I was pulling out my winter clothes the other day, you know, the bin you stuff away every spring and forget about and out came a pile of old sweaters.
Some were worn thin, a few had little holes, and honestly, most of them hadn’t been touched in years. Still, I couldn’t bring myself to throw them out.
Even though I already bought new sweaters for this season because trends, something about the texture and coziness of the old ones made me pause.
That’s when I started thinking, maybe they weren’t done yet. After these 20 simple and smart DIYs, I’ll never look at an old sweater the same way again. You won’t either.
#1. Classic Sweater Pillow Covers
What about turning an old sweater into a pillow cover? It is one of the easiest ways to bring warmth and handmade charm into your home.
This project works especially well with neutral knits, think earthy browns, creamy whites, or soft greys.
Whether tossed on a couch or layered on a bed, these pillows offer texture and heart, especially when paired with plaid or flannel patterns for extra seasonal contrast.
Materials Needed
- 1 old cable-knit sweater (size L or XL)
- 16″x16″ or 18″x18″ pillow insert
- Scissors
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
- Optional: buttons, zipper, or envelope closure materials
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut two equal squares from the sweater slightly larger than your pillow insert (about 17″x17″ for a 16″ pillow).
Step 2: Place the squares right sides together and sew around three sides, leaving one edge open for inserting the pillow.
Step 3: Turn the cover right side out, insert the pillow, and hand stitch the final edge closed or add a button/zipper if preferred.
Tip: If the sweater is super stretchy, consider adding an inner cotton liner to help the shape hold beautifully over time.
#2. Cozy Sweater Patchwork Blanket
Some sweaters hold memories too dear to toss. Stitch them into a blanket, and those memories become warmth itself.
This beautiful patchwork throw turns forgotten knits into something you’ll reach for on every chilly morning.
You’re not just recycling fabric, you’re preserving comfort in its purest form.
Materials Needed
- 4-6 old sweaters (wool, cable-knit, or fleece, adult size L or XL)
- Scissors or rotary cutter
- Measuring tape or quilting ruler
- Sewing machine or heavy-duty needle and thread
- 10-12 buttons (optional)
- Backing fabric or fleece (approximately 50″×60″)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Wash and dry all sweaters to shrink and clean the fibers. This also tightens the weave for better stitching.
Step 2: Cut the sweaters into equal-sized squares, typically 6″×6″. You should use a ruler to keep the edges straight.
Step 3: Arrange your squares on the floor or table to find a layout you like. You can mix textures and colors for interest.
Step 4: Sew the squares together row by row. Then sew the rows into a full panel.
Step 5: Attach a backing fabric using a basic stitch around the edges. Next, add buttons at intersections for extra charm and durability.
#3. Upcycled Sweater Mittens Holiday Door Hanger
There’s something magical about a cozy welcome on a winter night. This mitten door hanger captures that warmth in the most delightful way.
By transforming an old cable-knit sweater into soft mittens and pairing them with pine sprigs, berries, and soft lights, you create a rustic greeting that feels like a hug.
Specially, the red bow and twinkle lights add a festive sparkle that’s hard to ignore, making it a beautiful piece for holiday charm or as a handmade gift.
Materials Needed
- 1 white cable-knit sweater (size L or XL)
- 6-8 faux pine branches
- 4-6 red berry picks
- Battery-operated fairy lights (1 strand)
- Red ribbon (1″ wide, 18-24″ length)
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- Twine or jute string (20″)
- Cardboard insert or stuffing (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut out mitten shapes from the sweater including two pieces per mitten. You can use a real mitten as a template or draw your own.
Step 2: Sew or glue the mitten pieces together, leaving the tops open. Then add some light stuffing or cardboard inside if you’d like them to hold their shape.
Step 3: Glue the two mittens side-by-side onto a felt or fabric backing for support. You should leave a small gap between them for natural draping.
Step 4: Insert faux greenery and berry picks into the top openings of each mitten. Next, add the battery fairy lights and tuck the wires discreetly inside.
