SweaterDress to TwinSet!

[@bethperkins8228]

You are absolutely fearless when making those cuts thru the sweater! I would be TERRIFIED!!!!! Great job.

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, that's awesome, Beth, but there's not much to fear when you're cutting up something that you wouldn't wear as is. You've got nothing to lose!

[@Mrs.Patriot]

There is a technique called "steeking" that involves stitching parallel lines wherever you want to cut, and then you cut between them. It's great for turning a pullover into a cardigan, and useful also when altering garments made of more slinky fibers so they don't ravel with handling.

[@bethperkins8228]

@@Mrs.Patriot Thanks so much for this info. Very handy to have.

[@Mrs.Patriot]

@@bethperkins8228 You're welcome! Happy needleworking.

[@acsbird]

I love your videos. I have watched so many other people who thrift and change stuff, but so many just sort of throw the fabric around, are not organized, and it’s very hard to follow what they’re doing. Thank you for your videography, clear vocals, low or no background music and your editing - speeding things up and showing what you’re doing. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

[@bc927]

You are so fun to watch. Plus I always learn something new. I think of all the sweaters I've donated, that I could have repurposed. Love your shows!

[@CatherineSews]

Awww, thanks, BC!

[@saundraweed9738]

Very creative. Thanks for sharing your great ideas and showing how one idea can evolve into something new.

[@TheJaniebabe]

nice wrap over Catherine and the cammi looks lovely with your other cardies.

[@bleudragon9]

This sweater dress upcycled to camisole & cardigan project is so inspiring. It's giving me so many ideas! Love that blue color! You look great. Thanks for showing your disappointment with the 1st result. That helps me not give up when my first attempts are crappy. Thank you!

[@CatherineSews]

Great to hear, Charlie!

[@helenwood3199]

The wrap style is much better on you. Cute.

[@judymeow8646]

Wow, that really turned out beautifully 💙 The draped wrap looks so luxurious with this fabric and the colour suits so well!!!

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks, Judy! Lovely to hear!

[@macoeur1122]

Love the cami...I might steal that idea! I just finished my very first altered sweater on Saturday and I'm so excited! I found a sweater at Goodwill that I absolutey LOVE the shape and length of...It couldn't possibly fit any better...so I used it as a pattern to recreate the same length and shape out of a slightly larger/boxier sweater and it came out great! I also have about four upcycling projects right here ready to start as soon as I can find a minute. I'm thinking that going this route is actually going to save me both time AND money because I can spend less time looking for things that fit me well (so time consuming and annoying) and I can also just look on the sale rack for things that are "close enough", style-wise in colors & fabrics I like and not even bother wasting time trying them on, knowing I can totally make them fit me perfectly! Thanks for all of the inspiration and great ideas :)))

[@playhooky]

I'd love to see pics or videos of your projects! Are you on IG? I need to do the same thing - buy things to make my own alterations &/or upcycle because nothing off the rack ever fits me right!

[@macoeur1122]

@@playhooky I'm not on IG...and I did find myself wishing there was a way to upload a before and after photo, but ultimately I don't think it would really add anything of value for you beyond what Catherine has shared in her videos. Because we're all different "shapes", our alterations are going to be unique to us. In this case, all I did was take a large, somewhat boxy sweater (but very soft and cozy...and in a great color!) and took it in all the way up the sleeves and down the sides in the right proportions to fit my own shape (using a sweater that fits me perfectly as my pattern) I tend to like tops that fit my form around shoulders and down to just above my waist and then get very slightly "roomier" from waist to hips....and "usually" I like tops that are long enough to cover "at least" half of my "backside" and it takes a lot of time and often just "luck" to find this perfect fit right off the rack. I tend to like the more "junior" styles...but find that junior styles often don't have the length I'm looking for...hence my excitement at having found a way to get great "custom" clothes without having to start from scratch!

[@bottle-capjack1778]

Yet another conversion success! Love watching your creative mind at work!

[@silk2949]

Looks great! Making it a wrap around is genius. Good for you!

[@emilysmith2784]

Wow that trick you did with the straps was genius!!

[@olivemd]

Love it. Also, I’m going to use your chain of thread trick.

[@CHrisPetE056]

😮I am so shocked to see you cut into a sweater like that. I think my mindset is that it’s not like fabric and even just a whole or an unraveling area renders the item ruined. But now I see that this is not the case at all 😂😂😂🎉🎉🎉 thank you.

