Easy To Make Organizer Containers Using an Upcycled Tissue Box

upcycled tissue box
upcycled tissue box

I have this thing with recycling,  upcycling and re-purposing items when I can. In this post, I’m going to show you how to make organizer containers using an upcycled tissue box, for your drawers, your office desk or your shelves.

Materials & Items Needed

  • Empty tissue box
  • 5 empty toilet paper rolls (optional)
  • Paper scissors
  • Ruler, measuring tape or cutting mat
  • Masking tape or Washi tape or you can use colorful masking tape
upcycled tissue box

Upcycled Tissue Box Instructions

You can make these containers as tall or as short as you want, but I found 4 inches to be a great size for markers, pens, and scissors.

You can use a ruler of course, but I like just using this small cutting mat.

1- Measure and mark the four-inch place on the top of the box. Flip it until you have all four edges marked. 

upcycled tissue box

2- From the tissue box opening, cut into the corners. Then cut down to the place that you marked and cut all the way around.

upcycled tissue box taping

Finishing Off the Top Edge of the Cut Upcycled Tissue Box

1- Finish off the top edge with masking tape, painter’s tape, washi tape, or colored masking tape. Place the tape so it’s halfway onto the front of the box edge and wrap the tape all the way around the top edge of the box.

2- Rip the tape and fold the other half over the edge and secure the tape in place.

upcycled tissue box packaging tape

If the tape isn’t sticking very well, like sometimes it doesn’t, you can take packaging tape and fold it over the top to make it more durable.

upcycled tissue box janni tip

Here is a tip on how to put the packaging tape around the corners so it doesn’t overlap.upcycled tissue box taping

3- Center the tape along the top edge just like you did the masking tape, but BEFORE YOU FOLD THE TAPE OVER, CUT A SLIT IN THE TAPE AT THE CORNERS.

This will allow you to fold each side separately down without overlapping. Works like a charm!

Now the upcycled tissue box will be more durable and that Wasi tape will be stuck down.

Optional Upcycled Tissue Box Inserts

If you want little sections inside the box for pencils and things upcycled toilet paper rolls work great.

Cut the 5 toilet paper rolls to four inches (or the height of your box). You can flatten the rolls in half to make that cut, and they’ll spring right back.

Simply stick the toilet paper rolls into the box. Sit this on your desk and you’re good to go.

If you wanted to cover up that Kleenex symbol, just put a sticker over the top.

 

 

upcycled tissue box socks

Large Upcycled Tissue Box Organizers

I really like using these bigger upcycled tissue boxes as organizers and dividers in my drawers for things like socks, underwear, and other small items.

 

upcycled tissue box clothing

You pretty much do the same thing. I like using the full height of the box for socks and stuff, but if you wanted to make the box height shorter for an office drawer of smaller items, simply cut the sides down just as explained before.

Of course, you can always buy premade plastic dividers, but why not upcycle a simple tissue box?

I hope this is something that you can implement in your house and use to recycle when you can.

 

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Whether it’s a new recipe, a fun craft, or some handy tips for your garden and home, I hope to empower and inspire you with skills that you can use to create joy, improved health, and to do it in a simple way.

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Upcycled Zipper Bracelets | 3 Adorable DIY Styles

zipper bracelets

These upcycled zipper bracelets are unique, easy to make, and quite adorable. In this tutorial, you will learn how to make them using 3 simple methods. Oh, how I love upcycling and making useful items out of repurposed items! When you think “outside the box” you can come up with so many fun things that are UNIQUE and ONE-OF-A-KIND.

zipper upcycling storage binIn a previous post, I gave some great tips for zipper upcycling that you may want to check out. These bracelets can also be made with new zippers, after all, zippers are inexpensive and you may not have a zipper stash as I do. LOL.

zipper bracelets

These zipper bracelets are really cute layered with other types of bracelets and can also be made into cute necklaces.

Here are 3 different styles and methods for making bracelets.

zipper bracelets items and materials

Zipper Bracelets Materials & Items Needed

wide band zipper bracelets

Wide Band Zipper Bracelets Instructions

1 – Plug in your hot glue gun and get that heated up.

2 – Cut zipper to the desired length.

For an adult bracelet, I recommend cutting 6-7 inches. If you’re making bracelets for a child, measure then cut.

3 – Unzip the zipper and flip the zipper teeth to the outside.

Decide which side of the zipper you want to expose. (I prefer exposing the metal teeth over the colored teeth), but it’s just preference.

***If you want to embroider on the bracelet, do it now before you glue the two pieces tougher. You can add any kind of bling you want to the bracelet at this time.

4 – Apply hot glue to one side of one section of the zipper.

You can apply all the glue at once or do it in sections as you stick the two pieces of the zipper together. Line up the fabric edge of one zipper section with the other section’s zipper edge teeth as shown in the photo.

5 – Trim the ends of the zipper to square off and cut any threads.

Apply a bead of Fray Check to the raw edges on both the top and underside of the ends to keep the fabric from fraying.

6 – Take the ribbon clamps and apply them to the ends of the zipper using needle nose pliers. Clamp tightly.

Apply a jump ring and the lobster clasp to one end and a jump ring and an O ring to the other. You can add more jump rings or charms at this point.

Center Cut Zipper Bracelet Instructions

You can use this method to make a single wrap bracelet, a double wrap bracelet, or a necklace/choker.zipper bracelet choker

1 – Cut a zipper 7 inches long for a bracelet, 14 inches for a double wrap bracelet, and 15-16 inches for a choker necklace.

DO NOT SEPARATE THE ZIPPER!

2 – Using a pair of scissors, cut along the edge of the zipper teeth on both sides of the zipper teeth.

Using a lighter (I like this long handle lighter) burn the edges of the zipper fabric to keep it from fraying. (If it is an all-cotton fabric zipper, you may need to use the Fray Check to keep the edges from fraying. The Fray Check dries clear. 

3- Take the needle nose pliers and remove 2-3 sets of zipper teeth.

How many teeth you remove depends on the length of your clamp beads. (it literally feels like you’re pulling teeth).

4 – Apply a dab of school glue to the end of the zipper fabric and roll it with your fingers to keep the ends together.

5 – Apply the crimp bead over the fabric ends (make sure the right side of the zipper is facing the way you want it to be) and clamp tightly using the pliers.

Add the jewelry hardware the same way as described above.

Embroidery Thread Wrapped Bracelet Instructions

1 – Cut a zipper to the desired length and separate the zipper. (You’ll only be using one side of the zipper).

2 – Cut a strand (all six threads) 4 x the length of the cut zipper.

For a 7-inch zipper cut at least 28 inches. It doesn’t have to be exact, just make sure it is long enough so you’re not running out of thread.

