upcycled sweater projects Archives

How To Make Charming Heart Gift Tags With Upcycled Sweater Scraps

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and in this tutorial, I’m going to show you how to make these charming heart gift tags using upcycled sweater scraps. I hope you’ve been saving these little fabric gems that you have leftover from your other upcycled sweater project.

It goes to show you that even the smallest pieces of felted wool sweaters can be made into some pretty cute things! Add a string of jute or ribbon and you have a tag that is unique and something that you don’t see every day.

I’m going to show you how to easily cut out a small heart freehand, a few ways you can apply it to a card, and show you how to sew several hearts together to make a HEART GARLAND.

Instructions for Cutting out Heart Gift Tags

If you want, you can create a small heart pattern with paper. However, I find just eyeballing and cutting is much easier due to the small size of the hearts.

Take a piece of sweater fabric and fold it in half. You’ll only be cutting out the shape of a half heart. Start at the bottom point of the heart. You can make these as wide and as tall as you want. You may want to practice on a folded piece of paper to get the hang of it. It really is quite easy.

Heart Gift Tags Paper Prep

Decide how big you want the tag or card to be and cut out a piece of cardstock to that size. You can make the tag be a folded card or a single-layer tag.

Heart Application

There are a few ways to apply the hearts to the paper. The first one is to just glue it on using a simple glue stick or craft glue.

Another way is to SEW IT ON. Yep, you can use your sewing machine to sew a simple line down the center of the heart. This gives the card a unique look and allows the sides of the heart to flop a bit, which I find to be really cute and different. TIP: to avoid thread nesting on the underside of the fabric, hold your thread for the first couple of stitches and then let go.

If you want to add a ribbon or tie to the heart gift tags, simply use a paper punch.

Fold the ribbon in half and insert the folded end into the hole. Stick the cut ends into the loop and pull to tighten. Tie the heart gift tag to your gift bag. SO CUTE!

How to Make a Heart Garland

Another thing you can do is make a vertical heart garland by sewing several hearts together. You can do this by hand sewing, but using a sewing machine makes it a snap.

Start by pulling out about 5 inches of thread from your machine.

Take a fabric heart and start sewing at the upper notch of the heart down to the point of the heart. DO NOT CUT THE THREADS!

Turn the handwheel of your sewing machine toward you to bring the needle in the uppermost position. Lift up the presser foot and pull the sewn heart back until you have the distance between hearts that you want.

Sew another heart in the same manner and continue with this process until you have a heart garland the length you desire.

These heart garlands are adorable hanging from a doorknob or on the wall.

There you have it; another fun way to use up those small pieces of felted sweaters. These heart gift tags are not only for Valentine’s Day but make cute additions to baby gift wrappings and other gifts.

Be sure to check out my other Valentine crafts and gifts.

DIY Valentine Heart Branches / Love Grows on Trees / Easy Craft Tutorial

DIY Valentine Paint Chip Bookmark / Kid Friendly Craft

Paper Heart Garlands: Made From Recycled Magazines

Heart Lollipops: Made with Upcycled Sweaters & Felt

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

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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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DIY Valentine Paint Chip Bookmark / Kid Friendly Craft

January 20, 2022 / Craft Video, CRAFTS, Gifts and Cards, Holiday and Seasonal Crafts, Paper, Valentine’s Day, VIDEO AND AUDIO LIBRARY / No Comments

DIY Valentine Heart Branches / Love Grows on Trees / Easy Craft Tutorial

January 15, 2022 / Craft Video, CRAFTS, DIY HOME, Holiday and Seasonal Crafts, Holidays and Seasonal Sewing, Home Decor, Paper, SEWING, Valentine’s Day, VIDEO AND AUDIO LIBRARY / No Comments

Paper Heart Garlands: Made From Recycled Magazines

February 6, 2020 / Craft Video, CRAFTS, Holiday and Seasonal Crafts, Paper, Tutorials, Valentine’s Day, VIDEO AND AUDIO LIBRARY / No Comments

Heart Lollipops: Made with Upcycled Sweaters & Felt

January 25, 2020 / Craft Video, CRAFTS, Felt Crafts, Free Craft Patterns, Holiday and Seasonal Crafts, Tutorials, Upcycled Sweater Craft Projects, VIDEO AND AUDIO LIBRARY / No Comments

gift bags gift ideas gift wrapping upcycled sweater projects upcycled sweater scraps Valentine Ideas Valentine's day Valentine's day gifts

DIY Sweater Pumpkins / Made With Upcycled Clothing

There’s a little nip the air, and that means pumpkins and wearing sweaters. But as most of you already know, wearing sweaters is not what gets me excited; it’s MAKING THINGS WITH SWEATERS that makes me smile.

In this sewing tutorial I am going to show you how to make these fun, whimsy upcycled DIY sweater pumpkins. These pumpkins can be made with felted wool sweaters, cotton sweaters, orange knit, and even fleece. They have so much character; each one turns out a little different and is sure to bring a smile to anyone who sees them.

I am not a big fan of Halloween decor, but I do like to decorate with pumpkins and leaves. So you can put these out for Halloween and leave them sitting around for Thanksgiving.

Don’t limit your color options to just ORANGE sweaters or fabric, look how cute they are made up using a yellow and even a brown sweater. A little whimsy, fun and something you don’t see every day.

You can make these DIY sweater pumpkins with upcycled sweaters, t-shirt fabric, and even fleece. They are quite easy to make and you can even sew these by hand if you don’t have a sewing machine. (Learn some easy and basic hand sewing skills here).

The pumpkin leaves are made with two different shades of green felt and this layering technique that I’ll show you, really adds a unique look.

The pattern comes with two different sizes of pumpkins and can be downloaded and printed out so you can save and use it as much as you want.

DIY Sweater Pumpkins Materials & Items Needed

Sewing machine or you can sew by hand with a needle and thread.
Felted Wool sweaters or mixed fiber sweaters work as well, knit or fleece
Pins
Scissors
Fiberfill Stuffing
Two shades of green felt
2-3 inch length of thin tree branch
Hot glue gun/glue
Green 18- 20 gauge cloth stem wire or green craft pipe cleaners
Needle
Dual Duty Heavy Thread or /Upholstery thread
Pattern and leaf template

If using upcycled wool sweaters read and watch this video for some great tips.

DIY Sweater Pumpkins Instructions

1 – Cut out 6 sweater pumpkin panels.

They can be all the same color or mix and match colors and fabrics.

2 -Using the leaf template, cut out one light green leaf and one dark green leaf.

Sewing Sweater Pumpkins Leaf

3 – Stack the leaves on top of each other, with the dark leaf on top.

Using the leaf template as a visual, sew the leaf veins using a straight stitch on the sewing machine.

You don’t need to be too particular. You can draw the lines lightly with a pencil if you feel you need a pattern or just free sew it. Clip threads.

4 -Apply a strip of hot glue or craft glue along the back center vein of the leaf.

Place the stem wire onto the leaf.

Sewing Sweater Pumpkins

5 – With Right Sides Together (RST) place two of the pumpkin panels together and pin in place.

Sew from tip to tip and backstitch.

6 – Sew the third panel to the two you just sewed together with (RST).

Set that set aside while you sew the next three together. You should have two sets of three panels.

7 – With (RST) place the two pieces together. Line up the top and bottom tips and pin them in place.

Starting on one of the side panels, start sewing around the circle. (You will be leaving about a 3 inch opening for stuffing).

Take your time when going over the top and bottom tips where all the pieces come together. Make sure the seams line up. Go slow so you don’t break a needle!

8 – Trim the bottom and top tips.

Stuffing the Sweater Pumpkins

9 – Stuff the pumpkin through the hole you left.

10-Sew opening closed.

Double thread a needle with matching thread and slip stitch the opening closed.

*I have a little tutorial on how to do the slip stitch. You can locate HERE

11-Making pumpkin contour

Double thread a LONG needle with upholstery thread so it is about 20 inches in length and knot the end.

To plump out and give the top indent: Stick the needle into the top center end poke the needle through the pumpkin to the bottom. You will have to pinch the top and bottom together to find the needle. Just gently keep poking until it pokes through the center bottom.

12- Repeat this back and forth a few times until you get the plumpness you desire.

End at the top and take a little stitch and knot. Don’t worry about the knot showing, as it will be covered up by the stem.

Adding Sweater Pumpkin Stem

13- Cut tree branch.

Get out your tree pruners and go out in your yard and find a thin tree branch that looks suitable for a pumpkin stem and cut about two inches off.

Apply a big dab of hot glue in the top indent of the pumpkin and stick your branch in and secure place.

14- Wrap the wire around the stem several times and then wrap the other end around a pencil to make the curly vine.

Pull the pencil out and you are finished!

I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do. If you have any questions, please reach out.

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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.

Halloween decoration recycled sweater sweater pumpkin upcycled clothing upcycled sweater projects upcycled sweaters

How To Make Beaded Coasters From Upcycled Sweaters

upcycled sweater beaded coasters youmakeitsimple.com

Coasters do more than protect your tables and counters. They can also add a pop of color to your room and give your cup of coffee or tea a happy place to land. In this tutorial, I’m going to show you how to make beaded coasters from upcycled sweaters.

Adding beads around the edges using the BLANKET STITCH, really gives the coasters texture and color. You can make them any shape you desire, however, I have the FREE PDF download for the circle and heart that you can get HERE.

This is a fun, relaxing, and easy project AND a set of these make great gifts!

WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIAL BELOW

BEADED COASTERS ITEMS NEEDED

Upcycled felted wool sweater/thick pieces of felt can also be used. (I hope you’ve been saving your sweater scraps)!
Embroidery thread (2-3 yards) Quilting thread can also be used especially for smaller beads.
Embroidery needle (make sure the beads you are using will fit through the needle).
Scissors
Beads of your choice (glass seed beads are a good option)
Sewing machine for quilting (OPTIONAL)

BEADED COASTERS INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut out two circles (4.5 x 4.5 inches – 11.5 x 11.5 cm) * If you have a very thick felted sweater, only use one layer.
2. Separate the embroidery thread into 3 strands.
3. Thread the needle and knot the end.
4. Place the beads you want to use onto a spare piece of sweater or fabric to make loading beads easier.
5. Stack two circles on top of each other and line up the edges. If using the heart shape, start stitching at the notch of the heart.
6. Insert the needle between the two pieces of fabric about ¼ inch/ .5 cm from the edge. Take one stitch and poke the needle out at the edge of the fabric. Load a bead onto the needle and begin the BLANKET STITCH.
7. Take a stitch and make a loop, pull the needle through the loop MAKING SURE THE BEAD IS ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE THREAD. Pull the thread taught and load another bead.
8. Continue this process all the way around.
9. To finish, take a tiny stitch, knot the thread. Insert the needle into the fabric close to the stitch and out between the two layers. Cut the thread.

You can leave the coaster just like this or you can quilt it or embroider a design in the center to give it a more dense texture.

If you want to use the sewing machine, attach the quilting foot and free-sew whatever design you want.

That’s it! Make a set for yourself and make some for your friends!