[@luvfunstuff2]

I LOVE how you tweaked it at the end, making it more of a buttoned wrap around. Perfecto! Mwah! 😘

[@pattyarpaia4887]

I’ve seven all my life… Now that I’m in my late 60’s. I just wanted to say it is a joy to watch your video’s as I never had anything new to wear unless I sewed it. Keep inspiring others to change it up when you don’t like something. I try to tell others that when you see things it fits you perfectly. ..and the fabric is perfect .. and you can’t get that in the ready to wear.

[@CatherineSews]

Right!? I totally agree. Sewing makes your wardrobe unique!

[@debbiewhite3270]

Totally brilliant. U look great w it. I agree w a previous comment: I would be terrified to cut it lol

[@ArlenePMCM]

Wow, lot's of possibilities with that knit dress! You are fearless with those scissors, LOL. I, like a lot of other commenters, thought a sweater knit couldn't be simply cut like that. Very cool.

[@maryswartzel2773]

I always learn so much from your videos. I admire your fearlessness as you boldly cut into your pieces. And your end results are always amazing. Thank you so much ♥️

[@marthamurray9855]

You are so fearless and talented. I love how you share your thought process as you create. I always learn new tricks watching your videos.

[@denisebarker9288]

I want to go to the thrift store and buy something I can create.❤️

[@nitawilkinson]

One of my local thrift shops had $1 a bag sale. I came home with four bags ! Including a long sweater and a sweater dress. I can't wait to get started. Thank you, this is the perfect idea ¥

[@maryalgar8779]

It's fascinating watching you "design on the fly". And you were so right about your second version looking so much better. That was a very neat trick with the serger thread and turning the narrow fabric for your loops. I don't own a serger but definitely see how useful one would be. It would be interesting to see what your school students are working on these days.

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks, Mary! I'm trying to get better on Instagram to show what my students are doing. I'll try to post there more often.

[@TaniShamma]

I find you so inspiring and so calming. I loved that it was ok for us to see you in your bra straps because we’re friends! Indeed, it feels that way! You explain and show things so clearly and I love your feminine and comfortable style. Thank you so much for all your hard work, I’m gearing up to try a few restyle/upcycles myself because you make me feel like I’ll be successful! 🤗

[@juliescheidler7763]

This is cute, I'm envious of your creativity & talent!

[@CatherineSews]

You can do it too!

[@nancyralls3396]

I have been sewing for over 65 years and fabrics pretty much fell into only a few categories, cotton, linen, silk, wool, and the newer one - polyester. Today there are so many choices that it has been confusing. Thank you, thank you, thank you for helping to clarify all the terminology with your clear and concise descriptions. 😄🥰

[@rowinamediastini7839]

Gorgeous with the great idea 👍👍👍 !! Thanks for sharing this, Catherine, I learned much from you, God bless you always and enjoy wearing the new twinn set, have a nice day 😉❣

[@Jannie227]

Hi Catherine, I love watching you sew. When I was young I used to sew all the time.

[@marygersetich8709]

I wouldn't have thought of using elastic to finish the edges. Thanks for the idea! BTW, you look really nice in blue!

[@leannsews]

Beautiful ❤ and versatile!

[@susanbaker902]

Your talent is amazing.

[@deborahjones-gd2je]

Thank you for responding to my comment yesterday. I have been binge watching your videos and now I am resisting the urge to rush to the nearest charity shop (I'm in UK) and buy loads of knitwear. So inspirational! And if they go wrong well, they haven't cost you much money and the time spent is a learning experience, so win-win whether they work out or not. On to another video!

[@lauramc1622]

I've been so frustrated lately trying to find appropriate work clothes that are reasonably priced and not boring. I'm going back through my closet and remaking things. This is very much my kind of sewing..use what you have, make it what you want!! Thanks!

[@CatherineSews]

Yes, I totally agree! It's much more satisfying and more sustainable!

[@vikkibendle1749]

I have just found your channel! Loving what you do …..and have learned so much after watching your utubes. I used to quilt for years but in the last 6 months I have started making clothes and up cycling. You are fearless and I love your ideas….I am going to make some v necks for my T shirts next! Thankyou for your inspiration🇦🇺

[@CatherineSews]

So great tonhear, Vicki! I'm glad you found me too!

[@afghanbunny1]

I've just found your channel and have been going through lots of your videos. What a joy! I've been sewing over 50 years, but I still learn new things. I can really use some of your bright ideas! Thank you! ( I really loved the video of your school classroom, as well as the ones where you help your friends to sew). Great job! Keep on posting these lovely, helpful videos!

[@CatherineSews]

Well, that's an absolutely lovely comment! I'm so happy to welcome you aboard!

[@lseh4720]

I don’t even know how to sew and I watch this channel. So much fun.

