How to Give New Life to Old Cardigans

Sweater weather is still here. If last year's frocks are starting to feel a little frumpy, no need to go out and buy a new wardrobe when you can easily embellish the items you already have. With little to no-sewing involved, you can craft yourself some new cardigans with these ideas.

These embellishment ideas work for kids and adults alike.  Realizing you’ve worn the elbow out of your favorite sweater? Cover the hole with an appliqué. Lost a button along the way? Make some new ones in any fabric you like. Also, if that pesky stain is just not coming out you can always paint over it.

Check out this episode of DIY This With Jennifer Perkins for even more examples of sweater embellishments and step-by-step guides to using tools like button covers.

Vintage beaded sweaters are a rare and elusive thing to find when hunting for antiques. If you are lucky enough to lay your hands on one there is a good chance it will cost a pretty penny. With the help of fabric paint, you can make your own version. Use round sponge brushes to make polka dots and a slick fine-tipped fabric paint to create the effect of raised beads. This option also lets you choose any color combination you want.

Once you have the tool from the craft store to make covered buttons, no boring button will be safe! They come in different sizes and the possibilities for fabric coverings are endless. A bit of hand sewing is involved in replacing the buttons, but in under an hour, you can give your favorite sweater and entirely new look.

Why not paint on some elbow patches instead of sewing them. Mark elbows on sweaters while wearing.  Remove sweater and stretch elbows taunt over a cup or piece of cardboard. Draw a heart and fill it in using soft fabric paint. Add faux stitches using a fabric or permanent marker.

Looking for more ideas to spice up your wardrobe?  Check out our posts on DIY Pencil Shoes, Fruity Fun Tie-Dye and Blinged Out Sun Hats.