I’d love to see what you come up with. Tag your finished coasters on Instagram . youmakeitsimple.

****If you want to know about FELTING WOOL SWEATERS, check out this post.

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

Connect:

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.

DIY Sweater Upcycling | How to Wash and Cut Sweaters for Upcycled Sewing Projects

November 8, 2025 / Upcycled Sweater Sewing Projects, Upcycled Sweater Videos, VIDEO AND AUDIO LIBRARY / 2 Comments

10 DIY Gift Ideas That You’re Going To Enjoy Making

October 28, 2023 / Christmas, Gifts and Cards, Holiday and Seasonal Crafts, Holidays and Seasonal Sewing, SEWING, Sewing Videos, Upcycled Sweater Sewing Projects / No Comments

How To Make a Tomato Pin Cushion // Free Pattern

August 9, 2022 / CRAFTS, Felt Crafts, Free Sewing Patterns, SEWING, Sewing Videos, Upcycled Sweater Sewing Projects, Upcycling, VIDEO AND AUDIO LIBRARY / No Comments

DIY Sweater Pumpkins / Made With Upcycled Clothing

September 4, 2021 / SEWING, Sewing Videos, Upcycled Sweater Sewing Projects, Upcycling, VIDEO AND AUDIO LIBRARY / No Comments

Coasters free sewing pattern Sewing tutorial upcycled sweater projects upcycled sweaters Valentine gifts

Simple Christmas Stocking Sewing Tutorial | Lined With Contrasting Cuff

Christmas is just around the corner and what a great time to get out your sewing machine and make some fun holiday decorations. This Christmas stocking sewing tutorial is a very simple project that you can whip up in no time at all. The stocking is lined and has a contrasting cuff.

You can make these stockings out of all kinds of fabric.

WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIAL HERE

Christmas Stocking Items & Materials Needed

Sewing machine/serger (optional)
PDF Pattern
Scissors
Upcycled Sweaters or fabric (cotton, cotton blends, corduroy, denim, fleece, etc.) Check out my upcycled sweater post for tips on using an upcycled sweater)
Lightweight fabric for OPTIONAL lining
Contrasting fabric for a cuff or the bottom cuff from an upcycled sweater
Pins/clips
Optional trim and embellishments

There are two different styles of the stocking. You can make them all one solid color, or piece several types of fabric together to get a patchwork design.

Christmas Stocking Instructions

Download and print the pattern. (Due to the size of the pattern, you will first need to assemble the pattern. Not a big deal).

Cutting Out

Two of the outer covering and two of the lining pieces.
One cuff piece, on the fold where indicated on the pattern. You can also use an upcycled sweater cuff. (The bottom edge of a sweater or the sleeve cuff can be used). If using a sweater cuff, you won’t need to double the fabric, so don’t place the pattern on the fold).

Loop piece, on the fold where indicated on the pattern

Sewing

You can use a serger or single needle machine to sew the Christmas stocking. All seams will be 3/8” (usually the edge of your pressure foot) and you will always backstitch at the beginning and end of seams unless directed otherwise.

With Right Sides Together (RST), place stocking front to back. Pin in place. Sew all the way around, leaving the top open.

CUFF:

Fold cuff piece in half (RST). Sew the side seam.

Fold the cuff over and in half so the right sides are facing out. (If you want to add lace or trim to the cuff, do it now)

With the seam on the left, press in place. Mark the halfway point with a pin, on the right.

PIECED STOCKING:

If you want a pieced look, like in the photo on top, follow the directions below. For a more rustic look, you can expose the seams on the outside of the stocking.
With (RST) place pieces A & B together matching darts. Pin in place and sew the seam.
Open the stocking up and with (RST) place on top of piece C, matching darts. Pin in place and sew the seam.
If you want more than three pieces sewn together, like the stocking on the left, you can sew several sweater strips together and then cut a front stocking piece.
Cut out a solid piece for the back.
Place these pieces (RST) matching seams and edges, pin in place. Sew all the way around leaving the top edge open.

LOOP:

Fold the loop piece in half (RST) along the long edge. Sew down the side seam.
Turn the tube inside out and press the seam to the center.
TIP: Take a safety pin and insert it into the fabric by the tube opening. Stick the pin in the tube and direct it to the opening at the other side. Pull it out and it will turn the fabric right side out!
Open up the loop, bringing the seam in the center, and press.
Fold the loop in half so the seam is on the inside.

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

With the WRONG SIDE OF THE LINING FACING OUT, stuff it inside the outer stocking and stick your hand down in it to line it up nicely. Line up the seams.

Place the loop on the stocking lining, centered on the back seam. Pin in place.
Baste the loop onto the stocking. (No need to backstitch) You will be sewing through the lining, stocking, and the loop

SEWING THE CUFF ONTO THE STOCKING

Place the cuff inside the stocking, with the RIGHT side facing the stocking. (If using a sweater cuff, the sweater cuff seam will be facing out and visible).
Align the cuff seam with the stocking seam. (There will be 4 layers, 3 if using a sweater cuff)
Pin in place.
Sew all the way around, through all layers. Stretch and ease sweater cuff as needed.

Flip the cuff over. Press seam towards the stocking.
Flip the cuff down and Ta-dah…….You are ready to hang your stocking!

There is no limit to the color and fabric combinations that you can do. Make a stocking for each one in the family!

Have fun sewing. Reach out if you have any questions.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

Connect:

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.

Easy DIY Mini Wreath | Made From Upcycled Sweaters

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DIY Recycled Magazine Christmas Tree

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How to Make a Dried Orange Slice Garland and Ornaments

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Upcycled Sweater Mistletoe Tutorial

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Christmas Christmas Stockings Sewing Sewing tutorial Upcycled denim jeans upcycled sweater projects

DIY Earphone Holder – It’s A Snap

I’m sure you know the scenario of tangled earphone cords, right? Well, I have the perfect solution for you: a DIY earphone cord holder made from upcycled materials, of course. It really is a SNAP! (Pun intended).

Here is a simple, quick method for keeping your earphone cords organized and tangle-free!

The great thing about this little project is that there is no sewing involved, and it takes only minutes to make. The key ingredient in this project is a snap.

I am totally in love with this new craft gadget, the KAM Snap System.

It is simple, and I love the bright-colored plastic snaps and their efficiency. I have had a box full of mismatched snaps and a variety of snap application tools sitting there because there are missing parts, and so many different sizes of parts. It’s overwhelming.

I got this new system (which is very reasonably priced) and pitched all the other stuff. AHHHHHHH, that felt good.

Now I have just one snap applicator and a bunch of cute, happy-colored snaps.

You can make these earphone cord holders using several different materials, but the ones I found most durable and effective are upcycled yoga mats and wool sweater fabric.

A thick, dense, good quality wool felt piece will work as well.

There are two different styles of holders: rectangular and heart-shaped.

Find out more about HOW TO FELT A WOOL SWEATER here.

EARPHONE CORD HOLDER MATERIALS & SUPPLIES

Free PDF Pattern (heart and rectangle style available)
Yoga Mat Scrap (Cut 3.5 inches x 1.25 inches) (8.5 x 3 cm)
Scissors
Snaps (Kam snap system) optional
Other snaps will work as well.
Snap Applicator
Awl

INSTRUCTIONS

CUTTING OUT: Using the pattern, cut out one piece. HEART DESIGN, fold the fabric in half and place the pattern on the fold where indicated.

If using a yoga mat, you’ll need to trim the mat using little snips to get a rounded edge.

SNAP APPLICATION: Follow the directions that come with your applicator.

Fold the fabric in half and line up edges. Using the awl, poke a hole through both layers where indicated on the pattern. (Wiggle the awl around a bit while inside to make the hole visible and easy to find).

SNAPS: You’ll need

2 pieces that look like tacks (snap back piece)
1 male snap
1 female snap

Open the fabric up and poke the snap back piece through the hole. Apply either the male or female snap on top of that. (Look for the little ridges of the snap, that is the side that goes towards the fabric).

Grab the snap applicator and place the SNAP BACK onto the applicator tray. (This should match the size of your snaps). It should fit snuggly to the snap. You’ll know when it snaps in place.

Make sure the snap front is aligned in the applicator before SQUEEZING. Give it a tight squeeze to clamp the snaps together. Bam, that’s it!

Repeat the process for the other snap.

Wind up your earphone cord and place it inside the holder. Snap is place. You’re good to go!

TIP: If you use your earphones frequently during the day at work or on the go, you can slip the holder around a belt buckle on your pants. It will hold your earphones in place.

You’ll love the simplicity of this. I hope it comes in handy for you as much as it has for me.

HERE are SOME OTHER POSTS YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN CHECKING OUT.

Carabiner Keychain Tutorial

Coupon Organizer

Have a fabulous day and remember to keep it simple!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

Connect:

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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earphone cord holder getting organized repurposed items upcycled sweater projects

DIY FELT CHERRIES Easy Sewing Tutorial

Summer has arrived, and it will soon be cherry season. This DIY felt cherries easy sewing tutorial is a fun little project that you can make in no time at all.

There are so many fun ways to use these bright, red gems.

Add a key chain and hang it on your purse or backpack.
Glue a magnet on the back and display them on your fridge,
or embellish your gift wrapping.

These cherries can be made using an upcycled red sweater, red fleece, red knit fabric, regular woven fabric, or felt scraps.

Felted wool sweater fabric really adds a unique charm to a set of cherries.

So get into your upcycled wool sweater stash and see if you can find a piece of red felted wool.

FELT CHERRIES MATERIALS AND ITEMS NEEDED:

Red Fabric
Stuffing
Needle & Thread (upholstery thread)
Scissors
7 inches Suede Chord (1/8 inch)
Key chain ring & Lobster clasp (optional)
Green felt
Glue Gun/Glue and or Tacky Glue
Small round magnet (fridge magnet)
Download and print the pattern

FELT CHERRIES INSTRUCTIONS

Cut Out

2 cherries from red fabric
One dark green rectangle and one leaf from light green felt
Cut a strip of cord to 7 inches.

Apply cord to ring, knotting in the center of cord. Set aside.

Single thread the needle and knot the end.

Using a running stitch, sew around the perimeter of cherry piece ¼ from the edge of the fabric with the knot on the inside of the fabric.

End by poking the needle to the outside, and leave it unknotted. Pull the thread to gather fabric and form a cup.

Insert stuffing into the formed cup. It doesn’t take a lot of stuffing.

Continue stitching around and around using the same seam allowance and pulling to cinch. This will eventually stay cinched.

Push the seam allowance into the inside and pull thread tight.

When the gathering stays cinched you can insert the end of one of the stems into to hole.

Push in about a ½. Sew around the stem and then insert the needle into and through the stem to secure it in place. (These may be a little challenging and will take a little force to poke it through).

Take some more stitches around until the stem is secured in place.

To knot, simply take a tiny stitch at the base of the thread leaving a little loop.

Wrap the needle around the loop and pull to form a knot.

Poke the needle back into the cherry and out the bottom. Cut the thread close to the fabric.