[@deb.m.7458]

Gorgeous end result from a thrifted sweater! I’ve always passed on the sweater items and thought you couldn’t cut it like fabric. Seeing you remake something lovely is inspiring me to try this. I have nothing to lose, since it will be a refashion. You are a very talented lady.

[@cindycash1772]

Fantastic transformation !!! Love the set but having the cami paired with the other 2 cardigans... bonus... thank you as always for great inspiration (that dark elastic was the perfect hem... sorry you lost it in the end) Great tips for application...

[@janeallen5969]

I enjoyed the journey. It shows that even as experienced as you are, there are those moments where you felt "what was I thinking 😊. I appreciate that you share those moments when you question yourself. Also like that you are willing to choose an unexpected direction that takes you to a perfect place. ❤

[@karenauto]

Catherine, this is off subject but, could you please make a video on how to make a tank top from a T-shirt? How to make the armholes smaller, and if you could use any knit remnants for the neckline of if you have to use ribbing? I love, love, love your videos! I’ve been sewing over 50 years and there is always something new to learn! Thank you!

[@CatherineSews]

That's a great idea for a video! Let me look into it.

[@lynnries7729]

Love a twin set and yours is lovely.

[@QueenAmethyst55]

It looks great Catherine & that colour blue suits you very well 😊

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

Very nice and very brave! I was always told you had to stitch before you cut knitwear. Looks like they lied. I think I will be looking at things a lot differently now! Your twin set looks really lovely.

[@fayehendricksen5689]

You are one very talented lady, love this video, thank you for sharing all your ideas

[@angelabreedlove6420]

Loved the transformation! I have been away from sewing for a while but your amazing videos give me the confidence to jump back in! I just received an Amazon shipment of many of your fav must haves for sewing and the transformation of our 2nd bedroom to a sewing room very similar to yours(as the layouts almost identical) has begun! I cannot wait to have my machines at the ready when ever I have the time to sew, because you are so right, if you need to set up and put away you do not sew as often or with as much joy as you should.

[@theladybaltimore]

I really admire your perseverance. Seeing how you are able to work through a disappointing result is inspiring. I am used to being disappointed and throwing projects away or stashing them in the pile and throwing them away later. I don't really make garments from scratch anymore, but I have several items that are too baggy waiting to be altered.

[@suzannecrelley2369]

Thank you Catherine for all your videos. They are so helpful and inspiring. I am up cycling 2 sweaters already. You are a gem.

[@katherinerichardson1767]

Great move! I love the transformation of the sweater dress.

[@CatherineSews]

Glad you like it! Thank you!

[@tracyoduinn9438]

I think I would have really enjoyed you as my teacher. Nice work

[@sharongallagher3443]

So skilled at seeing the potential of thrift items.

[@leeannqh]

The cowl neck would make a great beanie hat.

[@clothingalterations]

You are amazing. Fully watched 👍🌺🌿🌹

[@CatherineSews]

Thank you so much 🤗 I love what you do too, and I wish you all the best for your channel!

[@dawnhobbs6737]

Great job! Love your different looks. Thanks for your inspiration.

[@melissaegbertson9100]

Awesome job, Catherine! And very inspiring!❤

[@kdcbattlecreek]

Love to see techniques working with knit. I've never done that with my serger.

[@hjccontest]

something I am...or was....afraid to do is knits. But I love how you finish the edge with elastic first, Einstein I tell you!

[@janemaber5420]

I love watching you being definitive, creative and discerning!

[@larryharmon8731]

You are most talented and very beautiful!! I enjoy watching your videos.. Thank you.

[@RebeccaTreeseed]

I love that crossover.

[@janandnaomi2000]

Color works beautifully on you! Great job!

[@tammaramisty]

I just love your videos. I have learned so much from you.

[@AngeVPV]

The cache coeur is so beautiful! I love it!

[@kathyjames9250]

Hmmmm! I think sweater twins are swell! I was toying with the idea of turning some big knit tops into cardigans, so it is very timely that I see it done correctly. Disaster may have been averted. Nice job, such a pretty colour!

[@vivenna]

Absolutely love your result and ideas! The crossover detail looks great and I would have never guessed that it's possible to do that from an originally straight cut garment. Also such a good tip to use the serger thread as a loop pull! I've seen the tip with additional sewn on threads before, but this will be even more secure and much quicker. Now I even wonder whether that technique might be the solution for general belt loops in woven as well... I often dread to make them 😅

[@CatherineSews]

Hi Vivienna! Yes, I love that trick of turning a loop using the serger thread, but I dont use it on belt loops. Check out this video to see a nicer way to sew those: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZnStin-OndWoh6c

[@linkay6]

You're amazing! I like the end result. I love how you problem solve!!

