10 Creative Ways to Reuse Old Sweaters Instead of Tossing Them
Give them a new life with one of these cozy DIY projects.
Instead of tossing old sweaters, get creative and turn them into cozy accessories and stylish home decor. Whether it's a well-loved sweater with pilled sleeves or one that shrunk in the wash and no longer fits, there are fun ways to give it new purpose rather than throwing it out. Below, you'll find 10 smart ways to reuse old sweaters—and the good news is, you don't have to be a sewing pro or a seasoned crafter to give these DIY projects a go.
Old sweaters are a lovely way to infuse a textural element into your space—think an upcycled sweater throw pillow or a fun cover for your favorite coffee mug. If you want to try your hand at creating some accessories, a pair of mittens or a sweater headband are just a few beginner-friendly sewing projects.
So, before you trash or donate that pile of old sweaters, go ahead and reuse them for one of these simple and budget-friendly DIY ideas.
Design Throw Pillow Covers
Make your own version of the popular sweater throw pillows by repurposing an old cable knit sweater. They're easy to make and you can either use the sweater material on both sides, or pair it with a different fabric on the back. Sweater pillows are both classic and cozy—and no one will ever know they used to be part of your winter wardrobe!
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DIY a Gift Bag
Reuse an old sweater as a festive little gift bag for sweet treats and small presents. Sweater sleeves are particularly well suited for this—cut the sleeve to the desired length, sewing the bottom and using the hemmed sleeve as the top. Add a colorful bow and viola—an elegant handmade gift bag.
Make a Mug Cozy
A mug cozy is the ultimate way to make a hot cup of cocoa extra warm and comforting! Create a custom mug cozy by cutting a strip of sweater fabric to fit around your favorite mug. Then, use a button closure to add a decorative detail and make the cozy easy to remove for washing.
Fashion a Headband
If there's an old sweater you always loved wearing, keep a small piece of it by fashioning it into a stylish headband. It's a great sewing project for beginners, and one which can be done by hand or using a sewing machine. Tip: Use a sweater with a little bit of stretch and cut the bottom hem or a sleeve to make your headband.
Sew Christmas Stockings
If you love a good holiday craft, grab an old sweater and turn it into a festive Christmas stocking. You'll either want to use a thicker sweater for this project, or line the interior of the stocking with sturdy fabric so it maintains its shape. Personalize the sweater stocking with pompoms, buttons, ribbon, or a monogram—the possibilities are endless!
Get Crafty
Get your craft supplies out and give old sweaters new life as charming handmade decorations. Pick a sweater with interesting woven details, fun colors, or a visually appealing pattern. Cut and frame sweater pieces using wooden embroidery hoops of different sizes. Stick with a simple look, or add extra detailing with ribbon, beads, and buttons.
Get Practical With a Storage Vessel
Instead of tossing a thick cable knit sweater, give it new purpose and upcycle it into a functional storage vessel. Pair it with another soft but sturdy fabric such as fleece or sherpa to line the basket's interior. It makes for a pretty and practical storage container for small toys or craft supplies such as yarn.
Transform It Into a Hot Water Bottle Cover
Make a custom cover for a hot water bottle out of a soft and snuggly sweater you no longer wear. Materials such as wool or cashmere are ideal for this project. Adorn the water bottle neck with ribbon or decorative pompoms, and keep the opening clear so you can easily fill and empty the hot water bottle.
Fall for Autumnal Sweater Pumpkins
The perfect nod to sweater weather, these textured pumpkins are a fun and easy fall DIY project. Pick an old sweater that complements your fall decor color palette, then use it to cover a faux pumpkin. Wrap the stem in natural twine, and you have a lovely fall accent you can bring out year after year.
Try a Pair of Mittens
A simple sewing project turns an old sweater into a cozy pair of mittens! Trace around your hands to make your own sewing pattern on a sheet of paper, then use it as a cutting template on the sweater. Sewing hack: Use the bottom hem or sleeve cuffs for the mitten wrist cuffs.
Maria Sabella is a lifestyle writer with a passion for home and interiors — from paint colors and holiday decor to the latest design trends. Her work has appeared in outlets including Better Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, BuzzFeed and Bustle.
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