Guide on Transforming a Pullover into a Cardigan Sweater Jacket
In this quick and easy DIY project, learn how to turn a pullover sweater into a cardigan using fabric strips, buttons, and an elastic hairband.
- Preparing the Sweater Start by cutting a straight line up the center front of the sweater using sharp scissors. This will create an opening, transforming it into a cardigan base.
- Attaching Fabric Strips Cut two fabric strips, each 2 inches wide and 2 inches longer than the front of the sweater. Fold and press each end of the fabric strips. Then, fold the strips under 1/4 inch on the long side and press again. Sew or glue these strips onto the inside of the sweater front edges to stabilize the raw edges and give a neat finish.
- Adding Buttons and Buttonholes Sew buttons onto one fabric strip side, evenly spaced along the opening. On the other strip side, create buttonholes or sew elastic loops if buttonholes are difficult to make on the knitted material. The buttons will allow closure of the new cardigan front.
- Using an Elastic Hairband For a flexible and stylish closure, attach an elastic hairband loop on one side and a button on the other. The elastic band can be stretched to hook over the buttons, offering a no-sew alternative to traditional buttonholes.
This hack is a simple and fun way to repurpose sweaters into cardigans with minimal sewing skills required, perfect for refreshing your fall wardrobe. No complex sewing machines are needed—just scissors, needle and thread (or fabric glue), buttons, fabric strips for edge finishing, and an elastic hairband for flexible closure. You can complete this project in less than an hour.
References: - Transforming shirts and sweaters via cutting and adding fabric strips and buttons on TikTok tutorials, August 2025.
- Style the New Cardigan Complete your new cardigan with fashion-and-beauty accessories such as matching scarves, jewelry, and hats to suit your lifestyle.
- Decorate Your Home Consider adding the cardigan to your home-and-garden décor by using it as a pot holder or a hanging plant holder to complement your overall interior design.