Repeat this process with the other cherry.

TO MAKE LEAF

There are several different ways to finish the leaf. You can just glue the two pieces together with a small leaf centered on top of the bigger leaf, or you can sew them together using a blanket stitch or embroidery the leaf veins using green embroidery floss.

● Center the small leaf on top of the dark green rectangle. Edge the small leaf using a blanket stitch on the sewing machine or sew by hand.
● Embroider the veins (optional).
● Cut out the leaf backing about a ¼ inch from the inner leaf edge.

Leaf Application

Using the hot glue gun, apply a small dab of glue onto the stem knot. Wrap the tip of the leaf around the stem knot and around the key ring. Pinch in place.

SEE THE LEAF TUTORIAL HERE

CHERRY FRIDGE MAGNET

Apply a dab of glue onto the back of a small round magnet and stick it to the back of the leaf.

Tadah! Now wasn’t that simple?

Have fun creating and let me know if you have any questions.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

Connect:

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.

felt projects gift ideas sewing pattern Sewing tutorial sewing video upcycled sweater projects upcycled sweaters upcycling

DIY Fabric Carrots Sewing Tutorial

It is almost Easter time, and what a great time to get out your sweater stash and make SWEATER carrots.

Yep, fabric CARROTS! What can’t you make out of upcycled sweaters? Now, if you are short on ORANGE SWEATERS or don’t have any felted orange sweaters, these work great with orange fleece and knits.

These make really fun Easter gifts and party favors.

****Carrots are NOT recommended for baby toys!

Cute to display with a SWEATER BUNNY! Bunny & Bear pattern located in my shop.

Fabric carrots items needed:

Orange fabric (felted sweaters, fleece, or knit). If using felted sweaters, ensure they are not too thick and have a little stretch.
Scissors
Pins
Carrot pattern template (download here)

Cloth stem wire (18-20 gauge)
Green felt, felted wool scrap, or even green fleece works (carrot greens), green yarn (optional)
Needle and thread
Stuffing

Fold the fabric over in a diagonal shape and place the pattern edge on the fold where indicated.

Cut out.

Place Right Sides Together (RST) and sew the side seam with a 1/4 inch seam allowance.

Turn inside out and poke the tip of the carrot out with some kind of point tool, being careful not to poke through the fabric.

To make the fabric carrot greens:

Using the pattern template, cut out 3-4 leaf squares. Sew the wire onto the middle of the leaf using a zigzag stitch. (template will show how far down to place the wire).

Cut little slits in the leaf all around the side and top of square.

Round off the top corners with your scissors.

Fluff the leaf. Repeat to make however many stems you want.

Start filling the carrot with stuffing, a little amount at a time.

Using something to push it down. I find the pokey tool slips through the stuffing and doesn’t push it down. (I found that using the tip of my scissors works well)

Continue to fill the sweater carrot with stuffing until it is complete.

Double thread a LONG needle with either orange, brown, or green thread.

(I like to use either brown or green to give the dimples in the carrot some contrast). Your preference.

Start stitching so the knot is on the INSIDE.

Take basting stitches all the way around the top of the carrot.

End stitching with the thread on the OUTSIDE.

Do not KNOT the thread yet.

Take the stems and stick them down the center of the carrot into the stuffing, to the length you want them.

Now pull the stitching to gather the top of the carrot.

Stuff the fabric seam allowance into the carrot as you put the thread.

Now stitch another row or two around the carrot to close the top tightly around the stems.

Take a little stitch where the thread comes out and knot.

(To make a knot, take a small stitch and pull the thread to make a little loop, then wrap the thread around the needle a few times and gently pull to create a knot.

Stick the needle back into the carrot right where the knot is and pull out where you want to make the first dimple.

To make little dimples in the sweater carrot:

Pull the needle out where you want the dimple to start and take a big stitch (these stitches can be small or even wrap around the carrot).

These dimples give the carrot its character and shape. I like to take two stitches in the same place to reinforce the stitch and give it more shape.

Stick the needle down into where you want another dimple to be. Add as many as you want.

Knot the thread again.

Now stick the needle back in where the thread comes out. Poke out somewhere and clip the thread.

Ta dah!

Aren’t they cute little fellas?

The pattern template comes with two different sizes. Make up a bunch of sizes and some with different shades of orange.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

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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.

Tissue Paper Blossoms | Quick & Simple Craft

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DIY FELT CHERRIES Easy Sewing Tutorial

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Hello Spring – It’s PLANNER Sticker Time

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5 DIY Easter Projects

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Heart Lollipops: Made with Upcycled Sweaters & Felt

Here it is almost Valentine’s Day, and that means craft time to me. I am always looking for new things to make using my favorite felted wool sweater scraps, and these heart lollipops are the cutest!

It’s a quick little project that you can whip up in no time at all. Trust me, you won’t be able to make just one.

Of course, you can make these hearts with regular felt, but a felted wool sweater just adds so much character and texture. (I hope you’ve been saving all your felted wool sweater scraps)! They really do come in handy for a lot of things.

What do you do with heart lollipops?

You can’t eat them, but you can:

Stick them in a potted plant to decorate your home
Embellish a valentine gift wrapping
Place one in a plant that you are giving as a gift
Put a bundle of them in a small vase and give as a gift.
Leave the stick off, and add a loop to hang the heart on a doorknob or wall.

What you’ll need:

The pattern downloaded, printed and cut out. GET THE PATTERN HERE.

fabric scissors
embroidery needle and embroidery floss ( about a yard and a half for one heart)
felt or felted wool sweater (one that won’t fray)
Bamboo skewers, or sucker sticks
glue gun and glue sticks
fiber fill stuffing

Instructions:

Watch the VIDEO TUTORIAL at the end of the post

Cut out 2 hearts.

Thread the needle with 3 strands of embroidery floss. (Embroidery floss usually comes in a skein of 6 strands) I like to split it into half, making it not so bulky.

Knot the end of the thread and take a stitch right at the point, with the knot sandwiched in middle so it doesn’t’ show.

Sew around the heart using a BLANKET STITCH. If you are not familiar with this stitch, you can watch a tutorial here.

Stop about an inch from where you started.

Add a little stuffing to puff it up a bit, but not too much!

Add a little dollop of hot glue to one end of the stick and poke it inside the heart, and inside of the stuffing.

Continue sewing until you come to the bottom point of the heart. Wrap the needle around the stick and take another small stitch to knot the end.

Insert the needle back into the fabric right on top of a previous stitch and pull the needle out in the middle of the heart.

Clip the thread.

You can place it in a small cellophane bag and tie a bow around it, or leave unwrapped.

Another way to make the heart is to leave the stick out and add a loop for hanging.

If you choose to sew them up this way, start sewing at the top notch of the heart instead of the bottom of the heart.

Make a loop with a piece of jute or ribbon and make a knot at the end. Insert that into the heart before you stitch the opening up.

Be sure to check these posts for some other Valentine’s ideas.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

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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.

crafts gift ideas Sewing tutorial sweater hearts upcycled sweater hearts upcycled sweater projects upcycled sweaters Valentine Ideas

Pixie & Pilot Caps Pattern with New Video Tutorial

Just in time for the cooler weather coming on, these cozy pixie & pilot caps are the perfect thing to keep your little ones ears nice and toasty!

Although this is not a new pattern release, I do have a NEW video tutorial to go along with it. I’m super excited to share it with you.

These whimsical, but most importantly functional pixie and pilot caps were designed to fit snug around the face and tie comfortably under the chin.

A cap for all seasons

Spring & Summer: For those days when the little ones just need a light covering, a cap made with cotton knit is the perfect thing.

Fall & Winter: An upcycled sweater or a cozy piece of fleece, are the perfect thing to make a pixie or pilot cap out of.

If you would like the look of a hand knit hat for your child but you don’t knit, but you DO sew, this pixie & pilot cap pattern works great. Use the bottom cuff of a sweater and cut it out with the method I show in my pattern tutorial and it will hug around your child’s face just like you had knit it by hand.

These make really fun baby gifts!

Where do you get the pilot & pixie cap pattern?

You can get it here on my website or in my Etsy shop.

The pattern includes two different styles of caps: A functional pilot cap and a fun whimsy pixie cap.

Five different sizes from Newborn to a Child Size Small.

The cap uses very little fabric or sweater material. This one was made from an upcycled cotton sweater and the lining from an upcycled fleece jacket.

Lining the cap will make the cap REVERSIBLE and it’s so easy to do!

This is another opportunity to use some of your sweaters from your stash, if you have one.

If you are like me, once you start making things from upcycled sweaters, collecting second hand sweaters becomes an addiction.

Just think of all the combinations of colors and textures you can use to make some fabulous caps.

Pilot & Pixie Caps Soft and Cozy Binding

Using the method I showed in a previous post to bind the hat with fleece makes it cozy around the face and ties comfortably under the chin.

HERE ARE SOME OTHER FUN HATS TO MAKE.

Upcycled Sweater Hat

Spiral Beanie

Fleece Animal Beanie

Christmas is just around the corner.

So dig into your sweater stash, or purchase a small amount of fleece and get sewing!

*******Holiday sales are coming up and fleece can usually be found at an excellent price this time of year.

So grab your pattern and get sewing.

Here is the video tutorial that will walk you through the process, step by step!

Have fun sewing!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

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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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It’s Poncho Time: Upcycled Sweater Project

It’s poncho time. Keep your little kids toasty warm this winter season with a poncho.

Whether your littles are playing, at school, or just hanging out at home, a poncho is a great lightweight covering that isn’t too bulky or constricting.

These ponchos are super easy to make from upcycled sweaters and all kinds of fleece.

Dress it up with a soft fleece flower, decorative trims, or other fun embellishments.

I put a few of my felted wool sweater balls on this one.

Mix and match colors to create a one-of-a-kind, whimsical, fun, playful poncho they will love wearing.

The neck binding is easy to sew and made with cozy fleece that fits comfortably and easily over the head.

Just think of all the different color combinations and fun contrasting neck bindings you can create.

The patterns are available here on my site or in my Etsy shop. Sizes 6 months to girls’ size 14 are available.

For those of you who would like to wear something a little whimsical and fun yourself, you can get the women’s poncho pattern HERE ON MY SITE SHOP or HERE in my Etsy shop.

These make fun Christmas gifts for your littles! This really is a quick, easy project.

Get out your sweater stash and make ponchos.

For sweater upcycling tips and know-how, check out my FREE online course HERE.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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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poncho Sewing upcycled clothing upcycled sweater projects upcycling

Sweater Mittens – Easy Sewing Project for Your Favorite Valentine!

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.

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 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).
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.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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.

Holidays mittens Patterns recycled sweater projects recycled sweaters recycling Sewing upcycled sweater projects valentine wool

diy Travel Tissue Pouch: From an Upcycled Sweater

I think all women carry tissue in their purse, right? Why not carry your tissue in style? This travel tissue pouch is so easy and quick to make. What’s even better is that they are so cute made up using an upcycled sweater! I could make different color combinations all day. So fun!

