DIY: How To Make A Cardigan Out Of A Towel

Making a cardigan out of a towel is a creative and fun DIY project! We were inspired to create this project after seeing this gorgeous but, unfortunately, sold-out Towel Jacket by Guelph, Ontario-based small-batch, slow-fashion brand The Muse And I, which gives old textiles a new life. “Our passion is to repurpose discarded textiles into one of a kind, wearable art. We are inspired by the vintage and recycled textiles that already exist,” according to the brand’s website. While we wait for The Muse And I to make more Towel Jackets, here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can transform a towel into a cozy cardigan.

Materials Needed:

• A large towel (preferably a beach towel or bath sheet)
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or needle and thread
• Pins
• Measuring tape
• Chalk or fabric marker
• Buttons or a belt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Choose the Towel:
   • Select a large, soft towel that you’d like to transform. The size of the towel will determine the length and fit of your cardigan.
2. Measure and Mark:
   • Lay the towel flat on a large surface.
   • Use the measuring tape to find the center of the towel. This will be the back of your cardigan.
   • Mark the center line with chalk or a fabric marker.
   • Decide on the width of the front opening of your cardigan. Measure equal distances from the center line on both sides and mark them.
3. Cut the Front Opening:
   • Cut along the marks from the bottom of the towel to the top, creating an opening in the middle of the towel. This will form the front panels of your cardigan.
4. Create the Armholes:
   • To create armholes, decide where you want the sleeves to be. Measure and mark the desired armhole location on each side of the towel.
   • Cut out semi-circular shapes for the armholes. Make sure they are large enough for your arms to fit through comfortably.
5. Shape the Shoulders:
   • To give your cardigan a better fit, you might want to shape the shoulders. Cut small curves on the top edges of the front panels to match the back panel’s shoulder area.
6. Sew the Side Seams:
   • Fold the towel inside out so that the good sides are facing each other.
   • Pin the sides together, leaving the armhole area open.
   • Sew along the pinned edges using a sewing machine or by hand with a needle and thread. Make sure to use a stitch that will hold well, considering the towel’s fabric thickness.
7. Finishing Touches:
   • Hem the raw edges of the armholes, front opening, and bottom hem for a neat finish. You can fold the edges over twice and sew them to prevent fraying.
   • If you want, you can add buttons to the front panels or a belt to wrap around your cardigan for closure.
8. Optional: Add Pockets:
   • If you have extra towel fabric, you can cut out rectangles for pockets.
   • Sew the pockets onto the front of the cardigan where desired.

Tips:

• Fabric Glue: If you prefer a no-sew option, fabric glue can be used instead of sewing, though it may not be as durable.
• Customization: Feel free to add decorative elements like lace, embroidery, or patches to personalize your cardigan.

Final Note:

Transforming a towel into a cardigan is an excellent way to upcycle and create a unique piece of clothing. Enjoy your new cozy and stylish cardigan!

This simple guide should help you create a basic cardigan from a towel. Adjust measurements and details based on your preferences and towel size. Have fun crafting!