How to Make a Cold Shoulder Sweater That Zips Up

4 Materials
$10
1 Hour
Easy

Today, I’m going to show you guys how to make a cold shoulder sweater that zips up! It’s one of my favorite things I’ve ever made and it’s super simple.


I originally bought a cold shoulder sweater to show off my shoulder tattoos, but I found my shoulders started to get too cold.


So, I came up with this DIY cold shoulder top so I could transform the sweater into something more suited to my needs while remaining functional. Let’s get started!

Tools and materials:

  • Cold shoulder sweater
  • Contrasting zipper
  • Scissors
  • Sewing machine
Sewing up the cold shoulder with a blanket stitch

1. Stitch

Stitch up the open shoulders with a blanket stitch.

DIY cold shoulder sweater tutorial

2. Decide which shoulder you want the zipper on

I always wear my bags on my left shoulder, so I’m going to put the zipper on my right shoulder so the bag and purse straps don’t interfere and pull on the zipper.

Placing the zipper on the shoulder

3. Place the zipper

Fold the zipper in half and place each side on either side of the sweater in the position you want the zipper to open and the shoulder to fall open. Pin in place.

Sewing the zipper onto the sweater

4. Sew the zipper

Stitch the zipper on with a straight stitch.

Adding a zig-zag stitch to the zipper

Because we’re going to be cutting through the knit behind the zipper, sewing a zig-zag stitch will help prevent any fraying once the knit is cut open.

Cutting out the knit behind the zipper

5. Cut out the knit

Carefully cut through the knit behind the zipper and trim the knit as close to the zipper seams as possible to avoid any catching of the zipper when opening and closing.

Adding a split stitch to the zipper edges

6. Split stitch

For maximum security, do a split stitch over the edges of the zipper. 

How to make a cold shoulder sweater that zips up


This DIY cold shoulder sweater with a zipper is so cool! With this cold shoulder sleeve tutorial, you get to make the choice of whether or not you want your shoulder toasty or cold!


The zipper in a contrasting color really brings out the key feature of the design and looks incredibly unique. If you like this tutorial, let me know down below and check out all of my fab tutorials right here!

Suggested materials:
  • Cold shoulder sweater
  • Contrasting zipper
  • Scissors
See all materials

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