The contrasting fabric lining, which also becomes the trim, looks real unique next to the texture of a felted sweater. You CAN make this with regular fabric if you choose, however, if you have felted sweater pieces kicking around, USE THEM!

This is like a 30 minute project. Oh what fun gifts these would make. (Valentine’s Day is coming right up)!

what you need

PDF pattern (downloaded and printed)
Sewing Machine/Serger Optional
Pins
Scissors
Iron
Lightweight felted sweater (6 1/2″ x 6″) or regular fabric can be used
Cotton/Cotton blend fabric for lining or trim (8 1/2″ x 6″)
Tissue Packet

tissue pouch instructions

Using pattern piece “A” cut out one using felted sweater.
Cut out one, pattern piece “B” using a contrasting fabric.

3. Place pieces right sides together. Pin short ends in place.

4. Pin the other side (There will be some sagging, don’t worry about it). This is what will create the trim.

5. Sew the seams, 1/4 ” seam allowance (Back stitch at the beginning and end of seam)

6. Turn inside out. Flip the seams towards the outside, even the trim allowance and press in place.

7. Fold in half lengthwise and mark the center point with a pin.

8. With the sweater side facing up, fold one side toward the center. (Line up edge with center point).

9. Fold the other side over the top, lining up binding in the center.

10. Allow the BINDING EDGES to extend out past the edge. (This will keep the flaps tight and not floppy). Pin in place.

11. Using a 1/4″ seam, sew the side edges. Do this with both sides.

12. Clip corners, making sure to NOT cut into the seam!

13. Trim edges.

14. Turn inside out and poke out corners using blunt end of scissors or eraser end of a pencil.

Tips for filling your tissue pouch

You can get these cute little tissue packets at most grocery stores or on Amazon.

To make it easier to get the tissue out of your pouch……….

Remove the “lift” tab on the tissue package.
Take a strip of Scotch tape and place it down the middle (taping the flap closed).
Using a pair of scissors, cut down the center of the tape to create a new straight opening.
Insert the tissue packet into the pouch.

BAM! You’re finished. Now wasn’t that easy and fun.

Have fun sewing!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

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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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DIY Top Knot Headband | Easy Sewing Tutorial

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accessories Sewing sewing pattern upcycled sweater projects

Upcycled Sweater Hearts

Download your sweater hearts FREE pattern here!

I love Valentine’s Day!

Here is another idea for you to use up some of your old sweaters, and better yet, the scraps from your other upcycled projects.

These sweater hearts are way easy to make, you’ll have a bunch made up in no time.

The pattern comes with directions and a pattern for both the regular heart and patchwork heart.

Cut out fabric pieces using sweaters of your choice.

With Right Sides Together (RST) sew piece 1 to piece 2. Open that up and place pattern piece 3 (RST) and sew together.

If you want to hang your sweater hearts, baste a ribbon, jute, or thick string on the right side of the heart back piece.

Gather the string or ribbon up and pin it in the center of the heart, so it won’t get caught in the seam.

Place the pieced heart top to the bottom piece (RST) and pin in place. Sew all the way around leaving about a 2″ opening to stuff the heart.

Turn inside out and stuff firmly.

With a needle and thread, slip stitch opening closed.

Ta Dah!

Sew a bunch up for all your Valentine’s, or just fill a basket full of hearts for a fun holiday decoration!

Here are some other fun DIY Valentine gift ideas.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

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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.

Paper Heart Garlands: Made From Recycled Magazines

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Heart Lollipops: Made with Upcycled Sweaters & Felt

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Free Patterns Holidays Patterns recycled sweater projects recycling Sewing sweater hearts upcycled sweater hearts upcycled sweater projects valentine Valentine gifts

Free Fabric Ball Pattern – Make it with an upcycled sweater

As you know, I love making something new with an old sweater. It’s been a while since I have posted a sewing tutorial, so today I am going to share with you how to make a simple fabric ball. This little ball is so fun to make using a variety of upcycled sweaters. It can also be made using woven, knit, and wool fabrics.

This fabric ball makes the best baby gift! They are quick to sew up and add a quaint, unique addition to any gift.

Babies are not the only ones to fall in love with these soft squishy toys. My border collie, Ben, loves these balls. Actually, he likes anything made with a wool sweater.

I have made several fabric balls for friends with cats. I add a little dried catnip, and they go crazy!!!!!

Lets get on with the fabric ball instructions.

Here is what you will need

Sewing machine, or you can sew the ball by hand with a needle and thread.
Felted Wool sweaters, knit fabric, or any woven fabric.
Pins
Scissors
Needle and thread
Jingle bells (optional)
Stuffing
Free Downloadable Pattern

For more information on how to work with felted wool sweaters, you can check out the posts here.

1. Decide which size fabric ball you want and cut out paper pattern

There are two sizes available.

2. Cut out 8 wedges

Feel free to mix colors and patterns. A whimsy, fun-colored ball, is a fun ball.

Decide what order and what colors you want where. Pin them together in two’s with right sides together.

3. Sew along the right side of each pair

Back stitch at the beginning and end of the seam. You will now have four pieces.

4. Place two of the pairs right sides together and match up points

Pin in place.

Sew just one side from point to point. Cut threads and open up. You should have 4 pieces sewn together. Now do this with the remaining pieces.

Now you will have two separate pieces.

5. Sew the two sections together

With right sides together, place the two pieces together matching top and bottom points. Pin in place.

6. Starting in the middle of one side, sew all the way around

Leave about a 2 ½ inch opening to stuff the ball.

*****It is a little bulky at the top so go slow and make sure the points are lined up. Don’t worry, it will smooth out nicely when stuffed. After sewing, clip the bulk at the top and bottom of the ball.

7. Turn inside out and stuff the fabric ball firmly

Add jingle bells now if you want the ball to make a sound. I like to add 4-5 bells per ball. Make sure they are secured in the middle of the stuffing and not on the outside edges.

8. Sew opening closed

Double thread a needle and knot the end. Slip stitch opening closed. Knot and poke the needle out anywhere in the ball and cut the thread.

Here is a tutorial video that shows how to do a slip stitch.

Ta dah! Now wasn’t that fun!

You can get the full pattern set that includes an octagons ball and a cube pattern.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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 Sweater Birds

I love birds, especially at this time of year. They are starting to appear in my yard, and I can hear them chirping when I open my windows to air out the stale air in the house.

It has been a long winter here in Utah, and the gray days are about to put me in the loony bin.

Seeing them flit around on the blossoming trees makes me so happy that SPRING is finally here.

HOORAY! It has been a while since I posted about these fun little upcycled sweater birds, so I thought I would share them again.

Upcycled Sweater Birds

If you haven’t noticed, I enjoy making things from recycled and felted wool sweaters.

I thought it would be fun to see if I could use up some scraps and make a robin. After all, I had the perfect orange sweater for the belly.

It was so much fun making the robin that I drew up a few other birds.

After a few prototypes and some funny-looking birds, this is what I finally came up with.

I just love my feathery (well, felty) friends.

Bluebird

Do you have any blue sweaters kicking around that you aren’t wearing? These birds are quite easy to make.

Cardinal

Sparrow

What To Do With These Sweater Birds?

You can

Stick a piece of paddle wire to their bellies, then attach them to a basket, plant, or wreath.
They make an excellent PIN CUSHION,
and kids love to play with them.
I don’t have any cats, but I am sure they would go crazy, especially if you added a little catnip while stuffing them.

You can make them with fleece or even just cotton woven fabric.

Happy Sewing!

The pattern is available in my shop and on ETSY.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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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baby toys bird sewing pattern Birds blue jay cardinal cat toys Patterns pin cushion recycling robin Sewing sparrow Sweater Birds upcycled sweater projects

5 DIY Easter Projects

I know there are only a few weeks until Easter, but perhaps you will have some time this week to set aside and make a little something fun for the holiday. Here are 5 DIY Easter projects to consider.

source: Mommypotomus.com

Natural Easter Egg Dye

Don’t you just love the rich, vibrant colors of these eggs? The most exciting part is that they are dyed with natural stuff, items you most likely have in your kitchen.

Beets, onions, turmeric, hibiscus, and purple cabbage with a little vinegar.

It will take a little time to make each color, 15 minutes to an hour, but worth the time if you want to go “natural”.

I have not yet tried this, but I plan to invite my kids over and assign each of them a color to make and bring to our “Colored Easter Egg” get-together. I will let you know how it goes.

Upcycled Sweater Bunny

This little guy is so fun to make using upcycled sweaters or t-shirts.

GET THE PATTERN HERE

I remember making these eggs in school. A fun little project using a little cornstarch, string, and a balloon as the mold.

GET THE INSTRUCTIONS HERE

Paint Chip Garland

I love recycling things, and for some reason, I am drawn to paint sample chips. Who knew you could make something so fun with paint chips?

Get the full scoop HERE.

Soft Sculpture Carrots

Last but not least, my favorite holiday decoration… soft-sculpted carrots. I know I have posted on these before, but just a little reminder of a fun, quick, and charming craft to whip up.

These little guys are fun to

Give as gifts
Glue a magnet on the back of one and place it on your fridge for some bright, cheery color
Attach a string and a name tag for place settings at your Easter dinner

Here is the link for the FREE pattern and tutorial.

Well, I hope these Easter projects get you into the spring and Easter mood. Have a good one!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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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DIY Fabric Carrots Sewing Tutorial

March 12, 2020 / Craft Video, Holidays and Seasonal Sewing, Home Decor Sewing, SEWING, Sewing Felt, Sewing Videos, Upcycled Sweater Sewing Projects, Upcycling, VIDEO AND AUDIO LIBRARY / No Comments

Easter Easter Gifts home decor upcycled sweater projects

Upcycled Sweater Slippers: Sewing Tips & Tricks

For all my upcycling friends, it’s time to get busy in Santa’s workshop. If you are still contemplating what to make for your loved ones for Christmas, why don’t you sew up a pair of upcycled sweater slippers?

Some of you may have already purchased one of my upcycled sweater patterns and have experience sewing with felted wool sweaters.

Others of you may not even know what I am talking about.

Making something out of a recycled sweater is so fun and rewarding.

There are so many things you can create with this yummy fabric once it is felted.

If you want more information about how to felt wool sweaters, you can check out the tutorial HERE.

Today, I want to share some tips and tricks for making upcycled sweater slippers.

I am going to cover:

sole fabric options
cutting out tips
binding tips
hidden seam lining

Sweater slippers SOLE FABRIC OPTIONS

Depending on your needs, there are several options of fabric to use for the bottoms of your slippers. You can use

A regular weight felted wool sweater

Using a regular sweater as the sole, is softer and a bit cozier. However, if you have hardwood floors or tile in your home, they can be a little slippery.

Thick, dense felted wool sweater

Sometimes when you shrink down a sweater it can get really dense and thick. These sweaters are more difficult to use on other craft projects but work well for the soles of slippers. The only drawback here is that they can be a little more challenging to sew with because they are so thick.

Anti-slip fabric

These fabrics can be nice to sew into the soles of sweater slippers for LITTLE PEOPLE’s feet. Most likely you have seen the fabric on the bottoms of children’s one-piece pajamas.

