp as I hoped.
Color in with your paint or bleach pen and let sit. Start checking the color after 10 minutes and add time as desired.
When you are happy with the results, rinse the entire shirt with water and let air dry.
For what it’s worth, I used cold water to rinse. I’ve seen both hot and cold recommended but cold worked just fine for me.
Once it’s dry, voila! Your very own custom Disney family shirt. This was such a fun and easy way to get creative and I can’t wait to wear my shirt on our upcoming cruise!
This would make a great project for kids and DIY is a great way to get everyone excited about a fun trip. For this shirt, I went with the classic Mickey anchor but I’d love your suggestions for more templates.
What designs would you like to see?
Planning a Disney vacation is more than a necessity for me, it’s a hobby! For more ideas on what to wear to Disney, what shoes are best for the parks, and what to pack in your day bag, be sure to check out my other posts below.
I also have more Disney accessories saved in my Amazon shop if you want to skip the DIY route.
If you love pin trading in the Disney Parks, did you know you can also trade on the ships? True story!
Happy planning and please let me know if you have any questions.
Disney Packing Inspiration
Ideas for what to wear to Disney Parks, Cruises and what to bring in your day bag.
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Learn how to make your own Disney family shirts using your own (or your child's artwork). The possibilities are endless!
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Harmony, Momma To Go
Monday 9th of December 2019
Im def doing this for our DCL! My daughter would love to help, I am NOT crafty but this looks pretty easy!
Andrea Updyke
Tuesday 10th of December 2019
It really was! You can vary it so many ways too with paint, adding a border etc. Have fun on your cruise!
Sarah
Tuesday 17th of September 2019
I love this!!! So easy and they all came out so unique!