DIY No-Sew Upcycled Sweater Refashion

Before:

This sweater was a brand new, fuzzy find when I bought it for $2.49 during a thrift store trip here. The size and fit were great and I loved the cozy texture. But, the neckline was boring and the sweater as a whole lacked character. In about 20 minutes, it got a total transformation and now I’m excited to wear it all the time.

The Process:

First, cut the neckline from the top and throw it away. You won’t be needing that anymore.

Now that the basic shape of your upcycled sweater is done, it’s time to make some templates for your stencil. I used this incredible free feather template here and easily printed it out on cardstock paper. Cut out the shapes you like using an X-acto knife. I’ve used this one from Amazon

for years and love it.

Once your template and stencil is done, it’s time to start painting! All you need for this step is some black Soft Fabric Paint, a basic Round Paint Sponge

, an extra sheet of cardstock, and a paper plate. Once you have decided where you’d like to place your stencil, slide the extra sheet of cardstock inside the sweater to prevent any bleed-through. Next, pour some paint onto your paper plate and get the cardstock stencil ready. Firmly press the cardstock onto your sweater and apply the paint using a careful up and down motion with your paintbrush- never gliding the brush along the fabric. This prevents bleeding and gives your stencil the most crisp edges possible.

When you are done, move on to the next stencil. Don’t be afraid to cut your cardstock paper up to get your stencils closer together. I liked adding feathers to both sleeves as well as in an asymmetrical pattern across the front of my sweater. Let dry.

Ta da! An easy, no-sew upcycled sweater that’s perfectly slouchy and crazy-cozy. I loved these stencils by WeddingChicks.com but you can really use any free printable (or draw your own) to make the look even more unique. I like styling this sweater with distressed jeans and a lace bralette.

Thank you so much for reading this little sweater refashion post. As always, if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below! I’d love to hear how you customize it, what tricks and ideas you know, or any questions in general you have.