You can find this fabric on the bolt in most fabric stores, or in pre-cut packages. It is also available online.

Another thing to do to prevent slipping and works better for adult slippers is to simply use a rubber shelf liner. It is inexpensive and easy to work with. You can get it at most stores and online here.

*When using either of these two fabrics, you will be cutting out a regular sole piece with a regular weight sweater AND the anti-slip fabric. You will stack those two pieces together and treat them as the sole piece.

Leather or suede

Sewing in a leather or suede sole can be really nice.

It will make the slippers much more durable and can be less slippery.

Working with leather can be a little more challenging, as it does not have any give to it, but not too big of a deal. I love sewing on leather.

The only thing is that you will want to make sure it is a nice soft piece and not too thick.

CUTTING OUT

When cutting out pattern pieces with felted wool sweaters, you want to maximize the fabric. (It’s crafting gold) Place the pattern as close to the edge as possible. Arrange the pattern to use up the best space possible.

Felted sweaters will not fray. So don’t worry about that.

If the sweater has a print, stripe, or design, you must consider that when placing the pattern piece.

Since you are making a pair of slippers, and there is a LEFT and RIGHT side, after cutting out one piece, you will need to flip the pattern over and then place it back on the fabric. (Very Important)

Another tip I give in the pattern tutorial is to USE SAFETY PINS to help mark the RIGHT SIDES of the fabric.

Applying a safety pin to each pattern piece will help keep things straight when putting everything together!

Don’t forget to SAVE YOUR SCRAPS! There are so many fun things to make with all your scraps.
Sweater balls, hearts, dryer balls, etc. can all be made with small pieces of sweater fabric.

BINDING

I came up with this technique that saves time and is much easier when sewing binding on something.

However, this technique can only be used if you are using fleece or a stretchy piece of felted wool.

The reason is, that fleece and felted sweaters DO NOT FRAY! I Love applying fleece binding.

You can also access my FREE online binding course HERE.

HIDDEN SEAM LINING

This is a cool way to apply the lining to a pair of sweater slippers without all the bulk and a seam showing.

Using this technique can be a bit difficult to understand, so I thought I would clarify the process and show you a little clip from my online class on how to do it.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

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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 Sweater Stars – Free Pattern and Tutorial

Can you believe Christmas is just around the corner? It’s time to get out your sweater stash and make some fun things for the holidays. These upcycled sweater stars are so simple to make and can be embellished in so many ways.

Hang them from a door knob, embellish a gift package, put them on your Christmas tree, or just simply set a few on a shelf.

Depending on what sweater or other material you use, each one will sew up a little differently. That is what makes them so fun to make. Mix and match colors, textures, buttons and balls to your hearts content.

I was so excited to find this yellow sweater at the thrift store one day. A yellow wool sweater is always a good find.

They are rare and hard to find. It was the perfect sweater for a warm, holiday star!

If you would like some tips on how to felt wool sweaters and how to get them ready for craft projects, I have a FREE online video class. You can read more about it HERE.

You can make them with:

felted wool sweaters (my favorite)
mixed fiber sweaters
knits
fleece
felt
woven fabrics

Other Items that you will need:

Downloadable printable pattern (GET IT HERE)
Sewing machine (although it can be sewn by hand)
Scissors
Pins
Needle & Thread
Fiber fill stuffing
Embellishments (optional) buttons, jingle bells, sweater balls, etc.
Loop material for hanging (twine, ribbon, embroidery floss, etc.)

Instructions:

1- Download, print and cut out pattern.

There are two sizes.

2- Cut two stars out of the fabric of your choice.

(Felted wool sweaters, mixed fiber sweaters, fleece, knit, and woven fabrics will work as well)

3- Place star pieces Right Sides Together (RST) and pin in place.

4- Starting at one star point, backstitch and then sew around stopping where indicated to leave space for filling.

5- Trim seam.

6- Clip star tips and inside corners.

7- Turn the inside out

Poke star tips out using the tips of scissors, or a wood turning tool.

This is the polyester fiber fill that I use. As you can see, I buy it in the big bag to have on hand for all my crafting adventures.

8- Stuff the star, poking the fiber filling out into the star tips.

Use a turning tool or the tips of a pair of closed scissors. (only if they have a rounded tip). Be careful not to poke through the fabric!

9- Double thread a needle and knot the end.

10- Sew the opening closed using a slip stitch.

You can watch a demonstration of how to sew the slip stitch HERE.

10- To make indent in the middle (optional) double thread a needle and knot the end.

Making a dimple or indent in the star, makes it easier to place a button or bell on the front of the star.

11- Stick the needle in the back and pull through into the inside.

12- Stitch back and forth through both layers several times, pulling tight to form a dimple.

Here are a few ideas of what you can use to embellish your star.

Jingle bells
Classy buttons
Sweater Balls (watch the tutorial HERE)

13- Sew or glue, the button, bell or sweater ball to the star.

14- To make a loop to hang the star:

Here are some options of what to use to hang your star.

Jute (I use this stuff for everything)
Colored twine
Ribbon
Embroidery floss
Crafting trim

Cut a strip of yarn, embroidery floss, ribbon, jute, etc. about 10 inches long. Fold in half and make a knot on the end.

15- Using a needle and thread, whip stitch the knotted area onto the end of a star tip.

Ta-dah!

I bet you can’t wait to whip up a bunch more!

These sweater stars would be a fun Thanksgiving craft. Someone in my family usually comes up with a simple craft for all of us to make while we sit and chat.

I wonder what we’ll make this year? I will have to keep you posted.

Send me a note if you have any questions while sewing up your stars.

You can find other fun things to make with upcycled wool sweaters in my Etsy shop and my Craftsy shop.

This is a great time to get started on your Christmas gift making. Here are a few other ideas.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

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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 Sweater Hearts – Free Pattern Tutorials

Oh, the things you can do with a brightly colored felted wool sweater heart. I have written several posts over the years about making upcycled sweater hearts. I wanted to update a few things and perhaps bring them all together for you.

Felted wool sweater fabric is like crafting gold, especially for making Valentine’s. Hopefully, you save your scraps when you are making things out of sweaters. Here are a few ideas.

Patchwork sweater hearts

Put several different colors of sweaters together in one heart, using this patchwork heart pattern. Here in this post, you can get the download and instructions. Wrap one of these cute hearts up in a cellophane bag and give it to a friend or loved one any time of the year.

Sweater Heart Handwarmers

Make a cozy set of hand warmers from upcycled sweaters. Get the free pattern and post HERE.

Sweater Mittens – Easy Sewing Project for Your Favorite Valentine!

Make a cozy pair of upcycled sweater mittens.

How to easily cut out hearts with felted wool sweaters

Even the smallest pieces can be used to cut out a heart for a card like shown in this video tutorial.

There you have it. A few fun things to make out of felted wool sweaters.

Happy Valentine’s Day My Friends!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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 Sweater Christmas Stocking Tutorial

My felted wool scrap box is getting a little out of control so I thought I would make up some new Christmas stocking and use up some of the scraps. They turned out pretty cute. I am going to walk you through this fun Upcycled Sweater Christmas stocking tutorial and let you download my Christmas stockings pattern for free!

If you don’t want to use felted wool sweaters, you can make the stockings out of regular woven fabrics.

Let’s get started

To make a striped Christmas stocking, you will need to cut out some strips of sweaters. You will be sewing the strips together and then cutting out the stocking, just like you would with a solid piece of fabric. I recommend cutting strips that are 2 1/2 inches- 5 inches in depth and 8 inches wide for the upper stocking and 11 inches for the foot part of the stocking. There are no rules here. The color schemes and color patterns are endless.

You can also make solid color Christmas stockings from this pattern. Check out some ideas here.

Get the Christmas stocking PATTERN HERE

1) Download, print and cut out the pattern.

(Due to the size of the pattern, you will need to assemble the pattern first) Easy peasy!

2) Cut out strips

Cut out various sizes of strips, or you can cut them all the same size. Just depends on the look you want. Arrange the strips in the order you want them. *HINT (Take a picture with your phone, so you can remember) Then stack them in order.

3) Sew strips together

You can use a single needle sewing machine or a serger. (If the fabric you are using will fray, you will need to use a serger or finish the edges using a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine.

4) Cutting Out front piece

Open up the strips you just sewed together, and press all the seams so they are all going in the same direction. (Decide if you want the seams exposed on the outside or not, and cut out accordingly). Lay the pattern on top to see if you have enough strips and that they are wide enough.

Pull the fabric taught and pin in place. Cut out.

5) Back piece and lining

Choose a fabric to use as the back piece. I used a pair of recycled denim jeans. You can use corduroy, sweater fabric or any woven fabric. You only need one backing piece.

Decide which fabric to use for the lining.

Line the pattern up with the grain of the fabric and cut out two

6) Sewing outer stocking

Place the outer lining strips on top of the back piece (Right Sides Together). Pin in place.

Sew all the way around, leaving the top open.

Turn the right side out.

*Make sure the strip seams are all facing the same way as you sew. (You may have to stop sewing and push the seam down as you sew over it).

7) Inner lining

Place the lining pieces (RST). Pin in place and sew around, just like you did with the outer pieces.

Do not turn inside out.

8) Cutting out & sewing stocking cuff

You can make the stocking cuff out of an existing sweater cuff, or you can use woven fabric as well.

Fold the cuff in half and place pattern on fold where indicated and cut out. (I wanted this cuff to be a little shorter, so that is why is looks a little funny in the photo above).

9) The cuff

With (RST) sew the cuff seam. Turn the right side out and fold in half so the seam is in the center. Mark the outer folds with pins.

10) Stocking loop

Cut out loop on the fold where indicated on pattern. Only cut out one.

Sew the seam, and turn inside out. * HINT use a safety pin as shown to help turn inside out.

Fold the loop seam to center and press in place.

Now fold the loop in half with the seam on the inside.

11) Sewing on the cuff & loop

Take your hand and stick it in the stocking lining. Stuff the lining into the outer stocking.

Line up seams and upper edges of the outer stocking and lining.

Place the loop on the stocking lining, just behind the side seam toward the back. Pin in place.

With the WRONG side of the cuff facing out, place it inside the stocking, lining up pins with the side seams. Pin in place.

Sew all the way around. Take your time to line up the edges of all three layers as you sew. Back stitch.

12) Finishing

Flip the cuff to the outside. Ta-dah!

Stick you hand inside the stocking to push the edges out. Press upper cuff seam and all around the stocking edges.

There you have it!

If you have any questions while sewing, you’re welcome to send me note.

Enjoy!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

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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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DIY: Upcycled Sweater Spiral Beanie

The contoured curvy panels give your head a comfy, head hugging fit, that is so comfortable to wear.

Pattern includes six different sizes. (6-12 month, Toddler, Child 3-10, Youth, Adult Large, Adult X Large).

Mix it up by using different sweaters and colors or use all the same color. The variations are endless and it is even REVERSIBLE!