**tip:  I have found a trick that keeps the embroidery floss from separating and coats it for moisture protection. Simply take a piece of bees wax or other wax and pull the thread along an edge of the wax. It will lightly coat it with wax which also makes it easier to work with.

3 – Remove 2-3 zipper teeth on each end with your pliers. 

4 – Burn the edges of the zipper fabric as shown above.

4- Apply a dab of glue to the fabric end of the zipper and place the end of the embroidery floss on top of the glue.

Twist the ends of the zipper and floss to stick them together and then apply the crimp bead. Do this to only one end of the zipper at this time.

5 – Start wrapping the embroidery floss around the zipper and between the teeth.

Continue wrapping until you’ve covered the whole zipper.

Cut any remaining embroidery floss and apply glue, twist and then add the crimp bead. Add jewelry hardware and you’re finished.

These zipper bracelets are fun little on-the-go crafts for traveling or to do while watching a good movie.

Be on the lookout at thrift stores, yard sales, and even in items of clothing for a GOOD ZIPPER! You can find some really cool zippers with great colors and hardware if you look for them.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial.

Be sure to check out my other upcycling posts and video tutorials.

T-Shirt Yarn | Made From Upcycled T-Shirts

Upcycled T Shirts – Ideas and Tips

Upcycled Denim Jeans – Ideas and Tips

Have fun making zipper bracelets!

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How To Make an Arm Sleeve | Sun Protection | Upcycled Clothing

arm sleeve

When you’re driving in the car, and you can’t find shade for your arm, this arm sleeve is the perfect solution! It’s a quick and very simple project that will only take you 10 minutes to make. What’s even better…you can make it from an upcycled shirt.

Why it’s so important to cover your arm while driving and other activities?

My dermatologist and many studies online show a significantly higher rate of skin cancers on the left arm versus the right. (Very interesting).

“Our initial findings confirm that there is a correlation between more time spent driving and a higher incidence of left-sided skin cancers, Just over half,  53%, had skin cancers on the left side of their body”.

I don’t know about you, but this makes me want to cover my arms, and these arm sleeves are a simple solution.

What is an arm sleeve?

An arm sleeve is a protective arm covering that can be used for several things. Tight-fitting arm sleeves can be used for compression, helping with blood flow, swelling, and temperature control. You can also wear a more loose-fitting arm sleeve for sun protection.

What fabric is best for arm sleeves?

If you’re wanting to make an arm sleeve for sun protection, the best fabrics to use are synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, and spandex. These fabrics generally have a tighter weave, which is good for sun protection.

arm sleeveMost likely, you know that I’m a big fan of recycling and upcycling clothing. You can use the sleeve of an existing long sleeve top. Look through your closet and see if you have any sportswear (long-sleeved jackets, swim tops, etc) that have a high content of the synthetic and stretchy fabric.

If you don’t, check out your local THRIFT STORES and second-hand stores. You can usually find and pick up a shirt at a good price.

Materials & Items Needed

  • Long sleeve shirt (fabric qualifications as listed above)
  • Scissors/Rotary Cutter and mat (optional)
  • Pins
  • Sewing machine
  • Ballpoint/Microtex or universal sewing machine needle
  • Fabric for cuff (if the fabric from the shirt you’re upcycling is stretchy enough, you can use the bottom portion of the shirt). If not, you can use another upcycled clothing item like leggings, yoga pants or anything that has a lot of stretch to it. (I recommend at least 50% stretch).

How to make a protective arm sleeve

 

1-Cut off the sleeve of an existing long sleeve shirt.

2- Measure the upper part of your arm.

Subtract 1 inch/2.5 cm from that measurement and write it down.

arm sleeve binding

3- Cut out the cuff.

Measure a piece of binding fabric (4 inches/10 cm x YOUR ARM MEASUREMENT – 1 INCH). **** Cut the length (arm measurement) on the stretch of the fabric.

4-Fold the cuff in half with short ends lined up (RIGHT SIDES TOGETHER).

Sew down the short end using a STRAIGHT STITCH, 3/8” SEAM ALLOWANCE.

arm sleeve half way points5- Fold the cuff in half horizontally and line up the cut edges and seam.

To mark the HALF WAY POINTS on the sleeve cuff and upper sleeve, fold them in half and mark the halfway points with pins.

arm sleeve pinning cuff6- Place the cuff over the top of the arm sleeve with (RIGHT SIDES FACING EACH OTHER) and seams lined up.

Line up the seams and halfway points and pin them in place. (THE CUFF WILL BE SMALLER THAN THE SLEEVE). You’ll be stretching the fabric to ease the fabric in as you sew. WATCHING THE VIDEO TUTORIAL WILL REALLY HELP SEE HOW THIS IS DONE.

arm sleeve seam

****If the sleeve has a lot of bulk and the cuff doesn’t have enough stretch to it, you can narrow the upper sleeve by tapering the arm sleeve seam.

7- Change the stitch on your sewing machine to a LIGHTNING BOLD STITCH or NARROW ZIGZAG STITCH.

arm sleeve sewing8- Sew around the cuff stretching as you sew.

Keep all three layers of fabric edges lined up as you sew. TAKE YOUR TIME. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam.

 

arm sleeve diy9- Flip the cuff out and that’s it!

I like to keep one or two of these arm sleeves in the car, in my gardening apron, and in my backpack when hiking.

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How To Make Adorable DIY Shoelaces With Fabric and Recycled T-Shirts

diy shoelaces

Put a little style in your sneakers with some adorable DIY shoelaces. Finding a set of shoelaces to purchase that are colorful and unique just doesn’t happen, so why not make your own. Making your own shoelaces is such an easy thing to do and the color combinations and patterns are endless.

These shoelaces can be made using regular cotton fabric or recycled t-shirts. In this tutorial, I give instructions on how to make two different types of shoelaces and three different methods.

  • Fabric laces (bias tape and tube methods)
  • T-shirt laces (NO SEWING REQUIRED)

The first method is sewing strips of woven fabric and the second method is simply using stretchy t-shirt yarn.

DIY Shoelaces Materials & Items Needed

  • Fabric scissors/rotary cutter (optional)
  • Bias tape maker (optional RED #18)
  • Fabric: Cotton Woven fabrics/Upcycled t-shirts/ Knit fabric
  • Iron
  • Shrink tubing 3/16 inch (optional)
  • Heat Gun (optional) / Hairdryer
  • Packaging tape/ or needle & thread (optional)
  • Sewing machine for sewn method
  • Safety pin
  • Needlenose pliers
  • Fraycheck (optional)

Fabric DIY Shoelaces

The first thing to do is decide how long you need to make your DIY shoelaces. Use the chart below to determine the length.

