DIY: How to Transform a Sweater into Trendy Sweatpants Yourself

Introducing Sweatpants made from sweaters—a perfect way to keep your legs just as cozy as your upper body.

Usually, our legs bear the brunt of cold weather. We're here to fix that by showing you how to creatively repurpose a warm wool sweater into chic and daring pants.

Brighten up the dull autumn and grey winter days with a splash of color and style!

Choosing the Right Sweater

Don’t invest too much money or time into your first pair of sweater sweatpants. Since the process involves cutting and sewing, you might need a few tries to master the technique. Pick a sweater that you’re not too emotionally attached to.

It's best to select sweaters made from natural fibers like wool or angora, which are easier to hand-sew. Avoid thin acrylic knits as they tend to unravel when cut. Experiment with different types to find what works best for you.

Sweaters with dropped shoulder sleeves are ideal candidates. You'll wear the sweater upside down: your legs go through the armholes, and the waist aligns where the torso usually is. Armholes might be a bit snug depending on your size, and the waist often needs tailoring. Instead of just adding an elastic band, consider a neater, more stylish alteration.

Materials Needed:

• One stylish sweater;
• One tapestry needle;
• About 10 mini pins;
• Thread or embroidery floss (advanced crafters can use a serger or sewing machine for professional seams).

Step 1

Simple—remove your pants.

Step 2

Put on the sweater by sliding your legs through the sleeves. If it fits, you’re ready to proceed.

Step 3

Cut off the neckline from the collar edge down to the armhole level.

Note: The back should be shorter than the front (see photo). Make vertical cuts about 8 inches from the collar edges in front and about 6 inches in the back, then connect them with horizontal cuts.

Step 4

Sew the crotch seam of the pants.

Join the two shoulder seams together and pin them. Stitch about 4 inches total—2 inches on each side of the seam plus seam allowances.

Step 5

Sew the front section.

Make sure the sweater is laid out correctly: the back is where the fabric was cut less (see Step 3).

Yellow line = Front fold
Blue line = Existing armhole seams
Pink arrows = Direction to fold the fabric (the top fold overlaps the sleeves at a 90° angle).

No need to trim excess fabric; fold it to fit your shape, adjusting the pants' height to your liking. This step allows you to customize the fit of the crotch area.

Pin one end of the fold near the center gusset and secure the sides. The upper fold overlaps the pant legs at about a 90° angle.

Then sew the fold's edge to the pant legs. The detailed photos clarify this process.

Step 6

Sew the back section.

Repeat the folding and sewing process on the back. Lowering the fold creates an illusion of shorts or a skirt.

Step 7

Reinforce seams and trim excess fabric.

Inspect all seams and secure them manually or with a sewing machine. Using a serger or sewing machine for a second pass will ensure durability, making your sweater sweatpants last for years.

Carefully trim any extra fabric inside the pants without disturbing the seams.

Step 8

Strike a pose.

Wear your sweater sweatpants with a wide belt or add an elastic band or drawstring at the waist.

Pose, dance, and have fun with your friends!

Why sweater sweatpants are awesome:

• They keep you warm during chilly and freezing days;
• Handmade items feel cozier and boost your confidence;
• You’ll own a unique, fashionable, and eye-catching pair of pants;
• It's a great excuse to get creative and have fun with friends.

Share your creations on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #swants, or post your photos in the Westknits Facebook group.

Being different is incredibly cool!

By the way, you can craft many other useful and fun items from old sweaters—check out the top 10 creative projects from worn-out sweaters.

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