You can expose the seams on the outside for a more distinct pattern design or flip the seams to the inside for a smooth flat look.

Fleece works great too.

Material and Items Needed:

• Sewing machine
• Fleece or upcycled sweaters
• Scissors
• Pins
• Fleece strip for binding

This really is a fun and easy sewing project.

The pattern is available right here in my shop, on Craftsy or Etsy.

With the holidays are coming up, now is a great time to get your sewing machine out and whip up a few of these for Christmas gifts.

I do offer pattern bundle deals in my Etsy shop. Any 5, Any 4, Any 3, Any 2.

Find some wool sweaters and fleece and give this sewing project a WHIRL!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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 Sweater Pumpkins – New Video Tutorial

SEE THE NEW UPDATED TUTORIAL HERE.

It’s pumpkin time! I love everything about fall, the bright cheery colors, the crisp air, pumpkins and wearing sweaters. But as most of you know already, wearing sweaters is not what gets me excited, it’s MAKING THINGS WITH SWEATERS that makes me smile.

In my newest Skillshare class I show you how to make these fun, whimsy upcycled sweater pumpkins. These pumpkins can be made with felted wool sweaters, cotton sweaters, orange knit, and even fleece. They have so much character, each one turns out a little different.

This upcycled sweater pumpkin class is only 17 minutes long and will get you on your way to making a fun Halloween and Thanksgiving decoration. You can leave them out until it’s time for your Christmas decorations.

The pattern comes FREE with class enrollment. If you are not a member of Skillshare yet, here is a link where you can get 3 months of the premium membership for only .99 cents. With the holidays coming along, this is a great opportunity to take unlimited classes and learn how to make some fun Christmas gifts.

Skillshare has classes and video tutorials on almost anything you would want to learn how to do.

Crafts,
photography
painting
cooking
sewing
photoshop
graphic design
crochet and so much more.

If you find after a few months, you don’t use it, you can cancel your membership at any time. What a no-brainer!

If you are not interested in enrolling in the class and just want to purchase the pattern, you can download the pattern here.

This is all you need to make a sweater pumpkin:

Sewing machine or you can sew by hand with a needle and thread.
Felted Wool sweaters or mixed fiber sweaters work as well, knit or fleece
Pins
Scissors
Stuffing
Two shades of green felt
2-inch length of a thin tree branch
Hot glue gun/glue
Green 18 gauge cloth stem wire or green craft pipe cleaner

Gather your sweaters in all shades of orange, yellow, tan and brown and let’s make some pumpkins!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

Connect:

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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How To Measure Hands For Mittens

This was one of the first patterns I designed using upcycled wool sweaters. I tweaked and adjusted this pattern until these mittens fit perfectly. Unlike some of the other mitten patterns I tried to make that were way too bulky for my liking. This pattern has been a great little pattern, simple, to the point and easy to make. However, after many years, I felt the pattern instructions and the pattern itself needed to be cleaned up a bit, so I have made a few updates. Not only did I update the look of the pattern I added a sizing chart with instructions on how to measure hands for mittens.

I get a lot of inquiries regarding what size would fit a certain age and how to know what size to make. Age has no relevance because hand measurements vary so much with age. Hopefully this sizing chart will be helpful in choosing the size you need and make you feel more confident that the mittens you sew up will actually fit.

How to measure your hands

Measure the width and the length of your hands using a measuring tape. If you don’t have a measuring tape, you can wrap a string around your hand and then measure the string using a ruler.

Width Measurement:

Wrap a tailor’s measuring tape around your dominant hand just below the knuckles, excluding your thumb, and make a fist. This measurement is your “hand width” mitten size.

Length Measurement:

Measure from the bottom edge of palm to the tip of your middle finger to determine your “finger length” size.

*When between sizes, go up a size.

As a general guide:

Toddler sizes range from 3.5 – 5.5 inches in width.

Kids sizes range from 6 – 7.5 inches.

This pattern includes SEVEN different sizes, and can be located here in my Etsy shop or here in my Craftsy shop.

I also have an infant and child pattern for those wee little hands.

If you would like to purchase the pattern, go to either shop for a quick INSTANT DOWNLOAD.

Subscribe to my blog to make sure you get future pattern updates and other upcoming tips and tricks.

Happy Winter Sewing!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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.

How To Easily Customize Your DIY Fabric Labels / Quick and Simple

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hand measurements mittens upcycled sweater mittens upcycled sweater patterns upcycled sweater projects

DIY Christmas Gift – Mistletoe and Mrs. Meyer’s Pine Dish Soap

Have any of you tried Mrs. Meyer’s dish soap? If you haven’t you need to give it a whirl. A few months ago I was in Santa Barbara, California on a business trip with my husband and I popped into a Whole Foods Market (one of my favorite stores). I always check to see if they have any of Mrs. Meyer’s products on sale. They did, and there was a new pine scent, IOWA PINE. I couldn’t resist.

The PEPPERMINT SCENT IS ALSO DIVINE!

They only had one bottle left, so I got it. I could see a cute red ribbon around the lid with a fun Christmas note. So when I got home, I got online and ordered a bunch of Christmas gifts.

They had a great deal going with free shipping. I got some dish soap and hand soaps in this scent. I know I may be a little strange giving “dish soap” to the neighbors, but I like giving something that is useful and simple.

So here you have it, a sprig of mistletoe and a bottle of Mrs. Meyer’s dish soap, AND a cheesy note to go with it. That is the best I could come up with.

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD THE FREE PDF FOR THE CARD HERE.

There is still a little time left to get out your felted green sweater scraps or felt pieces and whip you up a few sprigs of mistletoe to go with your gifts.

Where do you get the pattern and tutorial?

The mistletoe tutorial can be found here and the pine-scented soap is available here.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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 Sweater Mistletoe Tutorial

I love having greenery in my house in the winter and a cute little sprig of mistletoe with its contrasting white berries and a red ribbon hung above the door is a breath of fresh air to me, it’s a great way to get a few more of those heartfelt kissaroos.

Who couldn’t use a little more loven in your home?

I am going to guide you through a quick and fun upcycled sweater mistletoe tutorial.

GET THE FREE PATTERN BY CLICKING THE LINK ABOVE.

So how did this plant’s association with Christmas and kissing come to be? It is an interesting story, and I will let you read about it here if you are interested.

As you know, I have a thing for upcycled felted wool sweaters, and my favorite color of sweaters is GREEN. Whenever I go to the second-hand store and find a sweater that is a good shade of green, I buy it and consider my day a success.

Well, I have found another fun project to use my sweaters.

This is all you will need:

Green-felted wool sweaters or regular green felt can work too.
Floral wire (green)
Green floral tape
Scissors
Fake white floral berries or you could use white felted wool balls or anything white that would look like a berry.
Red ribbon
Sewing machine
PDF pattern (download here)

Get out your sweater scraps and find all the green pieces.

Cut out 5-7 leaves using different shades of green sweaters.

Cut out different lengths of leaves.

To apply floral wire to the leaf: set the wire in the middle of the leaf and straight down the center.

Using green thread, set you machine setting to a small zigzag stitch, and short length stitch.

Sew from the tip of the wire down to the end of the leaf.

This is what it will look like.

Make about 5-7 leaves.

Using the floral tape, begin to wrap at the bottom of the leaf, catching a little of the fabric. Continue to wrap about 1/2 inch.

Add another leaf and wrap around both wires.

Add a spring of berries and wrap.

Continue to add leaves and berries spacing the way you want them to be. Then wrap down the stem a little further.

Cut most of the wires, but leave two

Make a little loop with the two wires. This is what you will use to hang your sprig.

Twist the wire and cut off the excess.

Wrap the ends well with the floral tape.

There you have it. Bend and shape the leaves to your liking.

Add a red ribbon and you are set.

Look how cute it looks hung above the doorway.

So, get out your green wool scraps and whip up a few sprigs for your home, or share some kissing and attracting love with your friends and family.

These upcycled sweater mistletoe sprigs do make a great gift and a gift-wrapping embellishment.

Here is a fun neighborhood gift idea that I did one year. I bought a bunch of yummy-smelling Mrs. Meyers dish soap. The pine and the peppermint really do smell wonderful.

I have attached a card made with the PDF below.

You can download the FREE PDF HERE.

Have fun creating!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

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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 Felted Wool Sweater Balls

I hope you have been saving the sweater scraps when you are cutting out your sweater mittens, slippers, or other felted wool projects, because I am going to show you how easy it is to make these adorable upcycled felted wool sweater balls. Who would have thought that you could still do something with a 3 inch piece of sweater. I don’t throw any of these precious scraps away, even the littlest pieces get saved for laundry dryer balls.

You are probably wondering what you do with a bunch of balls made with sweaters.

Instead of yarn pom poms on my elf slippers, I find a cute sweater color and make a sweater ball.

Look how cute they look just sitting in a bowl. Add a little color and texture to any room.

I have used them for a button on my tablet purse…….

…and on my “hip purse”.

Look how cute they look sewn to this little girl poncho.

Video Tutorial

Here is a quick tutorial on how easy it is to make this little gems.

I know you can make similar balls that are more uniform using special wool fibers for “felting”, but I find these have a little more character, because of the different sweater textures and stitches.

I am hoping to have enough soon to make a fun garland.

Get your tote of scraps, a pair of scissors, a good movie and cut away.

I like to keep a plastic zip bag full of wool circles, thread and a pair of scissors. It makes a great on-the-go project. (For those of you who like to take advantage of down time while traveling, chilling out, or those fun stays in waiting rooms).

I would love to see if any of you have any other great ideas of how to use these cute little fellas. Send me your ideas or better yet, send me a snap of your creations.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

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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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Easy To Make Upcycled Skirts

It’s boot and skirt weather! The air is getting cool and crisp and what a great time to throw on your tights and skirts. In the office, running errands or even keeping house, a skirt, some tights and a pair of boots are a great GO TO for any occasion. I love wearing skirts in the winter.

A few years ago I designed a skirt pattern for girls and had intentions of making a women’s pattern but never got around to it until now. These two skirt patterns are so easy to make up, and better yet, you can recycle some of your clothes to do it.

Whether you want the length of the skirt to be just above the knee or mid thigh, the pattern is adaptable. The comfortable fold down yoga waistband makes it easy to get on and off and is easy to sew.

Here are a few tips when choosing fabric or recycled clothing for your skirts.

Large sweaters either cotton/synthetic blends or wool blends are great for the eight panel skirt.
Check the clearance sections for long knit skirts or dresses. They have a lot of yardage and can be used either for another skirt or the waistbands of other skirts. (Check the fabric content. If they have a high percentage of spandex, and it is a good color and quality, most likely the clearance item will be cheaper than buying fabric. Spandex fabric at the fabric store can be quite expensive and the selection is usually poor).
Don’t forget to check the thrift stores and yard sales for sweaters and skirts to use as fabric yardage.
If using sweaters, be sure to check for any holes before cutting out.
Try to use fabric or sweaters that are similar in weight for the same project.
If using wool sweaters, either felt them before sewing, or make sure you hand wash the skirt in cold water. (Shrinking the sweater before may make it too dense to use for a skirt).
Use your creativity to come up with some fun color and texture combinations.
Add trim and embellishments if you want to get real creative.

