Sweater UPCYCLING!

[@earthangellibra2925]

Needle broke and immediately gave video a like... lol... because we being real here. 👍

[@CatherineSews]

I appreciate that, lol. That crazy needle gave me a heart attack!

[@kathyf7757]

Been there, done that!!! The Babylock machine you use was made by Brother. I’ve had several Brother and Babylock machines over the years and they all sieze up like that when the needle breaks. Such a horrible, terrible, awful feeling, so visceral, you never forget it! I’m so glad you kept that in the final edit. Liked and subscribed!

[@annefletcher1322]

I don't sew but I love watching your transformations. I do crochet and I think doing a crocheted edge to your grey sweater was brilliant 🙂

[@zibirix]

love the ideas, but most of all, to see not to cut off the scene that a needle is breaking in a tutorial is something refreshing. everything seems so perfect in almost every tutorial videos, that I always wonder, do they never have problems. so thanks for this.🙏🥰

[@TheCalucita]

Thank you for leaving the needle break in the video. Seeing videos like this before i started sewing, and seeing that even experienced sewists broke needles every now and then made it all the less scary when it happened to me the 1st time 💜

[@beebuzz959]

It's also a safety issue, I've had needles shoot into my eye area. I was lucky though because I wear glasses. So I was glad for it for that as well. I hope others take heed.

[@ahlamahmad2715]

Very good fresh ideas.

[@dreed1058]

I'm entirely too lazy to do this but I watched every minute! Love how you explain all the steps, and enjoying your creativity!

[@sacredcowbbq1326]

Same here!

[@kellyhudspeth1736]

Regarding your repair of the hole on the red sweater ~ I heard what you said there ~ “pretty DARN good” 😊 get it? You “darned” the sweater! 😮

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, I didn't even catch that!

[@rosemarymonty5399]

Breaking a needle scares the heck out of me too. Love this channel. I’ve lost about 50 lbs in the last 2 years and have gone from an xl to s-m. 😊All my clothes are really big. I haven’t bought much because I’m still losing (I’m 5ft and currently around 123lbs). I’ve donated a lot of clothes but there are some I want to adjust. I’m an experienced sewer, quilter, knitter and Crocheter however not very confident in my abilities. What you have done with the sweaters is great. I’m going to give adjusting my clothes a try. Thank you.

[@CatherineSews]

Wow, that's a huge weight loss! Amazing. And yes, give resizing a try! So glad to have you on board my channel.

[@SisterShirley]

Rosemary Monty, first, congratulations on your weight loss journey. Secondly, since you are a veteran craftswoman, give resizing your clothing a try. And as a bonus, maybe you'll have enough of some fabric left over for a quilting project. It sounds like you are getting near to your goal weight. I still have a long way to go and watching this video and reading your comment has given me the little extra push I needed today (and most days) Best sincere wishes from, The Great Lake State of Michigan 🐢

[@inglishhomeandgarden8386]

Great job on the weight loss! I've gone from XL to medium (small), and also have loads of clothes to alter. These videos give me confidence!

[@beebuzz959]

It's scary! But I really hope you try! The worst that can happen is you'll have even more to craft something else with, lol! But chances are you'll end up with a "new" wardrobe and be really happy and proud. Go for it!

[@jesshothersall]

Congratulations and I hope the resizing went well, and you're happy with your new size too

[@cstatham2007]

This is so,interesting- I am afraid of working with knits but you’ve inspired me. Also, you have a lovely speaking voice - I’d listen to whatever you have to say!

[@gingerblack4528]

Oh my gosh I have been looking for this for a long time I am 5'1 and my sweaters are always too long in the sleeves this will help me a lot not only to shorten it but to also redesign things that I get from salvation army! I am a low income senior with limited funds and this will help me a lot to make my garments look a lot nicer! Thank you so much for this!!!

[@debinnashville2009]

Me too!

[@kittybartlett8198]

Catherine, what a nice discovery to find your channel! My very simple, older Sears sewing machine has been gathering dust in the closet for several years and truthfully, I've been wanting to start sewing again. Eons ago, I worked in a notions department (actually also at Sears & Roebuck, if that tells you how old I am!) and I sewed all my own clothes in high school and for a few years afterwards - Mom always helped and encouraged me. She could sew all kinds of things without a pattern and is so talented! I have never gotten up to her level, but I always enjoyed sewing - only IF my things turned out well! Seeing you play around with these sweaters reminds me that I want to get started again. Thank you for this encouragement! Can't wait to see more of your videos.