Step 5: Tie a red bow around the mitten cuffs and attach twine to the top for easy hanging on a door hook or nail.
#4. Stacked Sweater Pumpkins Centerpiece
This project feels like fall wrapped in yarn. These stacked pumpkins are the perfect way to bring warmth and texture to your autumn decor without picking up a single carving knife.
Using sweater sleeves or knit scraps in orange, cream, and mustard, you can easily build a soft tower of pumpkins that won’t rot, wilt, or require storage in the garage.
Whether you place them on a mantle, dining table, or porch entry, they bring instant coziness and a splash of handmade charm.
Materials Needed
- 3 sweater sleeves or body sections (orange, white, mustard)
- Poly-fill or old pillow stuffing (approx. 2-3 cups per pumpkin)
- Twine or strong thread
- Brown felt or stick
- Faux leaves, flowers, berries (as embellishments)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Optional: small plate or wooden base
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut sweater pieces into 10″-12″ rectangles. Sew or glue one end closed and fill each tube with stuffing.
Step 2: Close the open end and tie strong thread around the ball to form pumpkin sections, wrap and tie tightly to create ridges.
Step 3: Make a short stem using a twig or rolled felt and glue it into the top of each pumpkin.
Step 4: Stack your pumpkins largest to smallest, securing each with hot glue.
Step 5: Decorate the layers with faux leaves, sunflowers, or seasonal berries to complete the harvest look.
#5. Sweater-Covered Lampshade
Sometimes, it only takes one soft detail to transform an entire room. This sweater lampshade wrap adds instant texture and warmth to your space, making it feel more inviting without changing the furniture or paint.
Using a sweater cuff or body section, you’ll create a snug, stylish cover that gives your lamp a cozy winter wardrobe.
Materials Needed
- 1 cable-knit sweater (light color, size M-L)
- Drum lampshade (approx. 10″-12″ diameter)
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun or fabric glue (optional)
- Needle and thread (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut the sweater across the torso or use the lower hem, depending on the size of your lampshade. You’ll want a tube that slips over snugly.
Step 2: Stretch the sweater piece over the lampshade, adjusting the knit to sit evenly around the frame. Then align any cable-knit patterns to center if possible.
Step 3: Tuck the top and bottom edges inside the lampshade and secure with glue or small stitches if needed. Make sure no fabric touches the bulb area for safety.
#6. Feminine Sweater Leg Warmers with Lace Trim
When the chill sets in and you still want to wear your favorite dress, these DIY leg warmers swoop in with both elegance and practicality.
Crafted from soft sweater sleeves and finished with delicate lace trim, they add a cozy layer without sacrificing charm.
These are the kind of accessories that whisper vintage romance and look right at home with boots or ballet flats. Bonus, you get to rescue those worn-out sweaters hiding in your drawer and turn them into something beautiful and wearable again.
Materials Needed
- 1 pair of long sweater sleeves (light or medium knit)
- Stretchy lace trim (approx. 24″, 12″ per leg)
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
- Scissors
- Optional: pins or clips for holding lace in place
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut off both sleeves of your sweater, making sure they’re long enough to cover from knee to ankle (about 18″–20″).
Step 2: Turn the sleeves inside out and hem the raw cut edge, if needed, to prevent fraying.
Step 3: With the right side out, pin the lace trim to the top or bottom edge of each sleeve, your choice depending on the look you want.
Step 4: Stitch the lace in place using a straight or zigzag stitch for flexibility. Now, try them on and admire how instantly polished your legs look.
#7. Cozy Sweater Christmas Tree Trio
Simple triangles, transformed into festive trees, these little sweater-covered cones bring handmade joy to any holiday table or mantel.
Using scraps of knit sweaters in wintry tones, you’ll create a charming forest of soft trees that feel both rustic and refined.
You can keep them neutral, go bold with color, or match your existing decor style. They’re quick, satisfying, and add just the right amount of whimsy to your seasonal setup.
