Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Thrifting Old Sweaters For New Uses

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Between the holidays coming up, crafting for charity and loved ones all year, and the economy here in America consistently on a downturn lately (or does it just feel like it?), I’ve been looking for unique ways to up-cycle found and thrifted items for either my use or holiday gift use. All this week I’ll be featuring some great projects, starting with two ideas for thrift store sweaters!

 

(image from Knit Quest’s website)

The first is this “Recycled Sweater” idea from Knit Quest. She links to a tutorial for taking a several sizes too big sweater from the thrift store, felting it down a bit, and turning it into a zip-front masterpiece!

 

(image from Craft Stylish website)

The second comes from Leethal’s first Craft Stylish post on holiday gift ideas – recycling sweater yarn! She takes you step by step through picking the “best” sweaters at the thrift store to taking apart the seams to washing your yarn once you’ve unraveled your sweater!

 

(image from Craft Stylish Website)

It’s not only the perfect way for a knitter or crocheter to save money on yarn this season, it’s a great way to keep up with your goal of reducing, reusing and recycling.

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Comments

  1. I love these ideas about recycling sweaters. Another idea is to use old sweaters to make new beach ball pillows. I have pictures and instructions at my site (FunInTheMaking.net).
    Make something today!
    Jane

  3. I love recycling sweaters to make little loveable things…I’ve also tried the idea you mentioned. I took a nice,too big wool sweater, and made it into a little lined sweater coat for my daughter this year. There are so many lovely natural fibers out there just waiting to be repurposed!

Have you read?

Discover Your Unique Style with Second Chances by Macy Eleni

If you’re someone who gets a little thrill from discovering a hidden gem in a secondhand store or loves the idea of curating a closet full of personality and stories, Second Chances by Macy Eleni is an absolute gem of a read. This book isn’t just about shopping—it’s about reclaiming your personal style in a way that’s sustainable, creative, and unapologetically YOU.

Macy brings all the charm and know-how of a seasoned thrifting queen, sharing her journey and passion for sustainable fashion in a really relatable, encouraging way. From practical thrifting tips to ideas for tailoring and revamping your finds, it’s packed with advice for anyone looking to ditch fast fashion and embrace a more mindful, expressive way of dressing.

What I personally loved is how Macy makes space for all styles, all sizes, and all personalities. It’s not about looking like everyone else—it’s about discovering what makes YOU feel amazing, and doing it with flair. For someone like me who’s drawn to quirky, eclectic home décor and wardrobe choices, this book was like a breath of fresh thrifted air.

Whether you’re brand new to thrifting or a seasoned op-shopper, Second Chances will have you looking at your closet—and your shopping habits—in a whole new way.

Shellie