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks for the lovely comment, Kitty!

[@makeitjoyful]

You are blowing my mind! I love how you creatively approached each of these thrifted sweaters. They look fantastic, and I learned a lot. Thank you!

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks, Melanie! And good luck with your channel!

[@348Tobico]

I really thought I was the only one who had a heart attack when I broke needles!! It does happen but now I realize I don't need to drink a case of some "adult" beverage to calm down and carry on. I really want to dig into garment upcycling. The sleeve on the red cashmere is a "dolman"--designers worst idea EVER! Excellent save with the second zipper. It added structure to a very floppy opening! Love the ideas and am now a subscriber.

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, I love that. You and I are going to get along just fine! 😃

[@lorrainedempsey3320]

Great transition for the pale grey sweater.

[@sozofam2164]

They’re all amazing, and YOU are very brave!!

[@lizenglish6130]

Have just discovered your channel Catherine. I’m in the UK. Your voice is very relaxing to listen to and your instructions are excellent. You have inspired me, thank you. 😊x

[@FullSailEVE]

Love what you did with the grey sweater! The last one I think I would have sewn that second slice back up and add a thin gold chording to cover that up and match the gold in the zipper on the upper cut.

[@jesshothersall]

I like that idea, and totally agree with you

[@janeenvance3844]

Perfect idea

[@LBird-l5n]

Ignore any negative comments of your superb skills. You're very brave to display your work for critique. Too bad that some people feel compelled to criticize, and repeat negative comments already made. I'm learning lots from you even though I'm well seasoned. LUV your creativity. Please continue sharing ... many hugs... 😊

[@QueenAmethyst55]

What an absolute treat! Seeing Queen Catherine of Sewing making faces about necklines! Altering jumpers is probably my favorite thing so was delighted to wake up to this video. 👍💃🙂 Catherine sometime would you make a video of transforming a jumper into a waistcoat with buttons? Would love to see you do that. The jumpers turned out great. Well done.

[@CatherineSews]

My Queen! You're a Brit! I didn't know that till now with your jumpers and waistcoats, lol. I'll take your request to heart and see what I can come up with. Thanks for starting my Saturday with your lovely comment. 💖

[@Morganistas]

Ha, her thumbnail is hilarious

[@HollieGiles]

I have been sewing for my whole life, and I am also a dedicated thrifter, which I think is great fun if you live where the thrift stores are loaded with great finds. I did live in Chicago, which has such great finds, but now I live in a smaller city and the thrifting is less exciting, and not so easy to find the best stuff. I have to say, for as long as I have been sewing, I never really thought of changing a sweater like you just demonstrated; I am impressed. I have fixed lots of holes, and changed some things, but not to the extent that you did. I now realize, since the thrifting is not as productive here, that I can change things, and now as I shop I will look at everything differently, knowing I can make it better for me, and for my daughter, who also loves to thrift. Thank you Catherine!

[@CatherineSews]

Yes! For someone with your sewing skills, a thrift store holds endless possibilities!

[@sil7428]

I really want to give you more than one thumb up ! You're work is wonderful und your videos are like sitting next to you and look over your shoulder. Thank you so much, you really help me with your ideas.

[@CatherineSews]

Awww, thanks, Sil! That's so great to hear!

[@asterismos5451]

The end result worked great but during the crisis point with the blue sweater my solution was to add in a lacing detail in the second slash: it'd connect the top and bottom back together and prevent the sagging and add another bit of interest.

[@CatherineSews]

Oh, I like that idea!! That would've been a cool addition to the whole look.

[@carlyk502]

I really like it. It’s very edgy & bold & so very way, way out of the box of how sweaters should be

[@CatherineSews]

So glad you like it! Thanks!

[@carlyk502]

You’re very welcome, keep up the good work!☺️

[@lucilledaub5991]

I love your can do attitude. Great remakes for your sweaters.