Materials Needed
- 3 old sweaters (different patterns/colors work best)
- Cardboard or foam board
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- Scissors
- Decorative embellishments (pearls, mini bells, rhinestones, buttons)
- Optional: red/green fabric or felt
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut cardboard into tall triangle shapes, around 8″–12″ high. These will form the tree bodies.
Step 2: Wrap each triangle in sweater fabric, gluing tightly along the back or bottom for a clean finish. Make sure the fabric pattern runs vertically for a tall, tree-like feel.
Step 3: Trim excess fabric and glue securely along the edges. If needed, glue a piece of felt on the back to cover seams.
Step 4: Decorate your trees with pearls, buttons, or any sparkly bits you have on hand. Then stick to one tone per tree or mix it up!
Step 5: Arrange them in a trio on a table runner or shelf for a cozy, sweater-weather forest scene.
#8. Sweater-Wrapped Vases and Candle Holders
This project is proof that small changes make a big difference. Wrapping glass vases and candle holders in old sweater sleeves adds texture, softness, and an inviting wintery feel to your decor.
Whether you’re styling a dinner table, entry console, or shelf, these sweater sleeves work like charm bracelets for your vases.
Also, use matching tones for a calm, clean look, or go mix-and-match to keep it playful.
Materials Needed
- 1-2 old sweaters (thin or chunky knits, neutral tones work great)
- Clear glass vases, jars, or candle holders (various heights)
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun or double-sided tape
- Optional: twine, ribbon, or buttons
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut sleeves or sweater sections into tubes sized to fit the height of your jars or vases. Make sure the knit stretches slightly for a snug fit.
Step 2: Slide the sweater piece over the vase or candle holder. If needed, trim excess and glue or tape the edge on the underside.
Step 3: Optionally, tie a thin ribbon or twine around the middle, or embellish with a few buttons to dress it up.
Step 4: Arrange with seasonal accents like white pumpkins, painted leaves, or twigs for a complete look.
See also: 25+ Genius DIY Denim Ideas That Breathe New Life into Old Jeans
#9. Sweater-Inspired Embroidery Hoop Ornaments
Using old sweater scraps inside embroidery hoops, you can craft pieces that radiate warmth and nostalgia. Each one feels like a soft whisper of Christmas mornings and handmade love.
Paired with jingle bells, plaid bows, evergreen clippings, and stamped tags like “JOY” or “PEACE,” they become more than decorations
Of course, you can hang them on your tree, gift them to neighbors, or use them to dress up holiday packages with a heartfelt touch.
Materials Needed
- Old white or cream knit sweater (cable knit preferred)
- 3 small embroidery hoops (3″-4″ diameter)
- Plaid ribbon (1″ wide, cut into 8″ strips)
- 6-8 small pine clippings or faux greenery
- 6 mini jingle bells
- 3 white fabric strips with holiday stamped words (4″-5″ each)
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- Twine for hanging
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut small squares from the sweater slightly larger than your embroidery hoops. Then stretch them evenly inside each hoop and tighten to secure.
Step 2: Trim the excess sweater fabric around the back and glue down the edges for a clean finish.
Step 3: Hot glue greenery at the top of each hoop, followed by a plaid bow.
Step 4: Add 1-2 jingle bells on twine and secure them in place beneath the greenery.
#10. Soft Sweater Star Ornaments
These sweater star ornaments feel like little hugs for your tree. With their soft texture, cable-knit charm, and cozy neutral tones, they bring that handmade magic into your holiday decor.
You can hang them with velvet ribbon, tuck them into gift baskets, or even use them as drawer sachets filled with lavender or pine.
Each one has its own personality depending on the sweater you choose. And they’re simple, heartfelt, and endlessly giftable.
Materials Needed
- Gray or neutral cable-knit sweater (size M or larger)
- Paper and pencil
- Scissors
- Needle and thread
- Poly-fill or stuffing (small handful per star)
- Ribbon or twine (6″ per ornament)
- Optional: crochet trim, felt backing
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Create a simple star template from paper (about 4″-6″ wide). Then trace and cut two identical stars from the sweater fabric.