*If you like the length of the current laces that are in your shoes, simply pull out the laces and measure. Cut the fabric strips to that length.

Cut strips of fabric 1.5 inches/4 cm. (Fabric can be cut on the bias or on the grain).*See video tutorial

diy shoelaces measuring chart
diy shoelaces bias tape

BIAS TAPE MAKER METHOD

(For more information on how to make your own bias tape, READ HERE).

  • Apply the bias strip into the bias tape maker (RED #18)
  • Pull through and press as you go.
  • Topstitch along the open edge from end to end.
  • Do this for both laces.
  • Fold in half and press.

FOLD & IRON METHOD (without using the bias tape maker)

  • Fold the strip in half lengthwise and press. Fold the edges to the centerfold and press. Fold in half again and press.
  • Topstitch along the open edge from end to end.
  • Do this for both laces.

HIDDEN SEAM LACES

If you don’t like the look of stitching on the shoelaces, you can use this method.

  • Fold the strip in half with the RIGHT SIDES TOGETHER.
  • Sew along the raw edges from end to end using a 1/4 inch seam allowance.
  • Turn RIGHT SIDE FACING OUT.

TURNING TIPS: Here are a few tips on how to turn the tube inside out.

OPTION #1:  Sew the tube leaving both ends open. Apply a safety pin to the end of the tube and thread it through to the other end, pulling through as you go.

OPTIONS #2 Before sewing the seam, get a long piece of sturdy twine or ribbon. Sew it into the seam at the end of the tube. Tuck the twine along the inside fold (so you don’t catch it into the seam) and sew down the side seam.

Gently pull the twine to pull the end of the tube inside itself until you can grab it. Then pull it until the whole tube is turned inside out.

T-SHIRT FABRIC LACES (No Sewing Required)

I love upcycling t-shirts! Check out THIS POST for some other great ideas of what you can make with this stretchy material.

IF YOU WANT MORE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO MAKE T-SHIRT YARN, CHECK OUT THIS POST AND VIDEO TUTORIAL.

  • Cut 2 inch/5 cm strips of t-shirt fabric.
  • Pull strips to tighten and curl the fabric.
  • Measure the strips and cut them to the desired length.

FINISHING SHOELACE ENDS

  • Cut 4 shrink tube pieces to .75 inches /2 cm.
  • Apply shrink tube to the ends of laces allowing a little bit of the lace to extend past the end of the tube.
  • Heat tube using a hairdryer, heat gun, or open flame.
  • Remove the heat source once the tubing has shrunk and tightened around the lace.
  • Cut off the excess fabric.
DIY SHOELACES FRAYCHECK

DIY SHOELACES -OTHER FINISHING OPTIONS:

  • You can take a needle and thread and stitch and wrap around and around the ends while pulling the thread tightly. Knot and cut the thread.
  • Apply fray check to the fabric ends to keep the fabric from fraying.

GET THE FREE PRINTABLE INSTRUCTIONS HERE

Lace your shoes and enjoy an authentic stylin, one-of-kind pair of shoes!

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Upcycling Is Hip | 5 Innovative Ways To Recycle Items Around Your House

UPCYCLING IS HIP

For those of you who follow me know that I love Upcycling! For some reason, I get a thrill out of taking something that is no longer wanted and giving it a new life. In this tutorial, I show you 5 innovative ways to recycle items that you have around the house.

What Is Upcycling?

According to Wikipedia: Upcycling, also known as creative reuse, is the process of transforming by-products, waste materials, useless, or unwanted products into new materials or products perceived to be of greater quality, such as artistic value or environmental value.

 

UPCYLING IS HIP

I use a lot of wool sweaters for my projects, but there are a lot of other ways to upcycle all kinds of items around the house.

5 Innovative Ways for Upcycling

  • CLOTHING
  • HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
  • GARDEN TOOLS
  • FURNITURE
  • CARTONS & CONTAINERS

1- Upcycling Clothing

Oh boy, there are so many ways to upcycle clothing. You can reuse the fabric, buttons, zippers, and trim from a lot of clothing items. Here are some fun examples of how I used different things to make this cross-body bag.

upcycling sweaters

SWEATERS

Although a lot of my projects use felted wool sweaters, there are a lot of other projects that you don’t need a wool sweater for. Here are a few examples: Hats, Mittens, Stuffed Animals, Slippers, Toys, and so much more. You can locate all my patterns for many of these projects HERE.

Be sure to check out my post on how to felt and store upcycled wool sweaters. I also have some YouTube videos showing you how to make a lot of these projects.

Upcycled denim quilt - youmakeitsimple.com

JEANS

The fabric from a pair of jeans can come in handy for so many things: Quilts, purses, patching holes, and anything that you need to make that needs a little more durable fabric. I have a big bin of old jeans ready to make another denim quilt for my daughter. This is an easy beginner sewing project. You can read more about it HERE.

I have some projects coming up soon using upcycled jeans, so don’t throw those old jeans away. Here is a tutorial on how to easily cut up jeans for upcycling.

sewing tips upcycling t shirts

T-SHIRTS

T-shirt fabric is one of my favorite ways of upcycling. The stretchy fabric makes it useful in so many ways. Here are some ways I have found to use it: shoelaces, face mask ties, crochet projects, t-shirt yarn, baby clothes, headbands, hats, and so much more.

Read this post for some great tips on upcycling t-shirts.

2- Upcycling Household Items

This is another fun category with endless possibilities. Although I have only posted on a few ways to upcycle household items, I have a big list of things I want to share with you. So stay tuned. Here are a few things I have repurposed.

 

TIN CUP PENCIL/PAINTBRUSH HOLDER

I’m a sucker when it comes to old tin cups, buckets, and other unique containers. Look how cute and functional this tin cup ended up working out to hold my paintbrushes.

 

MASON JARS

Oh, the random ways you can use a simple mason jar! We use mason jars in our home a ton. Not only for canning (which I don’t do much of anymore), but for storing all kinds of random things. Just add a lid and you’re good to go. 

Without a lid, you can use them as a vase, pencil holder, drinking glasses. Seriously, we use the small jars as drinking glasses in my kitchen. 

I’ll be posting some specific tutorials just for mason jars here shortly, so stay tuned.

 

GLASS CONTAINERS

You gotta love this round jar with a flap lid. I’m not sure exactly what this was used for before, but I found this at a tag sale and had to have it. I found the perfect use for it in my laundry room. It holds the bulk laundry soap in my laundry room. Check out my laundry room tour here.

3- Upcycling Garden Tools

Here are a few ideas of how I’ve upcycled some used garden tools. 