[@lottalehm]

I love how you said 'finally sweater weather'. Yes, finally! Thanks for your ideas for altering boring sweaters into designer clothes. Love from Germany

[@nadyshkaplyshka1332]

You’re so talented….

[@rondabergeron4414]

very good. A suggestion, my father-in-law was a finishing carpenter and his motto was measure several times before you cut. It works. Everything looks great. Good job.

[@marielepizzera7095]

Just what I needed to take a turtleneck down. Since I have a short neck, I’m definitely am going to use your video. Thanks a million.

[@sallyescrader1434]

Hello again, Catherine. This video is truly inspirational! I have about 7 HUGE jumpers in beautiful colours, but that I no longer wear because they are SO dated…. but now I have the knowledge to revamp them all, all thanks to you! Breaking needles is an occupational hazard if, like me, you sew for a living! It never fails to give me heart palpitations!! I’ve been binge-watching your tutorials and have already pieced together t-shirts to make them bigger, changed round necked t-shirts into “v” necks and many more projects. I’ve saved myself a fortune! Thank you soooooo much!

[@hwezda]

Your marvelous alterations are more slimming on you. It's kind of amazing.

[@georginassanchez7519]

I never thought to upcycle a sweater! It just didn't occur to me to use the regular sewing machine to sew a sweater. I'll have to remember if I see a sweater I like but might want to change something about it. Thanks!

[@joankiely3614]

You are indeed so innovative, artistic & very very brave! You cut without hesitation & like you said never give up! I’m an old schooler & never like to take risks. I have learnt so very much from you & now instead of gifting many clothes to the good will, I have started to think first & have been brave enough to alter many jumpers. That’s so great being a pensioner & I’m getting a lot of satisfaction from doing so. Thanks so much & cheers from Western Australia 😊🥰❤️💕😍😘👏

[@AnneluvsKatz]

L❤VE the grey makeover. And nice save on the zipper one. I think I’d put a piece of a small elastic at the bottom of the gap between the 2 zippers. It gaps a tad there.

[@enksmom]

I think the width of the neckline on the grey sweater is perfect! I love these upcycles so much! You have just the content I have been searching for!

[@carlyk502]

Thank you for the inspirational videos. Yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks! I learn something new each & every time I watch your videos. Thank you.

[@lindadelacy9330]

WOW!! They all came out so well. LOVE the zippers & how you figured out how to fix what you didn't like by putting in the 3rd zipper. SO smart!!! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, ya, I was really in a jam until I remembered I had one more zipper! Now I love it!

[@prarieborn6458]

Re : Red sweater: could you try a little bling to cover the rough spots on the new neckline, such as seed beads with a little sparkle in a shade a bit darker ?. i have heard that the new fashion color for 2023 is magenta. I have a boiled wool short jacket in a plum color that i just loved but the moths ate random spots.,and the mends I made did not look so good. i treated the edges of the holes i could not fix with Fray Check, then sewed hot pink sequins over the mends and holes.. I added a sequin here and there to balance the effect.it turned out really nice. it was subtle with a sparkle here and there..& blended with the plum color as if it was designed that way.. The sequins do not detract in any way from any jewelry i may wear, such as a necklace or a brooch.

[@CatherineSews]

That sounds like a brilliant form of visible mending! I love it!

[@ChristenMestre]

3rd zipper saved the day for sure 🎉

[@bloomsandthreads8519]

Great video. Great refashioning.

[@nancyhurt7145]

I’ve never altered a sweater so will be on the lookout at thrift stores! How fun!

[@lisajswan]

Thank you! Very interesting content and good ideas.

[@karenb8561]

I was laughing at your reaction when the needle broke. That is just what I do. Really enjoying your videos Catherine

[@michelleskotynsky9426]

When Catherine said, "change the needle...", I was thinking, "change my pants!"

[@maryann1187]

I’ve shared your “high neckline, I can’t breathe” videos with my sister! 😂 She feels the same way! I agree that high crew necklines are not flattering on women! Love your channel! Learning so much!

[@jseidel70js]

I'm the same with the necklines.

[@amyreid9649]

Well don’t know why this was in my suggested but I’m glad it was. Time to pull my sewing machine out and play around with some sweaters I stopped wearing because of neck line. If I mess up no loss since I haven’t worn them. But you inspired me to try!!!! New subscriber.

