Craft Ideas You Can Make from a Sweater

Learn how to craft those unused sweaters into new recycled items. Sweaters are a great source for crafting projects because they come in a wide variety of colors, patterns and textures. You can use sweaters that you no longer wear or seek out thrift stores and garage sales to purchase them at a bargain. Follow the directions below to craft some wonderful sweater items you are sure to enjoy.

How To Craft A Tote Bag

Materials: A 100% wool pullover sweater (XL), washer and dryer, detergent, scissors, thread and sewing machine.

Directions: The first step is to felt the sweater. This is accomplished by washing the wool sweater in a washing machine with hot water and a little detergent. After washing, dry the sweater in the dryer on the regular heat cycle. This will cause the wool to shrink and felt. When the sweater is removed from the dryer it will have shrunk and should feel tight and dense.

Cut a straight line across the front of the sweater from one side seam to the next, just below the sleeves. Set the top section of the sweater aside for now. The bottom section of the sweater will be used for your tote bag. Now turn the fabric inside out and sew along the bottom. Stitch around the top opening of the tote bag. This will prevent the wool from stretching after prolonged use.

Now you are going to use the sleeve from the top section that was set aside to make a strap for the tote bag. Begin by cutting the length of the sleeve 2" longer than you want your strap to be and make it 4" wide.

Next, fold the fabric into thirds lengthwise, and stitch along the edge. Sew the ends of the strap to each side of the tote bag, on the inside. Sew each one in an X pattern to reinforce the strength which will make it sturdy for toting your items. Enjoy your new hand crafted tote bag!

How To Craft A Sweater Pillow

Materials: Pillow form (any size), tape measure, chalk, knit sweater, scissors, sewing machine, thread, straight pins and a sewing needle.

Directions: Measure the dimensions of your pillow form and add 1 inch to each measurement. This will give you an additional 1/2" seam allowance when sewing your pillow cover.

Lay the sweater on a flat work surface. Measure and mark the sweater to your pillow form measurements. Using a pair of scissors, cut along your marks through both layers of fabric, this will give you the front and back panels for your pillow cover.

Place the the front and back panels with the right sides together and pin them in place. Sew 3 sides of the pillow cover together along the 1/2" seam allowance. Turn the cover right side out and insert your pillow form. Hand stitch the opening closed. You sweater pillow craft is complete, now display and enjoy!