Recycled Sweater Scarf

Create a knit-style scarf without actually knitting by cleverly repurposing sweaters.

Gray and Purple Infinity Scarf

Recycled Sweater Scarf

Favorite sweaters past their prime are given new purpose as a cozy, oversized scarf. The ends can be stitched together to create a hip, continuous design or left loose for a traditional-style wrap. Start whipping up cozy handmade gifts with our step-by-step instructions.

By: Michele Beschen

Materials Needed:

  • (2) 100% acrylic, or acrylic blend, sweaters (Avoid 100% cotton sweaters because they tend to unravel.)
  • rotary cutting blade
  • cutting mat
  • scissors
  • thread and needle or sewing machine

Create Sweater Panels

Cut off the bodies of both sweaters just below the arms. Ensure that both cut panels have the same dimensions by trimming off any excess. Tip: The size of sweaters used will determine the size and length of finished scarf. The larger the sweaters; the larger the finished scarf.

Cut Sweater

Cutting Sweater Panels For Scarf

Cut off the bodies of both sweaters just below the arms. Ensure that both cut panels have the same dimensions by trimming off any excess. Tip: The size of sweaters used will determine the size and length of finished scarf. The larger the sweaters; the larger the finished scarf.

Hem Edges

Finish cut edges with a decorative hand stitch or with a sewing machine.

Whipstitch Ends of Knit Scarf

Hemming Edges of Sweater Scarf

Finish the cut edges with a decorative hand stitch or with a sewing machine.

Cut Pieces

Cut each sweater body into two equal pieces to create four panels, again trimming pieces till all four sections are the same size.

Use Scissors to Cut Sweater Into Panels

Cutting Sweater Panels in Half

Cut each sweater body into two equal pieces to create four panels, again trimming pieces till all four sections are the same size.

Stitch Together

Sew all four alternating panels together to create a loop. If desired, leave ends loose for a traditional scarf.

Black and Purple Sweater Pieces

Sewing Scarf Panels Together

Sew all four alternating panels together to create a loop. If desired, leave ends loose for a traditional scarf.

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