[@CatherineSews]

Yay! So glad to hear it. Happy to have you on board!

[@arlenemurphy804]

Catherine, loved all..I am starting to get your courage ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@barbaravoneitzen7729]

They came out cute. Good job.not giving up. Which I usually do.

[@CatherineSews]

Yes, it's often easier to give up, but much more satisfying to press on until you have a finished product that you like.

[@MrsMTMomma]

I do sew but never had the courage to do an alteration to a sweater. I have a lovely cashmere with a cowl that is just too long. When I try to get it to lay nicely there’s just too much neck to turn under without it looking messy. NOW, I’m going to take that cowl off, shorten it and fit it into the neck and stitch it on. Looking forward to this!!

[@jenniferrice5877]

I'm a sewer, a crocheter, a knitter and a embroiderer. The stitch you are doing is a one and a half double crochet. It makes a very nice edge. You have such a nice manner I could watch you all day.

[@CatherineSews]

A one and a half double!? That sounds like a Canadian coffee order. In my limited understanding of crochet, I really thought it was a double! Thanks for letting me know ☺️

[@ellesansnom4425]

Good morning. A little, nice advice: use a smaller, metal hook. the work will be easier for you. Thank you for sharing your beautiful recycling with us, they are all great!

[@bc927]

Wow! I just mustered up all the courage to alter a blue sweater by folding in the cowl, stitching and then cutting off the excess. I feel SO much more comfortable wearing it as I also cannot tolerate turtle neck type sweaters, even though I like the look on others. The bottom of this sweater is rounded, but I think I'd also like to cut it off and try the fringe look! You are such an inspiration!! Thank you!!💕

[@CatherineSews]

That is wonderful to hear, BC! good luck with your fringe!

[@tinakerr8163]

Really like the red jumper on you, that colour suits you. Also much more visible that black.

[@pamleonard7330]

I love your short soliloquoy at 32:10 about how you deal with a project that is going sideways. I’ve been in this situation many times and often have been tempted to throw my hands in the air in surrender. Pressing forward in spite of everything often yields success. The other way to deal at peak frustration is to “step away from the machine”! Then go do something else for a while. When returning with a fresh mind, often the problem magically seems to solve itself. If pressing through and stepping away don’t work, then you “might” have a project that should be abandoned. 😅 Love your creativity with refreshing outcasts.

[@CatherineSews]

Your advice about stepping away is very wise. Sometimes sleeping on it helps a lot, then, as you say, when you get back to it, it solves itself. And I agree, that there does come a point where abandonment is the only rational solution! I don't say, "Never give up." Just don't give up too easily 🤪

[@silentmentor5888]

I have a beautiful heavy cashmere sweater with giant turtle neck! I've never worn but was sure there was a way to remove that hideous neck line. Now there is!!!!!!! I will follow your instruction and be delighted!!!! So happy. Your gray sweater is perfect!!!

[@auntiezann5146]

Loved them all, but the gray was my favorite! I, too, loathe bulky high collars, and I probably wouldn’t even have looked at that sweater in the store! Beautiful!

[@Queenread82]

This video is such an inspiration, thank you. I am the same way with necklines. I have altered several tshirts (I really hate those high crew necks!) and I turned a turtleneck into a collared v-neck using some embroidered trim I had in my stash. It looks cool and I’ve had a couple of compliments so I guess I’m not the only one who thinks it is an improvement.

[@jori7398]

The red sweater… so perfect for the plaid skirt ❤️💫

[@dorothytackett9943]

Love the changes you made. Inspires me to improve the fit of one of my sweaters. TFS

[@dianeroome972]

Dang! Anyone else here wishing they could find a beautiful cashmere sweater at the thrift store?

[@katella]

Go to thrift stores near a rich neighborhood.

[@lacysyverson2782]

I have one that is awesome but a bit too big, now I have inspiration that I could make it perfect!