GARDEN RAKE/NECKLACE  BRACELET HANGER

My dad was a gardener and having a garden tool displayed in my home brings sweet memories of my dear pa. I found a fun way to use this old garden rake to hang my necklaces and bracelets. I have a few other old rakes waiting to be used.

You could hang all kinds of stuff from this rake mounted on the wall. Wouldn’t this be really cute in the kitchen/pantry to hang aprons!

GARDEN BUCKETS AND BARRELS

There is something about the look of old galvanized buckets and barrels that I love. I think they can add so much character and charm to your home.

Use them as containers for plants, flower arrangements, and other random items. I have used this quaint bucket many times for plants.

In the picture above, I brought my rosemary plant inside and placed it in this bucket. Not only did the rosemary plant look beautiful, but I also had fresh rosemary to use in my cooking.

4- Upcycling Furniture

It’s so fun to find an old piece of furniture and not only refinish it, but TO USE IT FOR ANOTHER PURPOSE THAN IT WAS MADE FOR.

CABINETS

For example, this cute cabinet that I painted orange and put in my bathroom used to be a television cabinet. My husband cut it down so it wasn’t so deep and put a new back on it. So cute!

WICKER BASKET/DRAWER

This nightstand has a weird, deep shelf that was not functional and hard to use. So I found a square wicker basket and added a drawer knob. Now it functions as a useful drawer.

Get the instructions here.

5- Upcycling Containers & Cartons

Many items that you buy come packaged in containers that can be repurposed and used in other ways. Here are a few examples.

UPCYCLED MILK CARTON SNACK/DRINK HOLDER

Here is a fun way to upcycle a milk carton spout. These little jars with a small screwable lid work really well to store all kinds of snacks (nuts, seeds, and even liquids).

Get the whole scoop and detailed instructions here.

SHOPPING BAG DISPENSER

Here is a way to upcycle two items: shopping bags and a tissue box. This is another quick and easy project that works like a charm to help keep those obnoxious grocery bags organized. Check out the tutorial here.

METAL BIKE BASKET

I turned this metal bike basket into a quaint and functional magazine holder for the bathroom. Simply apply a piece of felt to the bottom of the basket so it doesn’t scratch your floor.

There you have it, 5 ways to upcycle that are hip and unique.

Start looking around your house and at the thrift store for some fun items that you can upcycle. 

I hope you found something inspiring and useful in this tutorial. Feel free to share some of your own ideas in the comments below. 

HERE’S ANOTHER POST YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN:

Upcycling Love | Thrift Store & Consignment Shopping Tips

 

Happy upcycling!

 

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Whether it’s a new recipe, a fun craft, or some handy tips for your garden and home, I hope to empower and inspire you with skills that you can use to create joy, improved health, and to do it in a simple way.

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How To Easily Make a Snack and Beverage Holder With a Simple Recycled Milk Carton

Recycled Milk Carton Spout Snack and Beverage Holder juice

I love to recycle when I can and this simple recycled milk carton spout makes a great snack and beverage holder. It’s a quick and easy project and you’re going to love the simplicity of this little container.

Items Needed

  • Glass jar/any size and any size opening
  • Pencil/marker/pen
  • Paper scissors
  • Recycled milk or beverage carton with a plastic spout
Play Video

What to put in your recycled milk carton spout jar?

Of course, you can put whatever you want in these little jars, but here are some ideas that I use them for. I keep a jar filled with sunflower seeds and it makes it really easy to shake a bunch on a salad or for snacking, the same with nuts. When we travel it makes it easy to throw in a few little jars filled with snacks into our travel bag.

These recycled milk carton lids also make a great little beverage holder. Just unscrew the lid and take a sip. The lid seals well and does not leak! They make a fun little sippy cup for the little ones.

  • Nuts/seeds
  • Liquid beverages
  • Seeds
  • Dried fruit

Instructions

Recycled Milk Carton Spout Snack and Beverage Holder

Take an empty recycled milk carton and rinse it out well. Using a pair of PAPER SCISSORS, poke a hole in the side of the carton about halfway down. Continue to cut around the carton. Open up the carton and flatten it out.

Recycled Milk Carton Spout Snack and Beverage Holder tracing jar

Decide which size of jar you are going to use and trace the top of the jar. Offset the spout so it’s close to the edge, but not right against the edge, because you need to give it a little space from the jar ring as indicated in the photo above.

Recycled Milk Carton Spout Snack and Beverage Holder

Cut along the traced line and discard the rest of the container.

Recycled Milk Carton Spout Snack and Beverage Holder

Apply the lid on top of the jar and screw on the ring. Tadah!

Now you’re ready to fill your jar. I have several of these jars and whenever I buy milk to make my Instant Pot Yogurt, I save the recycled milk carton spout for another lid.

Recycled Milk Carton Spout Snack and Beverage Holder

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Whether it’s a new recipe, a fun craft, or some handy tips for your garden and home, I hope to empower and inspire you with skills that you can use to create joy, improved health, and to do it in a simple way.

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DIY Plastic Shopping Bag Dispenser | Recycled Tissue Box

plastic shopping bag dispenser

As you know, I’m all about recycling and upcycling items when I can and when I use a plastic shopping bag, I save it. Although I do have a fabric plastic bag holder in my pantry I like having some bags accessible in my kitchen as well.  It is really easy to just stuff them in a drawer, but this can get a little junky and before I know it, I have a big plastic shopping bag mess. Do you have a drawer full of unruly shopping bags?

plastic shopping bags messy drawer
recycle

This plastic shopping bag dispenser is a quick and easy remedy that will be a game-changer when it comes to your bag organization and recycling efforts.

This plastic shopping bag dispenser will:

  • Save storage space
  • Create organization in your kitchen, pantry, and wherever else you store a plastic shopping bag
  • Give you easy access to a bag when you need it
  • Help reduce waste by recycling both a plastic shopping bag and a tissue box

Since the 1980s, disposable plastic shopping bags have provided a convenient way to bag groceries and carry purchases home. These plastic bags are relatively strong, incredibly cheap, waterproof, and, perhaps most importantly, made to be thrown away. HOWEVER, whether it is in your kitchen cupboard, the landfill, or the ocean, this plastic is piling up. NOT GOOD!

If you want more information about the current plastic recycling process that is going on, which is very enlightening, check out this post HERE.

What can we do as individuals? Reduce and reuse!

