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?

Handmade with a Past: Tuesday’s Top Recycled Etsy Find

What better way to mark a special occasion than with a little bit of recycled luxury? These Veuve Clicquot Champagne bottle earrings are a fabulous way to add a touch of glam to any celebration—and they’re made from upcycled Champagne bottles! I can already picture wearing them to a dinner party or popping them on for a glass of bubbly to really feel like you’re celebrating in style.

The clever use of recycled glass from such an iconic brand brings a fresh, fun twist to your jewelry collection. I absolutely love that these earrings turn something so familiar and extravagant into wearable art, while keeping sustainability at the forefront. It’s such a cool, chic way to repurpose something that’s already had its moment and give it a new one.

Why they’re perfect for you:

  • Made from recycled Champagne bottles, these earrings bring eco-conscious style to your jewelry collection

  • A unique accessory that turns everyday luxury into wearable art

  • Ideal for special occasions, wine lovers, or anyone who enjoys adding a bit of sparkle to their outfit

Whether you’re attending a wedding, a special dinner, or just want to add a little pop to your day, these earrings are sure to make a statement. A stylish way to bring sustainability into your wardrobe—cheers to that!