[@silverhoyden4178]

I find them a lot…end of winter/spring or in fall is a good time to look-good luck

[@eryncook7769]

I wish they would let the poor animals keep their "cashmere". Synthetic yarns can be just as luxurious. Don't support such a cruel industry

[@AmandaIsAwesome]

@@eryncook7769I've had cashmere goats. They live a happy life and get high quality hay so they grow long healthy hair. Then get a haircut. Nothing cruel about it. Synthetic yarns will never biodegrade.

[@juliefakkema]

I've been a knitter for years, and have finally decided to work harder to create my own sweaters so they'll fit. Now I see I can recycle the ill fitting sweaters, and I'm really irritated I didn't think of it years ago. So glad to have stumbled on your channel!!

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks, Julie! Great to have you on board!

[@milpeg9526]

As a viewer, this feature of chapters that you have added is very usefull. Your videoo is the first one I see with this feature.

[@CatherineSews]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dorothylynch7264]

Thank you for leaving the needle breakage in the video. We get to see that it happens to all of us, especially a new sewer seeing this. My first time here, have liked and subscribed and will be back. Thanks.

[@amygawtry754]

I agree...thanks for leaving in your needle break!

[@INKSTARS1138]

So I found this video, and was able to fix a sweater I love but could no longer wear, and I am so happy! I have three other sweaters to fix, and am super excited to do it! Thank you so much for these. I've always been scared to, and there's no reason to be.

[@riobird1363]

😳 😮 🤯 OMG this video made me remember ALL the sweaters I thrifted because I got bored with it or couldn’t fit it anymore etc. Never again 😂 now I know how give my clothes a make over!!! I loved watching this video and I enjoyed the process, I was at the edge of my seat waiting for the outcome 😂thank you for sharing your talent!

[@sharidaugherty9772]

Hi Catherine. Omg love how the grey sweater came out. Red one is perfect. The blue one what a great design idea.

[@CatherineSews]

Thank you, Shari! So glad you like them all!

[@debracalliss5958]

Nice job. On the gray sweater, I would have suggested picking up and knitting the edge but the crochet did work. That’s just the knitter in me talking. Every time I see someone cut into a knit I go a bit faint.

[@CatherineSews]

Lol, sorry if I made you faint! That waffle knit definitely complicated things for me, especially as a very novice knitter. 🤩

[@DH-ku6qg]

Love the way you teach, showing everything. Good job!

[@phyllisatbraniff7097]

I like, that you mentioned, You "Don't Give Up!" I needed to hear that, in many areas of my life!! "SEWING," Too! 🪡🧵🧶🪢

[@tamabogert9494]

I was introduced to sewing in home-ec class 9th grade. I didn't start sewing again for 15 yrs, 30 yrs ago. Anything I sewed since then I figured out on my own. My point is, I learned so much from this video. Thank you.

[@CatherineSews]

Tama, that is amazing to hear! I'm so glad you found my channel!

[@lisacho2725]

I really love the tie dye zipper upcycle look. From boring to fun!

[@victoriao1828]

I have a sweater that the neckline has bothered me when I wear it for years. You've inspired me to tackle it. Thank you so much.

[@victoriao1828]

You gave me so many wonderful ideas❤ thank you so much❤

[@TwistedRootsVanVelzerPress]

I LOVE that you show at the end you wearing the before and afters - it helps me envision my own plans so much better than any other way I've tried so far

[@irenelovelyasusual8035]

Omg! You are a great teacher and a genius! I really enjoyed this video and learned a lot from it. Thank you!!!

[@tracybarnes6608]

Wow I loved your ideas, you explain it all so well, I guess that’s why you’re a good teacher lol. I even understood those two crochet stitches for the first time in my life. I do wish you lived next door xxx

[@klynndubois6200]

Great comeback from the 2 zipper to 3. I always enjoy your videos!🤗🥰 have a blessed day!

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks so much, K Lynn!

[@TeresaV]

I don't think I've ever seen someone crochet with the crochet hook AND the yarn in the same hand. Interesting. Also, from the instructions you gave, that looks more like a treble crochet than a double. Of course, the abbreviations and directions for crocheting have changed so many times through the years. 🤷‍♀️ I think I might actually tackle some sweaters I have tucked back, using your tutorials. Thanks for your video creations. 😊 P.S. I love the bobby pin trick for the tassels!🪡🧵🧶

[@Monga_Makes_Things]

Catherine, I love your remakes and upcycles!! I sometimes just dive in and then have to fix my fixes. I appreciate seeing your thought process as you plan each redo and work through the surprises. You’re so inspiring! -Addie

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, I can totally relate to the idea of fixing your fixes. That was what happened with the blue one! Thanks, Addie!