Here are some ideas

  • Purchase items with as little packaging as possible. 
  • Bring your own reusable plastic or fabric bags. MAKE YOUR OWN GROCERY BAGS OUT OF AN UPCYCLED T-SHIRT
  • Opt for recyclable glass and metal options when they are available.
  • Eliminate plastic wrap by using containers or “bees waxed” cloth.
  • Reuse the last of the old plastic shopping bags you’ve got in that drawer at home AND organize them with your new tissue box dispenser!
plastic shopping bag tissue box

How to make a plastic shopping bag dispenser

All you need is an empty tissue box and the bags you are going to put inside. You don’t even need a pair of scissors.

plastic shopping bag dispenser

1-Take a plastic shopping bag and stuff it in the tissue box horizontally WITH THE HANDLES STICKING UP.

plastic shopping bag handles

2-Grab another plastic bag by the bottom and stuff it through the handles of the bag you just put in the box.

plastic shopping bag

3-Fold the bottom of the plastic shopping bag over the handles by about 3 inches.

plastic shopping bag drawer

4-Continue this process until you have placed all the plastic shopping bags you have into the box.

I was able to get 18 bags into the box with no problem and enough room for plenty more

plastic shopping bag pulling

Now every time you need a plastic bag you can just open your drawer and pull out a bag and it will feed the next one up just like tissue in a tissue box.

Ta-dah! Now wasn’t that simple! Look how much room you have created in that drawer and doesn’t it feel better?

Play Video

Let me know if you have any other great ideas on how to re-use and recycle a tissue box or a plastic shopping bag.

Other posts you may be interested in:

DIY Upcycled T-Shirt Bags | SEW and NO-SEW Methods 

 

UPCYCLED T-SHIRTS: 

 

Repurposed T Shirts – Cutting Out Tips

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DIY Upcycled T Shirt Bags | Sew and No-Sew Methods

DIY Upcycled T Shirt Bags

Recycling and upcycling is one of my passions, and making these t-shirt bags is another way to reduce waste and find another use for unwanted clothing. I love these bags! They make great grocery bags, activity bags, and you can even use them as a purse if you want. You will be surprised how durable they are!!

Making and using these DIY T-Shirt bags is great way to reduce waste and recycle unwanted clothing. They make great grocery bags, activity bags, and you can even use them as a purse if you want. You will be surprised how durable they are!!

These bags are super easy and quick to make (10 minutes), and it will help to reduce the pollution of shopping bags. Did you know that one hundred billion grocery bags are used in the United States each year?  This means that the average American family gets 1,500 bags from shopping trips. That’s NOT OK!

That’s a lot of bags. Even if they make it into the garbage, 100 billion bags take up space. Whether they’re stuck in a tree, floating in the breeze or sitting in a trash pile, these bags don’t decompose. Because they’re made from petroleum, toxic chemicals can seep into soil and water.

 

Pollution on land is a problem, but what about these bags when they get in the ocean?  It’s dangerous to animals. Sea turtles, marine mammals and fish confuse the bags with prey, such as jellyfish, and eat the plastic imposters. Ingestion of these bags can lead to malnutrition, and eventually, starvation. Bags can also become caught on waterfowl or coral and wrap around the animals, causing injury or death.

Ok, I think you get the picture. Making and using these upcycled t-shirt bags will help reduce plastic bag pollution. I love that, and I love upcycling t-shirts as most of you know.

I am going to show you two different methods. A no-sew method (in case you don’t have access to a sewing machine) and a simple sewing method.  I prefer the sewing method myself because it is a lot faster!

Let’s jump right into the tutorial.

Upcycled T-Shirt Items & Materials Needed

  • T-shirt
  • Scissors
  • Masking tape (optional no-sew method)
  • Sewing machine/serger (sewing method)
  • Fabric clips/pins (sewing method)

T-Shirt Bag Instructions

NO-SEW METHOD

  • Turn the t-shirt wrong side out.
  • Cut off the sleeve just inside the arm seam.
  • Fold the shirt in half lengthwise.
  • Cut out the bag opening by cutting a deeper neck line. (About the depth of the armholes).
  • Decide how deep you want the bag to be +3 inches/7.5 cm. Cut the bottom off if you want it shorter. You’ll really only need to shorten if you are using a very larger t-shirt.
  • Measure 3 inches/7.5 cm from the bottom of the shirt, take a piece of masking tape or painter’s tape and apply it to the shirt to mark this point.
  • Cut little slits along the bottom of the shirt up to the tape line, ½ -3/4 inches/1 cm apart.
  • Starting from one side, tie one strip from the front to the adjacent strip on the back in a double knot. Continue tying knots until the bottom is all tied.

There will be little holes between the knots. To close those up, take one tie from the first knot and tie it to one of the ties of the second knot in a diagonal manner. Do this to all the knots.

Reinforce the end knots by tying them again.

Flip right side out and there you have it.

T-Shirt Bag Sewing Method

  • Follow the steps for the no-sew method, but instead of cutting the strips, simply sew the bottom closed.

 

  • Set your sewing machine to a LIGHTNING BOLT STITCH or SMALL ZIGZAG STITCH. (SHORT & NARROW).

You can use a serger if you have one.

  • Make a tuck/pleat in the bottom of the bag by folding the sides of the shirt over about 4 inches/10 cm. Clip or pin in place.
  • Use about a ½ inch seam allowance. Sew across the bottom, backstitching at the beginning and end of the seam.
  • Turn right side out and ta-dah you’re all finished. Such an easy project.

Get in your closet and find some t-shirts you no longer want or need and MAKE T-shirt BAGS!

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Cool Zipper Upcycling

zipper recycling youmakeitsimple.com

As many of you know I’m really into upcycling and recycling items, and clothing is one of them. In this tutorial, I’m going to show you how to deconstruct an item of clothing for some really cool zipper upcycling.

Benefits of Zipper Upcycling

  • You can save a little money
  • Avoid a trip to the fabric store
  • Recycle material (which is always a good thing for the planet)
  • You can have a better selection of zipper colors
  • Add a professional and unique look to your sewing projects by using zippers with zipper pulls that have a little character and charm. It’s hard to find zippers at the store with cool zipper pulls.

What Kind of Zippers To Look For

  • As mentioned before, look for zippers that have unique ZIPPER PULLS.  (There are some cute vintage, leather, metal, beaded, and fabric pulls out there on existing clothing). Keep your eye out!
  • Unique colors of zippers    
  • Good, sturdy zippers for projects that require a DURABLE ZIPPPER
  • All sizes of zippers (short, long and extra-long)
  • Zippers that are in good condition and are free of stains
  • Separating zippers and non-separating zippers

Items To Use For Zipper Upcycling 

If you are getting rid of an item that you no longer want or need and it has a COOL ZIPPER in it, save it!  I have been known to buy items at the thrift store just for the zipper. YEP! There are all kinds of items that you can find a zipper in.

