How to Make No-Knit Christmas Sweater Stockings
Don't toss that old sweater. Instead, repurpose it as custom stockings for the entire family. This project requires no sewing machine or knitting needles and can easily be completed in an afternoon.
Materials Needed:
- 1 sweater per stocking
- fuzzy yarn
- upholstery needle
- sharp scissors
Cut Stocking
Print stocking templates onto two pieces of 8-1/2" x 11" card stock and cut them out. Pin template to sweater (Image 1). Using sharp scissors, cut through both the front and back of sweater together (Image 2). Remove pins and repeat with other sweaters.
Embellish Stocking
Thread yarn through upholstery needle and knot at end. Choose which piece will be the stocking front and insert needle into the back (Image 1). Pull through until yarn stops where knotted (Image 2). Stitch straight lines toward a center point to make a simple snowflake shape (Image 3). Knot in the back and trim thread when pattern is complete (Image 4). Repeat to make multiple snowflakes on one stocking. Tip: Sizes can vary, but keep shapes simple.
Make Monogram Applique
To make a template, print a large letter in a simple font onto card stock. Cut out the letter and pin to sweater to use as a guide. Cut around paper letter to create sweater initial (Image 1). Pin the letter in position on the front of stocking. Use yarn and upholstery needle to stitch letter into place (Image 2).
Assemble Stocking
Pin two pieces of stocking together, right sides out. Thread yarn through upholstery needle and knot at end. Use a whip stitch to secure front and back half of stocking together. Leave top of the stocking open.
Add Cuff
To create a cuff, cut a 3" x 18" panel from the bottom of the sweater. Tip: The bottom works best for this because one edge is already finished. Line up the raw edge of cuff with top of stocking. Stitch together so seam is showing on outside of the stocking (Image 1). This will be hidden once the cuff is folded over. Continue stitching around the top of stocking until ends meet on "heel" side of stocking. Trim excess cuff, if necessary. Stitch ends together with seam pointing out; this will also be hidden once cuffed. Fold over and sew yarn loop where cuff and stocking meet on heel side (Image 2). Hang on a mantel, ready for Christmas morning. Tip: No mantel? Hang stockings from lengths of ribbon over a mirror.