The pattern for these easy to make upcycled skirts include women sizes 2-14 and is available in my Etsy shop or Craftsy shop.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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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Sweater Pumpkins – A Great Fall Upcycled Sweater Project

Fall is one of my most favorite seasons and what a great time of the year to get out your sweaters and make something fun. Some ORANGE sweaters perhaps? I love the color orange, felted wool sweaters and shades of green. Put it together with a twig from the yard and BAM you have the ultimate home decoration for fall, upcycled sweater pumpkins.

I am not a big fan of Halloween decor, but I do like to decorate with pumpkins and leaves. You will be able to keep these guys sitting around until Thanksgiving. In fact, wouldn’t they be nice to display at the Thanksgiving table?

Look how cute they are made up using a yellow and even a brown sweater. A little whimsy and fun.

Sewing the leaves were so much fun! I tried a new technique with layering and sewing different shades of felt. I think I have found a new medium to work with. Awe, so many ideas and so much I want to do.

The pattern to make these sweater pumpkins has been listed in my Etsy shop .

Check out this post, where I give you the link to the sweater pumpkins video tutorial.

Have fun sewing!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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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large jar top

side jar label

Some jars work better to have a label on the side.

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How to Organize and Store Felted Wool Sweaters

I am on a quest to organize, DE-junk, and clear the clutter from my home and life.

The first thing I did was clean out my closet. I have worked from area to area in my home, letting things go and organizing.

I will post about this later, as it is quite amazing some of the things I have learned.

As you all know, I love felted wool sweaters and have acquired just a FEW over the years. (Ha, Ha)

I must say my SWEATER STASH was getting out of control.

Whenever I started a wool project, I hauled out my bins of sweaters (six and one mega-size bin), lined them up in the hallway, and dug through them all, trying to find just the right piece and color. WHAT A MESS!

Not having my supplies in order caused PROCRASTINATION.

The thoughts of the mess and the bother of hauling all those bins out kept me from moving forward and getting things done.

Do any of you find yourself feeling like this? It was time to MOVE ON.

I bit the bullet, turned on an audiobook, got a chair and a pair of scissors, and got to work.

This is what some of my bins looked like. Most of them were worse off. So crammed I could hardly get the lids on them. Who knew what was in there???

Here are a few tips on organizing and storing felted wool sweaters.

I am going to show you a technique that I have found that works really well for storing sweaters so they don’t take up too much room.

1. WASH AND FELT THE SWEATER. (Instructions are here on how to feel and shrink sweaters.)

2. DISASSEMBLY of the SWEATER.

Right after you acquire a sweater and have washed it, disassemble it.

Cutting the sweater up like this will make it easier to cut out items for your project and will save so much room when storing.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how I disassemble my sweaters.

Cut up the side seam to the arm pit.

Cut the sleeve off.

Cut through the shoulder seam.

This sweater has a turtleneck, so cut off the neck piece if it has one. This could come in handy for many good things.

Cut the other shoulder seam and the other sleeve off. DO NOT CUT THE
OTHER SIDE SEAM.

This will allow you to have more intact yardage if
necessary for larger pieces.

If the sweater has a good cuff. Cut the lower 4-5 inches of the sleeve
off. These cuffs work well for the cuffs of mittens and slippers!

Cut down the sleeve seam.

Open the sleeve piece up and fold.

If the sweater has a good cuff along the bottom of the sweater. Cut the lower 4-5 inches off in a long strip.

Once again, this cuff fabric is terrific.

If the sweaters have any cool accessories, BUTTONS, ZIPPERS, POCKETS, etc., save them.

Here are a few zippers that I have saved from sweaters.

I saved these zippers because of the cool zipper pulls they have.

This can really add charm to a project. Yes, I know it will take some time to unpick the sweater from the zipper, but it’s something you could do while watching TV or riding in the car (as a passenger, of course).

3. Fold and store.

Doesn’t this look so much nicer than a wad of wool?

This is a flatter bin about 6 inches tall that I store all my cut-out cuffs in.

It is easy to find and see what colors I have available.

If you are starting to explore the world of FELTED WOOL SWEATERS and don’t have a big surplus YET, just find a nice bin with a lid to keep your sweaters in.

BUT, if you have been into this for a bit, you most likely have several sweaters of many colors kicking around.

PLASTIC BINS

To make your life easier when it comes to felted wool sweater projects, get yourself several bins, preferably the same size, for easy stacking.

I get mine at Costco. I used to have a big old mongo bin that I would throw some of the sweaters in, but it was way too big and hard to organize.

So, that bin is now being used for sleeping bags.

I reduced my bins from 6 regular-size bins plus the Mongo bin to 6 regular-size bins. Yea! It feels so nice.

SORT IN COLORS

Depending on how many sweaters you have, sit and figure out what colors need to go where.

I use a whole bin for greens, and one bin for blacks and grays.

Label the bins so you can easily see where things are.

I just got a Silhouette Cameo machine a while back and made some fun vinyl labels.

You can make a paper label and tape it to the box, or even just stick some masking tape on and write what colors are inside.

Establish a box for scraps. After you have cut things out, you will have pieces that are too small to fold.

PLEASE DON’T THROW THEM AWAY. So many projects require only a small piece of wool, such as balls, hearts, and so on.

I also keep a smaller box, or you can even use a bag, for the tiny scraps of felted wool.

I save these for laundry dryer balls. This blog post has more information about making these gems.

So, there you have it. I hope this LONG post was helpful to you in some way.

If you have a great idea or questions, please feel free to comment.

Have fun sorting, sewing, and of course, keep SMILING!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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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Caring for your upcycled wool sweater projects

So you have made some fun things with felted wool sweaters. SLIPPERS, MITTENS, HATS, and STUFFED ANIMALS.

What are you supposed to do when they get dirty?
NO PROBLEM!

I wanted to do a quick post about caring for your upcycled wool sweater projects to put your mind at ease and let you know how well these items wash up, and how easy they are to care for.

The multicolored mittens in the photo are about 5 years old, the slippers are probably 3 years old, and the slipper boots are about the same.

They have been washed many times and are holding up just fine.
In fact, I think it makes them have more character the more you wash them.

I love putting my feet in a pair of newly washed slippers. It tightens up the fibers, so it is like getting a little hug on your feet.

The already felted (washed in hot water) sweater material will not shrink when washed again.

If the sweater was not properly shrunk, the item you made may shrink. For tips on felting sweaters, go to the post here.

I have not experienced any major shrinking with the items I have washed. If they do shrink a bit, they will stretch out just fine.

How to wash wool slippers.

I throw my wool items in the washing machine with a load of permanent press items, so the water is not hot, but it can handle warm water.

If you are worried, just put the water at a cooler temperature. I even throw them in the dryer.

Then again, if you are worried, just let them air dry. The sweater fabric was most likely pre-shrunk (hopefully).

If you have never made anything with a felted wool sweater, give it a whirl. Who knew all the fun things you can make with an old sweater?

Here are a few ideas of things you can make. I have a few more felted wool sweater projects and patterns in the making and are soon to be listed.

So get you sweater stash out, or maybe you need to make a trip to the thrift store, and have fun sewing!!!!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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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Upcycle Your Sweaters Into Something Fabulous – Bobbi Jo Hat Pattern

Hopefully, you have had a good summer, and have had some “GOOD FINDS” at yard sales, or second-hand stores finding some sweaters to use on all your upcycled projects.

It’s a great time to sew!

Winter is on its way, and Christmas is just around the corner. The perfect time to get out your sweater stash,( for all you upcycled sweater junkies), or find a sweater that you love, but don’t wear anymore and upcycle it into a fabulous hat, like this Bobbi Jo hat.

This is my latest pattern design, the BOBBI JO hat. A cross between a pillbox hat and a beanie. I love the way it fits on the head and is so comfortable and cozy around the ears.

This hat was made from a cotton blend sweater. I loved the look of the “wrong side” of the fabric so I sewed it up that way, with the wrong side on the outside. Looks almost like I knitted the hat.

This hat was made from fleece scraps. If you haven’t sewn on the fleece, you need to try it. So easy and fun. This time of year, fabric stores usually have their fleece at a great price for Christmas gift making.

Embellish the hat with all kinds of things. This hat has a fleece flower, which is really fun and easy to make. I have a free tutorial here on my blog or you can purchase a pattern with several different kinds of flowers in my shop.

This cute little toddler-size hat was finished with a rolled brim. This is an easy technique that adds a little character and pop of color around the face

There are so many options with this pattern.

Just think of all the cute little or big hats you can make up for Christmas gifts. The pattern includes sizes from INFANT all the way up to an ADULT LARGE.

This is a really easy project to whip up. Great for even a beginner seamstress. A basic sewing machine is all that is needed. If you have a serger, that works great too!

You can find the pattern for INSTANT DOWNLOAD in my shop.

Have fun sewing!!!!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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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Baby Gift Ideas – Upcycled Sweater Toys

Do you have a baby on the way or know someone who does? These little toys made from felted wool sweaters or fleece scraps make a fun complement to any baby gift.

If you have been saving your sweater scraps, this is a great place to upcycle them into a cuddly, cozy baby toy.

Sweater Balls & Blocks

These balls are soft and squishy, just right for little hands to hold. I inserted a couple of jingle bells inside to add a soft jingle when the ball is shaken. The pattern includes a cute block pattern as well. They are quite easy and fun to sew up. They add charm to a baby gift!

Little hands love to hold these bunnies and bears made from upcycled sweaters.

Tuck one in a sack with some baby lotion and soap with his head and ears popping out. What a cute thing to take to a baby shower.

This is a fun project using basic sewing machine and hand sewing skills.

You can get the pattern here in my pattern shop or my Etsy shop.

Have fun sewing!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Share:

Connect:

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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PILOT & PIXIE CAP PATTERN – Another Upcycled Sewing Project

Just in time for the cooler weather coming on, these cozy pilot & pixie caps are the perfect thing to keep your little ones ears nice and toasty!

This is another opportunity to use some of your sweaters from your stash. If you are like me, once you start making things from upcycled sweaters, collecting second hand sweaters becomes an addiction. You just can’t pass up another great color or unique textured sweater.

If you would like the look of a hand knit hat for your child but you don’t knit, but you DO sew, this pilot & pixie pattern works great. Use the bottom cuff of a sweater and cut it out with the method I show in my pattern tutorial and it will hug around your child’s face just like you had knit it by hand.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

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Upcycled Sweater Crossover Slippers

Slip your tootsies into these bad boys! These upcycled sweater crossover slippers will give you Foot Hugging Comfort!
My Crossover Slipper Pattern is finally ready to go!

I have had these crossover slippers sketched and in my head for months. I found myself with a little spare time the last few weeks, so to the drawing table and sewing machine I went. These slippers turned out to be as comfortable as I had hoped for and they are one of my easiest slippers yet to make.

crossover slipper suede soles

I used a lightweight leather piece for the sole of one set. They turned out quite nice. Sewing on leather is quite easy and enjoyable. HMMMMMM what can I make with leather now?