  • Clothing
  • Bags & purses are a good place to find heavy-duty, DURABLE ZIPPERS.
  • Couch and chair slipcovers have LONG ZIPPERS.
  • Jacket & Coats
  • Sweaters can even have fun zippers in them

How To Deconstruct Clothing For Zipper Upcycling

All you’ll need is a pair of FABRIC SCISSORS, a SEAM RIPPER, and YOUR ITEM OF CLOTHING.

  1. zipper upcycling cut out of clothesCut the zipper out of the clothing. This makes the process so much easier! There is less bulk to work with and if you don’t feel like unpicking right then, you can save it in your zipper bin and unpick it later.
  2. zipper upcycling seam rippingTake the end of the zipper and pull the fabric away from the zipper to expose the stitches. Slide the tip of the seam ripper into one or more of the stitches and cut the threads. Pull the zipper tape away from the fabric to expose more stitches. (The first stitches are the hardest to navigate).
  3. Zipper upcycling unpickingContinue ripping threads and pulling all the way down the zipper. (Sometimes you can rip both sides of the zipper seam at the same time).  Remove any cut threads that are lingering on the zipper and place the zipper in a bin or use the zipper straight away on a fun sewing project or craft.

Zipper upcycling is the BEST! Stay tuned. I’ll be sharing some fun ways to use your upcycled zippers both on sewing and craft projects! 

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Happy Upcycling!

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Upcycling Love | Thrift Store & Consignment Shopping Tips

upcycled love thrift store items

Upcycling and recycling used items is one of my passions and something I do frequently. Thrift stores, consignment shops and garage sales are just a few places where you can find items to repurpose. In this post I am going to give you some awesome tips on what to look for, and some ideas on how to use the items you find.

Upcycling, recycling, repurposed; what does that mean and what’s the difference?

These words are thrown around all the time and in ways mean the same thing, however there are a few distinct differences. Let’s go over them.

RECYCLING

Recycling is the process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects. This process usually involves breaking the product down and making something else with it.

Some examples include: changing glass, paper, cardboard, metal, plastic, tires, textiles, batteries, and electronics into something else.

UPCYCLING

Upcycling, also known as creative reuse, is the process of transforming  useless, or unwanted products into new materials or products of better quality and environmental value. The keyword here is TRANSFORMING.

I love transforming things! There is something so fun about taking an item that is normally used for one thing and using it for another purpose.

Some examples include:

Taking a wool sweater, felting it down and making mittens from them. The sweater was originally used as clothing to keep you warm, and the new product is still clothing, but now it is used to keep your hands warm. Another example would be to take a piece of furniture and changing the paint color or even altering its size or shape.

REPURPOSING

Repurposing is simply using a product to serve another purpose.  Some examples include:

  • Tin bucket as a plant pot
  • An old tin mug normally used for drinking and using it to put paint brushes or pencils in.
  • Using a metal garden rake to hang jewelry on.
  • A wire bike basket to store and display magazines.

What are the benefits of recycling, upcycling and repurposing?

  • Keeps the Earth beautiful
  • Conserves natural resources
  • Saves money and energy
  • Reduces harmful greenhouse gases

Although there are small differences between each of these processes, they all share a common goal of being environmentally-friendly. Upcyling and recycling will not only save you money and save the planet; you can add some cute authentic style to your wardrobe and your home.

Here are a few ideas and tips on how I go about upcycling and recycling.

BE SURE TO WATCH THE VIDEO FOR SOME GREAT UPCYCLING IDEAS!

UPCYCLING CLOTHING

It’s pretty obvious that you can take a used piece of clothing and instead of throwing it away; you can either give it away or sell it for someone else to use. On the flip side, instead of buying new clothing, you can purchase used clothing at a lower rate and save it from being put in the landfill.

Thrift stores, consignment shops and yard sales are all great places to shop for used clothing.

TIPS:

  • Look for stains, holes and strong smells, and avoid these items.
  • Check the fabric content. I personally avoid clothing that you have to dry clean.
  • If you need a pair of shorts, you can always cut off a pair of pants and hem them. (It really is quite easy to do) I have an old tutorial that shows you how. I will be recording a new tutorial soon, so watch out for that.
  • Look for unique style and colors of clothing. (The knit shirt in the photo above, has the cutest grommet snaps)
  • Thoroughly clean items before wearing.

USING CLOTHING FOR FABRIC

What? Yes, I do this all the time. You can simply take an item of clothing and cut it up and make something else with the fabric. Some examples:

TIPS:

  • The bigger the item of clothing, the better. Depending on what you are making, you are going to get more yardage of fabric if you buy the XL or XXL (if you’re lucky).
  • Check fabric content. If you are making a felted wool project, you’ll want to at least have 70% wool. Get more tips on that here.
  • Large dresses and skirts have a lot of fabric yardage.
  • Check clearance racks at stores for new clothing as well as used clothing. I buy a lot of nice new clothing that are on the clearance rack to make other things with. It can be cheaper than buying new fabric.
  • I recommend getting a large bin to put clothing you will be using for fabric and label the container so you don’t get them confused with out of season clothing.
  • Thoroughly clean items before disassembling for sewing projects.
  • Here are some more ideas for upcycled jeans.

HOW TO GET RID OF THRIFT STORE SMELL

Vinegar

Add 1 cup of white distilled vinegar to your normal wash cycle, either hot or cold water. It will freshen and deodorize all of your clothing in your normal wash. If the clothes still smell, repeat. It may take a few wash loads to clear some smells, but it does work. (No worries, your clothes will not smell like vinegar once they are dried).

BAKING SODA

Baking soda is a great way to get rid of smells everywhere. (This is obviously okay for cotton and polyester, but you may want to do a patch test with other fabrics, such as rayon or cashmere sweaters.).

  • Lay the clothes on a towel or sheet, then sprinkling baking soda all over the clothing.
  • Add the piece of clothing to a large zip top plastic bag. Add baking soda to the bag, seal and shake to coat the clothes.
  • Leave the baking soda on at least an hour. Wash the clothes afterwards.

BUYING CLOTHING FOR ACCESSORIES

You can find some cool accessories on clothing to reuse. I’ve been known to buy pieces of clothing for the buttons, zippers, or even the trim. It doesn’t make sense to do this unless the item is on sale or free.

Before I throw a piece of clothing out, I always check to see if it has any cool accessories that I can take off and save.

TIPS:

  • Look for zippers that are unique. Zippers can easily be removed from items of clothing. Using a stylish zipper can really add a lot of charm to your homemade clothing and accessories.
  • Store disassembled hardware in a box where you can easily find them.
  • Keep button is a big jar. Not only will you have some fun buttons for sewing, but you can use them to embellish a lot of craft projects.
  • You can use the hardware from used purses and bags.

UPCYCLING JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES

You can find a lot of cute jewelry at consignment shops and even thrift stores.