[@susanrussell8195]

I love the changes you made to the first two sweaters. I agree that you should have just went with one slash. The addition of the zipper was brilliant. More designer/polished. Truly inspiring content.

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks so much, Susan. Great to hear 😊

[@carolvanleer3386]

On the third top, I was thinking of the second zipper before you pulled it out. So glad you went that way.

[@reeseoroni]

Definitely two cuts/3 zippers! Looks super cool. Looks great on you. Enjoyed watching this vid for the third time.

[@charlottewilson4680]

The blue one is adorable.

[@JoytoWorld]

Love, Love, LOVE! Thank you for your creative upcycling ideas on knits!! I've lost weight and can't afford a new wardrobe. Been shopping Goodwill and these updates are inspiring!!

[@Morganistas]

This was fun and inspiring, Catherine! You have guts with that cashmere but it paid off! Thank you for keeping it real and not editing out those broken needle moments and last minute changes - that's what connects with us amateurs out here and gives us courage to experiment with you! Now I need to train my teen girls to pin for me 😁

[@CatherineSews]

Can you believe that I actually broke TWO needles in that video! I saved the footage of the second one for my next blooper reel! I left this one in because while I was editing it made me jump and giggle every time it came up. So glad you enjoyed the video!

[@barbarapearce1464]

😊😊😊

[@angellestone9160]

Love how honest you are with the process broken needle and all. I have a few canniblized projects I’m going to tackle again thanks to your encouragement. I think thr zipper project turned out really cool. Like Bob Ross of painting always said “ happy little accident “.

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks, Angelie! I love including all the "happy little accidents!"

[@helenablignaut662]

You inspired me so much since I discovered your channel! My one daughter just collected a dress that I made a little smaller for her and I'm nearly done with a top made from scratch without a pattern for my other daughter.

[@CatherineSews]

I'm thrilled to hear this, Helena! That's amazing!

[@ooohlaa13]

U sure are savvy about the construction of sewing, I don't have that kind of mind but I can embellish really well. Your sewing, cutting and visualizing skills are amazing and an inspiration. Thank you.

[@CatherineSews]

Oh thank you! That's very sweet to hear!

[@charlottewilson4680]

Thank you for leaving in the broken needle. I do this occasionally.

[@joannemcd1257]

These 2 upcycled blouses turned out spectacular! Beautiful job, Catherine! ❤

[@Lojay_5]

Love to watch your ideas. I’m an avid sewer so I really appreciate you!!!

[@yvettwhitaker6033]

The gray sweater is adorable. You are very talented

[@nelleenwilliams4825]

A really talented seamstress. I’m glad I found your channel ❤

[@michaelsnider2484]

Your instructions and demonstrations are so amazingly clear! Thank you!

[@MelliaBoomBot]

What skill you have. Beautiful!

[@heathermackay58]

I like your confidence That neckline on the red one looks way better now. You made it look easy. Thank you for the inspiration Catherine

[@Sewlady718]

I love what you did with the grey and red sweaters. Who doesn't love cashmere! The blue one with the zippers.......not a big fan of. I agree one opening would have been perfect, but kudos to you that you never give up. I have a gorgeous black and white stripe sweater I love, but messed up the neckline badly. Now you've given me the inspiration to go back and give it another try. Thanks. Love your videos.

[@martimoore740]

I love love love that fringe! You just keep inspiring me. Thank you. I am almost to the point of having the courage to buy beautiful thrifted sweaters with tight neck openings!

[@CatherineSews]

Go for it, Marti! You've got this! Worst case scenario is that you learn a lot while giving it a try.

[@dawnj216]

I actually like the 3rd one best! I love that style, but hadn’t really thought about how to incorporate that look. Great idea, thanks!

[@songbird3094]

They all turned out great 😍. TFS

[@Linda-mp8co]

Wow awesome fixes! I never would have thought about putting in zippers but it's such a cool look. You look fantastic in your redesigns!