Get out your sweater stash and get busy. By the way, any good finds (WOOL SWEATERS that is), at any garage or tag sales? Remember this is the season and a great way to get your wool sweaters dirt cheap.

These slippers would make great Christmas gifts you know? Just think of all the fun color combinations you could come up with.

You can also make these slippers with thick polar fleece fabric.

Other upcycled sweater references:

crossover slipper tips and tricks

You can find this pattern at my

For some tips on how to felt wool sweaters, check out this post.

Click HERE to see more upcycled sweater projects and information.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR UPCYCLED WOOL SWEATER ACCESSORIES.

TIP: WHEN CUTTING OUT YOUR WOOL SWEATER PROJECTS…….KEEP ALL THE SCRAPS. (Even the littlest pieces).

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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.

DIY Dog Sweater: Simple Upcycled Sewing Project

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A Good Day at the Thrift Store – Wool Sweaters

April 4, 2019 / CRAFTS, Felt Crafts, Upcycled Sweater Craft Projects, Upcycling / 6 Comments

Upcycled Sweater Slippers: Sewing Tips & Tricks

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Caring for your upcycled wool sweater projects

February 8, 2015 / SEWING, Sewing Tips, Upcycled Sweater Sewing Projects / 2 Comments

crossover slippers felting wool sweaters PDF pattern recycled sweaters recycling Sewing Slipper Pattern sweater slippers upcycled sweater projects wool slippers

How to Felt Wool Sweaters

I had a good day at the second-hand store last week!

Look at the amazing wool sweaters I found.

I frequently stop at the thrift stores in town to see if they have any GOOD sweaters.

As you know, I love making things from upcycled sweaters, particularly wool.

Wool because when you felt it, (shrink it down) the fibers get tight and dense and have a texture that I find irresistible!

Felted sweaters are great for all kinds of projects from slippers, and mittens to baby toys and hats.

What Makes A Good Sweater?

You may ask, “What makes a good sweater?” Here are a few tips for purchasing sweaters for felting.

Make sure they are at least 80-100% wool if you want them to truly felt.
Thin sweaters like cashmere are nice for lining, but not great for a slipper sole.
Thicker sweaters will only get bulkier when you wash them. It is good to have some of these on hand for slipper soles, purses, or projects needing some density.
Sweaters that have a lot of heavy texture or patterns may not feel so good on your feet or hands if used for a slipper or mittens. Just use your hands to feel the sweater and imagine what it could be used for.

Look for other wool clothing like SCARFS and JACKETS.
If the project you are making requires some stretch to the fabric, make sure the wool garment you are buying has some stretch to it.
Buy a variety of colors, patterns, and textures. I like to have a good selection of plain colors on hand.
Thrift stores are great for sweaters, but GARAGE or TAG SALES are where it’s at! You can usually pick a good wool sweater up at a garage sale for 1-3 buckaroos. (The garage sale season has started in my area) YEA!
Thrift store sweaters seem to run from $3 to $7. It just depends.

This is how you FELT wool sweaters. Felting wool requires three conditions — heat, moisture, and friction — which can be provided by your washing machine and dryer. Here are a few tips.

Use a hot-water wash, a cold-water rinse, and the usual amount of laundry soap.
You can add a pair of washable sneakers or a few tennis balls to help agitate and cause friction.
Dry the sweaters in the dryer on the highest heat setting. Put the sneakers or tennis balls in the dryer too. This will tighten the fibers even more.
If you are not quite satisfied with the texture, you can repeat this process a few more times. (Once usually does it for most sweaters.)
The beauty of using felted wool is that it will not fray when cut.
Store the felted sweaters in bins where you can see what is inside. If you have several sweaters, as I do, it is helpful to sort the bins by colors or by light and dark colors.

100% wool sweater before felting

After felting

SAVE ALL OF YOUR WOOL SWEATER SCRAPS!!!

I have learned to save even the smallest scraps of your felted wool.

They come in handy for smaller projects. One project I posted on using small wool scraps can be found here.

Look on my Etsy and Website store shops for fun ideas of what you can make with felted wool sweaters!
Stay posted!

If you have any questions, send me a note.
Happy wool sweater hunting!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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.

DIY how to felt wool sweaters recycled sweater projects Recyclling upcycled sweater projects wool

Sweater Heart Hand Warmer Tutorial

It’s almost Valentine’s Day, YEA! I love this holiday! I always like to make some kind of Valentine’s gift each year, and I think this year I am going to give these fun heart-shaped hand warmers.

They are WAY easy to make and will be easy to mail to my family and friends.

I am terrible at sending out Christmas cards, but I enjoy making and sending out Valentine’s cards with a personalized note (of course).

That is one of my pet peeves, getting a generic card or letter in the mail.

Very rarely do you get something in the mail besides bills and advertisements.

Don’t you think getting a card in the mail with your name HANDWRITTEN and maybe even a cute sticker on the back of the envelope is fun?

My mother-in-law and I still send notes back and forth occasionally in the mail, and I just love it.

We do converse with email, but there is just something about a written note that lifts your spirits.

Even with her arthritic hands, she still sends beautiful handwritten letters.

These little rice bags do work quite well. Just pop them in the microwave for 30-40 seconds and place them in your coat pockets. They are a great thing to send your kids off to school with or take in the car on the way to work.

So……go to your felted sweater, fleece, or flannel stash, pick out some cute, bright colors, and get to work. with your handwritten Valentine’s note, send a set of cozy heart-shaped hand warmers.

1- Cut out four hearts

Click HERE to download the heart pattern.

2- Sew the heart

Place the WRONG sides of the sweater hearts facing each other.

Using a 1/4-inch seam allowance, sew around the heart, leaving a 2-inch opening. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam.

3- Fill with 1/2 – 3/4 cup flax seeds or rice using a funnel.

Flax seeds don’t put off as much aroma as rice and tend to stay warmer a little longer, but rice still works quite well.

Go back to the sewing machine and sew the opening closed.

Ta-dah! There you have it.
Finish them off with a ribbon and a note explaining how to heat and use the rice bags.

Check out my therapeutic rice bag pattern set in my shop.

The heart and rectangle hand warmers, neck bag, eye pillow, back soother, and foot warmer patterns are included.

My husband and I have become wimps.

We heat the foot warmer every night and throw it in the bottom of our bed.

It works like a charm and keeps our feet nice and toasty! This puppy stays warm for a good 3 hours or more. All of these bags are easy and fun to sew up.

Here is a link for the foot warmer tutorial.

If you have any questions, send me a note.
Have fun sewing!

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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.

DIY Lavender EYE PILLOW | Easy Sewing Tutorial

March 24, 2020 / Clothing and Accessories, Free Sewing Patterns, SEWING, Sewing Videos, VIDEO AND AUDIO LIBRARY / 6 Comments

DIY Essential Oil Travel Case: Take your favorite oils with you

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The Benefits Of Using An Eye Pillow

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DIY Foot Warmer Tutorial

January 5, 2016 / Clothing and Accessories, HEALTH AND WELLBEING, Self Care, SEWING / No Comments

DIY Free Patterns hand warmers Holidays Patterns recycled sweater recycling rice bags Sewing soothing sacks therapy bags upcycled sweater projects Valentine's day gifts

Upcycled Sweater Scarf Tutorial

Here is ANOTHER way to use up your felted sweaters.

This sweater scarf is such a fun, easy project to make.

I get comments on this scarf every time I wear it.

The most time consuming part is cutting out the squares.

Sweater Scarf Instructions:

1- Cut out 16 – 18 squares that measure 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 inches.

Use sweaters that have been felted. (shrunk down by washing in very hot water and dried in the dryer)

2- Arrange the squares in a pattern that suites you.

Mix and match colors, textures and patterns that feel good to your eye.

Then stack them up in that order.

Starting with the piece on top, place two pieces together and pin in place.

3- Using a 1/4 inch seam allowance, simply sew along pinned edge.

Back stitch at the beginning and end of seam.

No need to worry about the edges fraying if the sweater has been felted.

4- Open those pieces up and place the next square on top, right sides together.

Pin in place and sew the seam.

Repeat this process until all pieces are sewn together and the sweater scarf is the length that you desire.

Ta dah! Now wasn’t that fun and easy!

Now you have a stylin, whimsical, one of a kind scarf

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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.

DIY felted wool scarf Free Patterns recycling scarf tutorial Sewing sweater scarf tutorial upcycled sweater projects wool scarf

Upcycled Slipper Boots!

Upcycled Slipper Boots

Here is another fun way to use up those sweaters you’ve been collecting or holding onto. These upcycled slipper boots are easy to make up and you will love weary them around.

I love the feel of wool and sweaters on my feet. My other pattern design is great, but this slipper pattern design hugs your feet and lower legs in cozy comfort. A fun easy project to whip up.

Sweater Socks

I have also included a tutorial on how to make sweater boot socks. What a fun accessory to add to your wardrobe.

I have sure got my mileage out of this sweater. This was a good sweater!

Be on the look out for cool sweaters, the SLEEVES in particular, to make some awesome slipper boots and boot socks. It’s garage sale and yard sale time, which is a great place to pick up some sweaters for a great price!

The NEW pattern is available on my Etsy shop or my website shop.

Jan Howell

My intention for this website is to share tips and tutorials that I have found on my journey of life that has brought me joy, improved health, and peace, in hopes that it will do the same for you. I hope you'll join me on this journey!

Connect:

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.

Heart Gift Tags Items & Materials Needed

Instructions for Cutting out Heart Gift Tags

Heart Gift Tags Paper Prep

Heart Application

How to Make a Heart Garland

Be sure to check out my other Valentine crafts and gifts.

Jan Howell

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DIY Sweater Pumpkins Materials & Items Needed

If using upcycled wool sweaters read and watch this video for some great tips.

DIY Sweater Pumpkins Instructions

1 – Cut out 6 sweater pumpkin panels.

2 -Using the leaf template, cut out one light green leaf and one dark green leaf.

Sewing Sweater Pumpkins Leaf

3 – Stack the leaves on top of each other, with the dark leaf on top.

Using the leaf template as a visual, sew the leaf veins using a straight stitch on the sewing machine.

4 -Apply a strip of hot glue or craft glue along the back center vein of the leaf.

Sewing Sweater Pumpkins

5 – With Right Sides Together (RST) place two of the pumpkin panels together and pin in place.

6 – Sew the third panel to the two you just sewed together with (RST).

7 – With (RST) place the two pieces together. Line up the top and bottom tips and pin them in place.

8 – Trim the bottom and top tips.

Stuffing the Sweater Pumpkins

9 – Stuff the pumpkin through the hole you left.

10-Sew opening closed.

11-Making pumpkin contour

12- Repeat this back and forth a few times until you get the plumpness you desire.

Adding Sweater Pumpkin Stem

13- Cut tree branch.

14- Wrap the wire around the stem several times and then wrap the other end around a pencil to make the curly vine.

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