This is a good place to find used belts and hats.

TIPS:

  • Look for items that are unique and good quality.
  • Don’t be discouraged by tarnished silver items because they can easily be buffed with a special cloth or liquid.
  • Thoroughly clean items before wearing or using.

UPCYCLING FURNITURE

I must admit that most of my household furniture is either upcycled or purchased on clearance or from the “scratch and dent” section. We always buy new mattresses, and couches, but almost everything else was a DIY or an upcyling project. I guess that’s what you get when you come from a family of ‘DO IT YOURSELFERS”.

My husband and I have transformed some pretty cool furniture over the years. I’m lucky to have a husband who is so handy.

TIPS:

  • Look for good quality both in materials and how it was made.
  • A lot of new chests of drawers are built so poorly and with cheap materials. That is one item that I like to buy used and refinish.  
  • Look for furniture that has “good bones”. By this I mean, has good form and style. It may not be the right color, but that is something that is can easily be changed.
  • If you don’t like the hardware on a piece of furniture, you can purchase new and change it out. Putting a new set of drawer pulls can really change the look of a chest.
  • My husband took this huge television cabinet and cut it down so it wasn’t so deep and made a cute cabinet for our bathroom. We put new handles on it and cut out a section in the doors, gave it a new color of paint, and look how cute it turned out. (The orange cabinet in the photo above).

KITCHEN GADGETS AND BOTTLES

There are a lot of fun ways to use old kitchen gadgets and bottles.

  • I used this old tin to put my paintbrushes in.
  • I have a thing for tall skinny bottles. They make really cute vases and can also be used to store small sewing supplies and office supplies.
  • Canning jars can be used for all kinds of things. In my kitchen, I use the pint size for drinking glasses. They also work well to store nuts, seeds and other pantry items. A pint size jar works well to store pencils and pens in. I have one on each of my desks.

TIPS:

UPCYCLING SHOES

I’m not one to buy a lot of used shoes. I know everyone has their own thoughts about this one. I will purchase used shoes that have been VERY lightly worn. You can find a lot of good, lightly worn shoes at a much lower price.

Where is a good place to shop for used items?

Some of the places to look for used items are: consignment shops, thrift stores, yard and garage sales.

Here is my receipt for my purchases at the consignment shop. (Watch the video below to see what good finds I found this day at the consignment shop).

  • 3 pairs of nice shoes
  • 2 adorable shirts
  • pair of aqua color jeans that I’m going to cut off and hem for shorts
  • 2 pair of earrings

Not bad! 

What is the difference between a consignment shop and thrift store?

THRIFT STORES

The majority of thrift stores are donation based and center on a charity or non-profit organization. Although donating truly ruined items is discouraged, damaged, heavily worn, and flawed items are relatively common. Items are sorted and priced by volunteers, then sent to the sales floor where they are bought by shoppers.

CONSIGNMENT SHOPS

Consignment stores are where members bring in gently used items for evaluation, and the buyers look them over to determine if they are likely to sell well from that particular shop. If the items are deemed a good risk, the shop will sell them and the shop owner takes a percentage of the sale.  Some shops will pay up front.

Play Video

If you’ve never been in a consignment or thrift store, I encourage you to open your mind and take a step inside. Upcycle, recycle and repurpose, you’ll be glad you did.

I hope this was helpful and that you have some new ideas for upcycling.

Please feel free to share some of your upcycled ideas on my Instagram. Tag it #fibersandtwigs

HAPPY UPCYCLING!

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DIY Dog Sweater: Simple Upcycled Sewing Project

Keep your pooch warm with style in an upcycled dog sweater. I know some dogs really don’t need a sweater to go outside, but they sure look cute don’t they? My border collie actually likes wearing a sweater, even though with all that fluff, he really doesn’t need it. However, there are some breeds of dogs that could use that extra layer in the cold winter months.

So if you have an old sweater kicking around, this is an easy sewing project that you can make in no time at all. Even a beginner seamstress can make this. I give instructions on how to make this with a regular sewing machine and a serger.

Here are a few before and after shots.

I suppose you could make a sweater for your cat as well.

 

You can use all types of sweaters. The top sweater was made using a cotton sweater and the little red and black one was made from a felted wool sweater. You can also use upcycled sweatshirts and regular fleece fabric as well.

Sizes included in the pattern:

*Measure around your pet’s chest. Breeds indicated are for reference only as breed sizes may vary.

dog sweater Items and Materials Needed

  • Pattern downloaded and printed.
  • Upcycled Sweater, or sweatshirt (fleece fabric could work as well)
  • Sewing machine, Serger (optional)
  • Pins
  • Scissors
  • 2 inch strip of fleece for binding (optional)

Watch the full video tutorial HERE

Play Video

You may also be interested in some other upcycled sweater projects, check them out HERE.

Let me know if you ever have any questions or comments below. I would love to see what you’re making! 

Have fun sewing!

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Upcycled T Shirts – Ideas and Tips

Do you have a t shirt that you love, but it doesn’t fit anymore or has gone out of style?  Give it a second life by making something else out of it. Here are some great upcycled t shirts ideas and tips.

Knits are “sew” fun to work with and there are so many fun things you can make with them, especially children’s clothing.

Although, nowadays, little kids’ t-shirts are usually cheaper just to buy already made, than to purchase a pattern and fabric (not to mention the time involved).

However, if you already have an existing shirt to use for fabric, and an EASY pattern, then making something can be quite fun and save you a lot of money!

Have you priced good-quality interlock knits lately?  They are not cheap and the selection is usually poor.

This piece of knit with 5 % spandex was $12.99 yard.

So if you have a shirt that has good quality fabric, good colors, and design, and you don’t wear it anymore, MAKE SOMETHING COOL WITH IT!

Here are a few ideas of what to do with upcycled t-shirts:

Here are a few before and after photos

 

polka dot knit shirt upcycled t shirts

I used this polka dot shirt to make a skirt……..

repurposed t shirts before

……….. and this shirt to make a comfy double fold yoga waistband for the skirt.

Ta-dah!  I added a cute green pom pom trim on the bottom and look what a cute whimsy skirt these upcycled shirts made.

You can get the pattern for this skirt HERE.

Felted wool sweater strips make up this cute skirt. (pattern can be purchased in my Shop).

I used this shirt for the waistband.

This purple turtle neck wasn’t the most attractive shirt to wear, however, it was good fabric and worked really nicely for the yoga waistband on this simple fleece skirt.

So instead of going in the trash, or to the thrift store, this shirt came in real handy!

I love cutting strips of t-shirts and winding them up into a ball. Not only do they look cute sitting in a basket, but there are a lot of fun things to make with strips of knit shirts.

