Recycled Sweater Sleeve Projects

The Inspiration from Country Living:







After looking online today and finding a project worthy of getting sweater scraps all over the place, I opened up my box o'sweater sleeves and picked out a few to play with then headed to the thrift store to drop off a couple of bags of clothes and shoes, and while I was there picked up a few glass cylinders for 75 cents each, and 2 lamps for about $2.50 each.

When I came home, I got to sweater sleeving. First up was the sweater sleeve vase project that I had blogged about earlier. This seemed like it was going to be easy enough, especially after reading a few how-to's on other folks blogs. But I tell you what, it isn't as easy as it seems. I did my own adjustments to find a way to ensure that the vases sit flat. I don't know how the other crafters did it, but any attempt to fold fabric and glue it to the bottom was resulting in a cooked vase. I'll write more details instructions on my how-to later.

After looking for other project ideas, I found another source of recycled sweater inspiration from Country Living. Sadly, there is plenty of HORRENDOUS ideas on what to do with old sweaters, but I actually liked these ideas!

Inspired by the bowls, and wanting to find a way to make knitted fabric bowls or felted bowls without actually having to knit (because that takes WAY TOO LONG) I settled on my second project. While at the thrift store I looked at baskets and tried to find some suitable to make a liner for. That's when I found a bread basket, and wanted to make a cover that doubles as a liner.

My original intention was for the knitted case to actually fit OVER the basket with the drawstring closure. With the knitted case over the basket, this makes the perfect home and soft cradle for fruits or bread to rest. However, after laying the knitted case inside the basket to dry, I realized this would also serve as a great way to keep bread warm on the table, or protected in transit to a dinner party, picnic or whatever. Again, I'll post my how-to later, along with getting much better photos. Ugh ... my camera skills with my 6 year-old digital is severely lacking. Oh well, you KINDA get the picture!



Then last but not least is a photo of what will be my next project. I'm going to redo the lamp shade using sweater sleeves for a one of a kind bedside lamp. Can't wait!
Oh I'm having so much fun ... and SO happy to have inspiration for all my sweater sleeves! Well ... for making a dent in the stash at least!