As the winter season comes back around, you’re more than likely replenishing your supply of sweaters for the chilly months to come. When you come across those sweaters that don’t fit right anymore or that scream, “What were you thinking?!” don’t move immediately toward the garbage! Instead, try these 18 DIY projects you can accomplish with those old sweaters.

 

1 . Mittens

Sweaters with fun patterns should definitely be recycled. Sew them into some mittens to keep warm all winter.

 

2. Or Go Fingerless

Easier for texting and less restrictive, this fingerless version of your winter mittens are just as adorable.

 

3. Sweater Wreath

Use your old sweaters for a unique decorative wreath. For more creative wreath ideas, check here.

 

4. DIY Legwarmers

An adorable and cozy fashion statement for the winter, these legwarmers are simple to make from sweaters and can be accessorized in a million different ways!

 

5. Cup Cozies

Because who says you can’t dress up your cups with some comfy sweater cozies?

 

6. Eco-Friendly Tote Bag

While you’re giving the environment some love by not trashing your sweaters, show some double love by sewing yourself this reusable grocery bag.

 

7. Vase Decor

For a really unique and rustic feel, old sweaters look adorable over your vases and flower pots.

 

8. Pet Bed

This sweater pet bed is a bit of a longer project as it requires felting and a lot more sewing than the other projects mentioned, but the end result is so worth it! You’ll have a cozy, cute little bed to keep your best friend warm all winter.

 

9. Hot Water Bottle Cover

It might seem a little 1800’s, but hot water bottles are really great in the winter. To avoid direct contact, this sweater cover is the perfect comfortable solution.

 

10. Laptop Cover

To keep your laptop from scratching in your messenger bag (and to keep it cozy, too!) this lightweight laptop cover is perfect and looks great.

 

11. Wine Cozie

This knit wine cozie the perfect gift for every single one of my girlfriends.

 

12. Area Rug

If the sweater in question matches your home decor, why not make it part of you home decor as a lovely (and free) new area rug.

 

13. Sweater Gift Wrap

This gift wrap accent is the perfect winter touch for your holiday gifts!

 

14. Braided Sweater Headband

No sewing required, this is a cozy winter spin on your regular headband.

 

15. Sweater Chair Cushion Covers

This project is surprisingly easy and only requires some tacks or a staple gun! It’s a quick and easy way to revitalize your chair cushions and your apartment.

 

16. Sweater Slippers

I need these sweater slippers immediately! Depending on your sweater stock, you can make them in whatever fun color you want.

 

17. Sweater Insoles

For constant coziness, cut out some wool insoles to match your favorite shoes.

 

18. Pillow Covers

Upgrade your pillows for winter with these toasty sweater pillow covers.

A note for these projects: for bulkier knits, it’s important to cut along the seam whenever you can to avoid unraveling. Here are some excellent sewing tips to keep in mind for projects like these.

If none of these crafts really catch your eye, still don’t throw your sweaters away! Organizations like Goodwill will collect your old sweaters and give them to people in need all over the world.

What did you think of these sweater crafts? Share your thoughts and your craft ideas in the comment section below.