Here is a link to a video tutorial on how to cut up the shirt into t-shirt yarn.

Go to Pinterest and type in the search ” t-shirt strips” and you’ll find all kinds of fun things to make.

If you haven’t seen my post on how to make these adorable baby beanies from upcycled t-shirts, you can find it HERE.

In a previous post, I show and give some tips on how to cut out t-shirts to get them ready for projects and how to use the fabric for other things.

 

So, that was a mouth full. I hope you find it inspiring and gives you a few ideas.

Have fun sewing my friends!

 

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Jan Howell

Jan Howell

Whether it’s a new recipe, a fun craft, or some handy tips for your garden and home, I hope to empower and inspire you with skills that you can use to create joy, improved health, and to do it in a simple way.

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Upcycled Denim Jeans – Ideas and Tips

Do you have a bin of denim jeans that you have been saving? It’s time to get them out and make something fun with them. There are so many simple things that you can make using Upcycled denim jeans. It is a durable fabric that can add a lot of classic style to quilts, bags and other fun projects.

Here are a few fun upcycled denim jeans projects I found on Pinterest.

This was one of my most favorite projects to make with upcycled jeans. I have made two of these. You can find the tutorial for the patchwork quilt in the link below.
Upcycled Denim Jeans

 Skirt

 

The list of things you can do with a pair of  denim jeans is ENDLESS.

Upcycled Denim : How to deconstruct a pair of jeans for recycling projects

To get the most yardage out of a pair of jeans, I came up with a system on how to cut them open so they are easier to work with.

Lay the pair of  jeans out and cut along the inner leg seam, just on the outside of the seam allowance.

 

Keep cutting around the crotch and down the other side.

 

Now cut the front open, along the side of the zipper.

 

Cut the back open, cutting up along the side of the back center seam.

 

You will have two separate pieces that lay open and flat.

 

Now you have better access to cut out whatever it is you are making with your denim pieces.

I like saving the cute tags form jeans to embellish other sewing projects.

Simply unpick and top stitch on other projects.

Get yourself a bin and start saving the jeans that no longer fit or have a few stains or holes, and give them another life.

Keep Smiling,

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Jan Howell

Jan Howell

Whether it’s a new recipe, a fun craft, or some handy tips for your garden and home, I hope to empower and inspire you with skills that you can use to create joy, improved health, and to do it in a simple way.

Read More

A Good Day at the Thrift Store – Wool Sweaters

I have been driving around with a bin full of donation items to take to the thrift store for about a month now. Today while I was out and about I decided to drop them off. It felt great to let that stuff go, however I just couldn’t pass up a quick stroll through the store. I had to go in and see if they had any “good” used wool sweaters for all my upcycling projects. I am afraid it is an addiction. An upcycled wool sweater is the best!

It’s not very often that I find a lot of “good” wool sweaters, but today was my lucky day. Not only do I rarely find a lot of nice sweaters to felt, but GREEN ones. I love green, and a green wool is even better! Shades of green just come in handy for so many of my upcycled projects and designs. Today I hit the jackpot.

The best time to pick up sweaters is in the summer at garage or tag sales. Stores will start putting them on sale in the spring.

So what defines a “good” sweater?

Well on my terms, a good sweater is:

  • One that has at least 70% wool content. (This allows them to shrink up real nice and tight).
  • Has unique, rich colors
  • The bigger the better (Men XL size sweaters give you more yardage).
  • Has fun stripes or simple designs on the sweaters.

Things to avoid when purchasing a wool sweater:

  • Look out for holes.  Especially when purchasing wool sweaters.
  • Really bulky sweaters. When you felt the sweater it will get even bulkier. Depending on your project, too bulky sweaters can be hard to work with.  However, sometimes there may be a need for a real thick nap).
  • Too thin of a sweater. (Again, depending on your project)  Cashmere sweaters are usually thin and very soft. This type of sweater is great for hand warmers and ponchos, but not so great for a pair of slippers.
  • Think about your inventory. Don’t overspend on colors you already have a ton of or on sweaters that are just so, so. Resist the need to buy every wool sweater you find or you will end up with bins and bins of sweaters. (Believe me, sweaters take up a lot of room).

If you are not familiar with how to “felt” (shrink and tighten the fibers of your sweater), here is a link to a FREE online course that I teach. You’ll love it!

This is such a great time of the year to get out your felted sweaters and make something fun. If you live where it is cold right now, like I do, there are tons of things to make with felted wool.

Mittens, HATS, Scarfs, HAND WARMERS, slippers, Valentine Heart Hand Warmers and HEARTS, Bunnies & Bears, Baby Toys, flowers, BAGS, and even birds.

Don’t forget to save your scraps when cutting out your upcycled wool sweater felted wool projects. There are a lot of fun things to make with this crafting gold!

 

So get out your wool sweater stash. (If you don’t have one yet, after one felted sweater project you soon will have one). An upcycled sweater is fun stuff to work with!

Get out your scissors, sewing machines and turn on some soothing music, or a good podcast, and enjoy a day of creation!

The patterns to make most of these projects can be located in my Etsy shop or here on my website.

here are some more sweater upcycled wool sweater posts you may be interested in.

Let me know if you have any questions or any great tips to share.

Sweater Mittens – Easy Sewing Project for Your Favorite Valentine!

sweater mittens

Valentine’s day is upon us and these sweater mittens are a great sewing project for your favorite Valentine!

Keep your hands warm with style!

For those of you who follow me, you know how much I love making things with upcycled wool sweaters. Mittens are one of my most favorite things to make.

I have two different mitten patterns. One is for adults and a large child. The other pattern is for children and infants. The patterns are in PDF format and you can download them INSTANTLY.

Not sure which size you will need? Check out this post which will help you measure the hand you are sewing to get the correct size.

sweater mittens size chart

Adult Size sweater mitten pattern

The pattern includes adult sizes XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, and XX small (child size large).

Infant & Child sweater mitten pattern

We can’t forget the little hands!

Same cozy design as the adult sizes, but this pattern has been modified for small hands, including a basic infant mitten without the thumbs. Made for hands smaller than 5 inches.

Where can you get the sweater mitten patterns?

The easy-to-follow, printable sweater mittens pattern can be purchased here in my craftsy shop, or in my Etsy shop.
 

Is it easier for you to learn by watching a video tutorial?

I’ve got you covered with this video tutorial! I have three platforms where this video is available.
  •  Skillshare. Read more about it here. (Skillshare membership required).
  • Teachable (no membership required)
  • YouTube  
 
For information on how to measure your hand correctly, you can check out the post here.
 
If you are interested in making some other upcycled sweater projects, you can check these out.
 
 

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