[@mammastreed5070]

I just bought a long knit dress to up cycle. I’m still nervous about making those first cuts but this helps me not to be as terrified! ✂️ ✂️✂️✂️✂️✂️✂️✂️✂️😳

[@NewsfromtheGrove]

I absolutely LOVE this! I might have to thrift myself a sweater dress! And make this. You are so clever! I am so glad I found your channel! What a good idea with the elastic on the cami and cardigan! Thank you Again for a great video / sewing idea.

[@lynnleipold2617]

Interesting alternative way to finish the edges of sweater knits. Thanks

[@francehoude2246]

Love it!!! Thank you CAtherine!

[@sofiaaldunate4365]

Hi Catherine very impresive what you do with the sweaters. You could try using a twin needle for the borders so they are not showing the zigzag stitch. The twin needle shows two lines of straight stitch on one side (the upper one) and a zigzag stitch on the reverse, which is very elastic. I sew elastic fabric that way.

[@sarahferrell5458]

What a neat “journey”!

[@bonntonne5090]

I am going to try this one.

[@gloriamaldonado6485]

Thanks!

[@gloriamaldonado6485]

I love all your creative ideas!

[@CatherineSews]

Thank you so much for the Super Thanks! That is very gratifying!! So glad you like my channel 🥰

[@gisellejones1139]

Great job and always love seeing the process !!

[@Mrs.Patriot]

Really pretty! I agree the shorter length is more flattering.The color is great on you too. I'm just getting back into sewing and picking up so many tips from you. Could I know which cutting mat you use? Would appreciate a recommendation! Thanks so much.

[@CatherineSews]

The brand I use is probably also the easiest to find. It's Olfa.

[@Mrs.Patriot]

@@CatherineSews ❤❤❤❤

[@christinehowell]

It looks great. You are so talented. Not sure I have the confidence and skill to do this but it does show that it's possible to re-purpose knitwear.

[@bonnierobbins4230]

Wow! Wonderful job! You're giving me lots of ideas 💡

[@caibo666]

Back in high school we used narrow sleeves for the bra straps matching the color of the strap tops or dresses we used (I am from the Caribean, so it is straps all year long). Or just made the straps when it was possible to change the straps of some bras.

[@mjdevorick8404]

That’s terrific! Thanks for more great tips and ideas.

[@GaryMason-n3k]

Sew Encouraging!

[@kriskeuler4455]

You are amazing ❤️beautiful top

[@belieftransformation]

Great creativeness! I have a few sweaters that I want to redo; wish me luck! Thanks for sharing!

[@annholmes9650]

Another great video, thank you x x x

[@mtz123ish]

Very cute!

[@vickytarbox9059]

Love your vidoes, I have learned so much.

[@JosieStev]

Beautiful ❤

[@dinab6242]

Very very nice

[@marthaluciagarcia176]

Love it

[@bonnierobbins4230]

Hi! Will you do a Cape tutorial? Wool and lightweight fabric? I'm interested on what design you consider 🤔 Peace and 😊 Bonnie Ohio

[@Maplecook]

Yoooooooooooo!

[@playhooky]

@Caterine Sews & anyone else who wants to give their opinion or advice: At around 11 minutes on playback where you go back & cut off a small section of the black elastic from the beginning of sewing it, you say you replaced your backtack. Do you normally always backtack when starting a seam using zig-zag stitch? I never knew if it would do any good to even backtack zig-zag. Sometimes if it's on a piece or in a place where I'm that concerned, I have actually backtacked 1st in straigh stitch just a very few stitches & then switched to zig-zag stitch. Also, I rewatched the beginning of that scene and I couldn't see that you backtacked but I could be missing something.

[@CatherineSews]

Yes, I always backtack a zigzag, but I might have edited that part out. Sometimes the backtack looks messy on a zigzag, so your method of using the straight stitch would work well.

[@playhooky]

@@CatherineSews Thank you so much for the answer!!!

[@annewhitney8809]

Love how to alter things you aren’t wearing to something you will wear. Which Canadian province do you live in? Some of the people I see upcycling live in warm climates and going sleeveless in February isn’t practical.🤣

[@CatherineSews]

I'm in BC 🇨🇦

[@NewsfromtheGrove]

I absolutely LOVE this! I might have to thrift myself a sweater dress! And make this. You are so clever! I am so glad I found your channel! What a good idea with the elastic on the cami and cardigan! Thank you Again for a great video / sewing idea.