Step 2: Place the stars with the right sides facing out. Next, sew or blanket-stitch around the edge, leaving a small gap.
Step 3: Stuff the star lightly with poly-fill, then close the gap with matching thread.
Step 4: Add a ribbon loop at the top corner for hanging. You can glue or stitch it securely in place.
#11. Sweater Sleeve Gift Bags
Made from soft sweater sleeves, these cozy little gift bags wrap your presents in warmth and charm. Each one has a handmade touch that makes any gift feel more thoughtful, even if it’s something simple inside.
Additionally, use them for holiday treats, candles, handmade soaps, or little surprises under the tree.
Materials Needed
- Old sweater sleeves (medium to thick knit works best)
- Ribbon, lace, or twine (12″-18″ per bag)
- Scissors
- Needle and thread or fabric glue
- Optional: felt tags, buttons, or mini bells
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut a sleeve to the desired bag height, adding about 1″ for seams. Then turn the cut piece inside out.
Step 2: Sew or glue the bottom closed. If you want a flat base, pinch the bottom corners and sew across them to create a boxy shape.
Step 3: Turn the bag right side out. Next, place your gift inside and gather the top together.
Step 4: Tie it closed with ribbon or twine. Now you can add lace, tags, or embellishments to match the occasion.
#12. Recycled Sweater Owl Pillows
These owl pillows aren’t just adorable, they’re a clever way to turn an old sweater into something sweet and huggable.
With their big felt eyes and soft, textured bodies, they make cozy companions for a child’s room, a reading nook, or even your couch. You don’t need fancy sewing skills, just a little patience, some fabric scraps, and your imagination.
Each owl will have its own personality depending on the fabric you use, so feel free to mix colors or make a whole little owl family. They’re almost too cute to give away.
Materials Needed
- 1 thick knit sweater (size M-L)
- Poly-fill or soft stuffing (approx. 1-2 cups per owl)
- White and black felt
- Brown felt or faux leather
- Scissors
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
- Paper + pen
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Draw a simple owl shape on paper including rounded body, ears at the top and cut it out. You can use this as your template.
Step 2: Lay your sweater flat and cut two owl shapes (front and back) using your template.
Step 3: Sew the two sides together inside-out, leaving a small opening at the bottom. Then turn it right-side out.
Step 4: Stuff your owl firmly, then sew the bottom closed with a hidden stitch.
Step 5: Cut two large white felt circles and two smaller black ones for eyes. Then add a triangle beak from brown felt and glue or sew them in place.
#13. Chunky Knit Sweater Tote Bag
Made from a thick cable-knit sweater, this bag brings both structure and softness to your winter wardrobe. It’s big enough for books, stylish enough for brunch, and one hundred percent handmade charm.
Specially, the folded neckline becomes a clever design feature, while the sturdy handle makes it practical for everyday use.
Bonus, you can pair it with tights and a plaid skirt, and suddenly your outfit tells a story, one of creativity, comfort, and intentional style.
Materials Needed
- 1 chunky cable-knit sweater (size L or XL, preferably wool blend)
- Heavy-duty interfacing or lining fabric (approx. 18″x18″)
- Needle and heavy thread or sewing machine
- Scissors
- Optional: magnetic snap
- Optional: matching yarn
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut out two square panels from the sweater’s front and back (around 16″x16″). You should try to center the cable pattern.
Step 2: Cut a long rectangle from the sleeve or remaining fabric to form the strap (about 4″x20″). Then reinforce it with interfacing or thick lining.
Step 3: With right sides facing, sew the panels together on three sides to form the bag body. Next, add a lining if you want extra structure.
Step 4: Attach the strap securely to the side seams. Finally, add any closures or embellishments you like such as buttons, patches, or embroidery.
#14. Cozy Wrapped Sweater Wreath
Made from strips of old sweaters and loosely wrapped with neutral yarn, this winter wreath balances warmth with understated elegance.
