Turn a sweater into a cute tote bag

Country Living



If, like most of us, you have a sweater lying around that you're not quite ready to get rid of, consider making it into something you can really use. Sweater totes make a great gift or donation to a community fund-raiser. Use the carryalls for light shopping, as a second handbag, or to stash a knitting project.

What you'll need
- 100 percent wool sweater (L and XL are good for totes)
- Washer and dryer
- Laundry detergent
- Large needle
- Strong thread (carpet, quilting, or embroidery)
- Scissors
- Additional sweater for pockets (optional)



Wash the sweater
To felt the sweater, run it through a hot-water wash with laundry detergent. Dry it on regular heat in the dryer. Repeat if necessary.

Cut
Cut off the sleeves and neckline of the sweater. Refold so the seams of the sweater and the strap openings face front.

Sew
Turn the sweater inside out and sew across the bottom, 1/2" in from the edge. Fold straps, slightly overlapping, in thirds and sew to secure. Stitch around the bag's opening to keep the tote's top from stretching.



Make the Pocket
Pockets can be any shape you like, but these mitten-shaped ones are a charming nod to the tote's knitted origin.

TIPS:
Wool naturally repels dirt and water, making sweater totes almost maintenance-free. Felting can be unpredictable, so in case of a spill or a stain - or if the tote has stretched from carrying too many heavy loads - wash the bag by hand and place it on a towel to dry.

For a sturdier bag, cut straps from the sweater's arms to the length you desire and twice as wide. Fold the straps in thirds lengthwise, and stitch to secure. Sew the straps onto the bag using several lines of stitching.

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