How to Make No-Knit Christmas Sweater Stockings

Don't toss that old sweater. Instead, repurpose it as custom stockings for the entire family. This project requires no sewing machine or knitting needles and can easily be completed in an afternoon.

Twin Sweater Stockings With Ornate Mirror

Stockings Made From Repurposed Sweaters

These stylish stockings require little sewing and put your old sweaters to great use. The custom look will impress guests, and can be done in just one afternoon. Design by Marian Parsons of Mustard Seed Interiors

Materials Needed:

  • 1 sweater per stocking
  • fuzzy yarn
  • upholstery needle
  • sharp scissors

Cut Stocking

Print stocking templates onto two pieces of 8-1/2" x 11" card stock and cut them out. Pin template to sweater (Image 1). Using sharp scissors, cut through both the front and back of sweater together (Image 2). Remove pins and repeat with other sweaters.

Embellish Stocking

Thread yarn through upholstery needle and knot at end. Choose which piece will be the stocking front and insert needle into the back (Image 1). Pull through until yarn stops where knotted (Image 2). Stitch straight lines toward a center point to make a simple snowflake shape (Image 3). Knot in the back and trim thread when pattern is complete (Image 4). Repeat to make multiple snowflakes on one stocking. Tip: Sizes can vary, but keep shapes simple.

Make Monogram Applique

To make a template, print a large letter in a simple font onto card stock. Cut out the letter and pin to sweater to use as a guide. Cut around paper letter to create sweater initial (Image 1). Pin the letter in position on the front of stocking. Use yarn and upholstery needle to stitch letter into place (Image 2).

Assemble Stocking

Pin two pieces of stocking together, right sides out. Thread yarn through upholstery needle and knot at end. Use a whip stitch to secure front and back half of stocking together. Leave top of the stocking open.

Careful Threading

DIY No-Knit Christmas Sweater Stockings

Pin two pieces of stocking together, right sides out. Thread yarn through upholstery needle and knot at end. Use a whip stitch to secure front and back half of stocking together. Leave top of the stocking open.

Add Cuff

To create a cuff, cut a 3" x 18" panel from the bottom of the sweater. Tip: The bottom works best for this because one edge is already finished. Line up the raw edge of cuff with top of stocking. Stitch together so seam is showing on outside of the stocking (Image 1). This will be hidden once the cuff is folded over. Continue stitching around the top of stocking until ends meet on "heel" side of stocking. Trim excess cuff, if necessary. Stitch ends together with seam pointing out; this will also be hidden once cuffed. Fold over and sew yarn loop where cuff and stocking meet on heel side (Image 2). Hang on a mantel, ready for Christmas morning. Tip: No mantel? Hang stockings from lengths of ribbon over a mirror.

Next Up

How to Make a Christmas Cat Spinner Wand

In all of the gifting during the holidays, don't forget about your furry friends. This holly-themed cat toy is easy to make and will encourage hours of playful interaction.

How to Make a Christmas Catnip Toy

Don't forget your furry best friend when making handmade gifts for the holidays. With just basic sewing skills, you can whip up a catnip-filled stocking-shaped toy as a surprise for your favorite kitty.

Two Ways to Wrap Gorgeous Gifts With Plain Brown Paper

Plain brown craft paper doesn't have to be boring. Check out these two fresh and inexpensive ideas for wrapping pretty holiday presents.

Recycled Sweater Scarf

Create a knit-style scarf without actually knitting by cleverly repurposing sweaters.

Coffee Sack Gift Tote

Repurpose burlap coffee bags to create rustic gift totes that can be used again and again.

How-to: Vintage Stamp Coasters

The DIY experts at HGTV Magazine recreated this flea market find. Here’s how you can, too.

Homemade S'mores Kit

Create fun s'mores kits with made-from-scratch ingredients as a tasty handmade gift for friends and family.

How to Make a Monogrammed Tray

Instead of the customary bottle of wine, give your favorite party host or hostess a monogrammed serving tray that can be used throughout the year.

Kids' Craft: Ruffled Rose Headband

With just a little help from a crafty adult, kids can turn a plain elastic headband into a sweet feminine accessory, perfect for girls big or small.

Easily Cross Stitch a Monogrammed Tea Towel

Monogrammed items are always in style — so is cross-stitch; this easy needle art has made a major comback thanks the popularity of antique and vintage items. While fabric specifically made for cross-stitch makes the process easier, the weave of linen lends itself to cross-stitching, opening up a world of possible pieces that can be customized as beautiful handmade gifts. 

More from:

Handmade Holidays

What's New in Handmade

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.