A trio of frosted pinecones adds a touch of nature and seasonal charm. It’s the kind of project that feels like bringing a favorite knit blanket outdoors.
Perfect for wintertime or a rustic cabin theme, this wreath gives your front door personality without any sparkle or fuss. Just texture, tone, and handmade beauty.
Materials Needed
- Old sweaters (in grey, cream, or neutral tones)
- Foam or straw wreath form (12″-14″ diameter)
- Thick cream-colored yarn (approx. 10-12 yards)
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- 3–5 pinecones (faux snow-dusted or natural)
- Twine or ribbon
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut your sweaters into strips about 3″-4″ wide and long enough to wrap around the wreath form.
Step 2: Glue or pin the ends of each strip to the back of the wreath, overlapping slightly to cover the form entirely. You can mix different sweater textures for visual interest.
Step 3: Wrap the thick yarn loosely around the whole wreath in random, crisscross patterns. Then secure the ends at the back with glue.
Step 4: Glue pinecones at the top or bottom center, depending on your preferred look. Now, add a loop of twine to the back for easy hanging.
#15. Chunky Sweater Bangle Bracelets
Who says fashion can’t be soft? These sweater-wrapped bangle bracelets are a cozy twist on classic accessories.
Using just a few scraps from your old knits, you can craft stylish wristwear that feels as warm as it looks. They’re perfect for pairing with oversized cardigans, autumn dresses, or even giving as thoughtful handmade gifts.
With different knits and textures, each bracelet becomes its own little work of art.
Materials Needed
- Old sweaters (ribbed, cable-knit, or textured)
- Plastic or wooden bangles (standard size)
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
- Needle and thread (optional)
- Optional: buttons, charms, or lace
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut a strip from your sweater sleeve or hem, long enough to wrap around the bangle, and wide enough to fold over the edges if desired.
Step 2: Apply glue to the inside of the bangle and carefully wrap the sweater strip around it, smoothing as you go.
Step 3: Tuck or trim any excess fabric on the inside, securing with glue or stitching if needed.
Step 4: Let dry completely. Then add embellishments like buttons, stitched initials, or even small lace pieces if you want to personalize them further.
#16. Sweater-Covered Storage Baskets
Turning a basic storage bin into something warm and stylish is easier than you’d think. If you’ve got a bulky sweater tucked in your closet that’s too nostalgic to toss but too worn to wear, this is its second life.
These cozy sweater-covered baskets not only add texture and charm to any room, but they’re also perfect for hiding clutter in plain sight.
Materials Needed
- 1 old cable-knit sweater (size L or XL)
- 1 collapsible storage bin or round laundry basket (12″-14″ diameter)
- Fabric scissors
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- Optional: 2 leather straps or thick ribbon (6″ each)
- Optional: liner fabric
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut the sweater body to fit the height and circumference of your basket, leaving a little extra at the top and bottom for folding over.
Step 2: Slide the sweater sleeve or torso piece over the bin snugly. Trim if needed to avoid puckering.
Step 3: Use hot glue to secure the sweater to the bin along the top and bottom edges, folding inward for clean seams.
Step 4: Attach leather straps or thick ribbon on either side to mimic handles (optional but adds polish).
Step 5: Finally, tuck in a soft liner or leave open depending on the look you love. Done!
#17. Adorable Sweater Snowman Decoration
Wow, this little snowman might just steal the show on your mantel. Soft, squishy, and full of character, he’s made entirely from an old white sweater and no two will ever look quite the same.
Topped with a playful knotted hat and embellished with mismatched buttons and a rustic twine scarf, he’s the perfect blend of charm and coziness.
You don’t need snow to build this guy, just a few supplies and a spare afternoon.
Materials Needed
- 1 white knit sweater (preferably textured, size M–L)
- Poly-fill or dried rice (about 2-3 cups)
- 3 buttons (varied sizes and colors)
- Scrap fabric or sweater cuff
- Small piece of orange felt
- Black beads
- Twine or ribbon (10″)
- Hot glue gun
- Rubber bands or string
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut a sleeve or sweater section into a rectangle (approx. 10″×14″). Then sew or glue one end closed and flip inside out.
