How to Sew Green Recycled Sweater Slippers
Old sweaters that are faded, have a couple of moth holes or no longer fit can easily be recycled into a comfy pair of slippers. The best sweaters to use are wool, but really any sweater can be turned to this purpose. The best part is that these sweater slippers require only beginner sewing skills, so almost anyone can make them.
Instructions
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1
Wash and dry the sweater to make the knitting as tight as possible.
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2
Turn the sweater inside out and lay it out flat. Find a shoe or slipper in the same size as the person who will be wearing the slippers and place it on top of the sweater. Trace around the shoe.
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3
Cut out the foot shape, making sure to cut through both layers of the sweater. These two pieces will form the soles of your slippers.
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4
Draw two sock shapes with flat bottoms on the remaining fabric of the sweater. You can make the ankles of the socks as high or low as you like. Again, cut through both layers to get four sock shapes.
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5
Sew the tops of two of the sock shapes together with the "right" sides out, then sew the heels of the sock shapes together. You can use an overcast, zigzag or blanket stitch to make the edge decorative.
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Sew the top of the slipper to the bottom of the slipper, again sewing on the outside edge. If desired, add embellishments or decorative stitching around the mouth of the slipper.
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Tips & Warnings
These slippers can be hazardous on wood, tile or linoleum floors. Add a non-skid bottom for children, elderly persons and anyone prone to falls.
References
- "Sweater Surgery (pgs. 40 & 47)"; Stefanie Gerard; 2008
- Martha Stewart Living Online: Felt Slippers
