How to DIY a Color Block Turtleneck Sweater

Tools and materials:

• Two contrasting sweaters
• Fabric chalk or marker
• Measuring tape
• Pins
• Scissors
• Sewing machine
• Serger (optional)

I used a fairly slim fitting turtleneck sweater on top and a chunkier straight sweater below it.

1. Cut out the upper sweater

Try on the upper sweater and draw on it the approximate line you want the color blocking to follow.

Turn the sweater inside out and lay it out flat.

Measure 11.5 inches from the neckline down the shoulder, 10 inches from the neckline across the top of each sleeve and 8 inches from the neckline at the center front. 

Use your own measurements if you prefer.

Join the marks with a curved line to get the shape you want. I used a design I found on Pinterest for my inspo.

Cut along the line.

2. Cut out the lower sweater

Lay the second sweater out flat with the wrong side facing.

Place the upper sweater over it, checking that the distance between the armhole and the top sweater is the same on both sides.

Cut out the second sweater, using the lower edge of the first as a template.

Finish the cut edges of both sweaters with an overlock stitch or use a serger if you have one.

3. Join the sweaters

Pin the edges of the sweaters together, with the right sides facing.

Make sure you align the seams where appropriate, especially the sleeve seams.

Turn the sweater right side out and check that you like the shape. 

I decided the front of mine was too curved and I prefer a straight line. 

I repinned it and cut off the excess fabric.

Sew the two sweaters together with a fairly long straight stitch.

DIY color block turtleneck sweater 

I’m really thrilled with how this sweater turned out! It’s really exactly what I had envisaged and it took less than a couple of hours to do. 

You could have a lot of fun with this, thrifting or digging out sweaters you don’t wear very often and combining them into something new.

I hope you like my sweater upcycling ideas. I’d love to know what you think - would you please leave me a comment below and tell me?