Step 2: Fill the sweater tube with poly-fill or rice until plump. You can use rubber bands to divide the body and head, forming a snowman shape.
Step 3: Add a twine scarf around the neck and glue on buttons for the snowman’s belly.
Step 4: Glue on eyes and a small carrot nose made from orange felt.
Step 5: For the hat, tie one end of a sweater cuff or fabric strip and pop it on top of the snowman’s head. Then add embellishments like a crochet flower or pom-pom if you’d like!
#18. Sweater Wine Bottle Covers
Sometimes it’s the wrapping that makes the gift unforgettable. These cozy wine bottle covers made from old sweater sleeves turn any bottle into a charming holiday gift.
They feel like a warm hug in bottle form. Plus, add buttons, star ornaments, or faux fur trim to match your mood or theme.
Whether you’re bringing wine to a dinner party or gifting a homemade cordial, this sweater wrap makes it extra special.
Materials Needed
- 1-2 sweater sleeves (chunky knit or ribbed, size L-XL)
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun or fabric glue
- 3 buttons per cover
- Small holiday ornament or charm
- Optional: faux fur trim (8-10″)
- Twine or decorative string
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut the sweater sleeves to about 10″-12″ long. Make sure the width fits snugly around a standard wine bottle.
Step 2: Slide the sleeve onto the bottle. Then fold the top edge outward for a collar look, or trim and glue faux fur along the top for added flair.
Step 3: Decorate with buttons vertically down the front using hot glue. You can sew them on too if you prefer a more tailored look.
Step 4: Tie on a festive ornament with twine around the bottle neck or sew it directly to the knit fabric.
#19. Sweater Boot Cuffs with a Handmade Twist
Your boots deserve a little love too and these sweater boot cuffs deliver both style and comfort. Slip them over the top of your ankle boots, and instantly you’ve added a splash of texture and color that makes even simple outfits feel thoughtful.
Repurposing the sleeves of an old sweater into these cozy toppers is not only smart, it’s stylishly sustainable.
Bonus, these burgundy cuffs have a slight slouch and just enough detail to turn heads.
Materials Needed
- 1 thick-knit sweater (preferably with ribbing or decorative stitching)
- Scissors
- Needle and thread or fabric glue
- Optional: buttons, flowers, or bows
- Dark yarn or cord (24″)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut the sweater sleeves about 8″–10″ from the cuff. This gives you two boot cuffs that stretch nicely around your lower calf or ankles.
Step 2: If needed, sew or glue the raw edge to prevent fraying. You can try them on and adjust the length to your liking.
Step 3: Add embellishments like crocheted flowers, bows, or wooden buttons for a personal touch.
Step 4: For added flair, weave contrasting yarn through the design and tie a small knot or bow at the side.
#20. Sweater-Covered Stool Makeover
This clever makeover turns a plain plastic or metal stool into something you’d actually want to show off in your living room.
By wrapping it in a chunky sweater, you’re not just softening the look, you’re adding character and a handcrafted touch.
With the right texture and color, you can easily match it to your decor or make it the standout piece in a minimalist room.
Materials Needed
- 1 large chunky knit sweater or crochet panel (approx. 20″×40″)
- Old stool or ottoman (cube or round)
- Scissors
- Needle and thread or hot glue
- Optional: elastic band
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Measure your stool’s height and circumference. Then cut your sweater or crochet piece slightly larger to allow for stretch and seams.
Step 2: Wrap the fabric snugly around the sides of the stool and either glue it down or stitch the edges together at the back or underneath.
Step 3: For a cleaner bottom, fold the ends under and sew in an elastic band to create a fitted sleeve that stays in place.
Step 4: Adjust the top edges neatly over the seat. You can add a foam layer under the knit for a more padded look if you like.
Read more: 22 Genius Ways to Turn Old Shirts into Handy Everyday Items
