My husband has this saying: “Good… Fast… Cheap…: Pick Any Two.” And for most everything in life, I agree. Now, though, there’s one possible exception: Making scarves and other creations from old wool sweaters. My workshop yesterday at Crispina ffrench’s Pittsfield studio was wicked fun. And I’m telling you, Crispina’s technique, which is detailed in her new book — The Sweater Chop Shop: Sewing One-of-a-kind Creations from Recycled Sweaters — is amazingly easy — with a big-time payoff.
It even fits within the Retro Renovation ethic, because it is based on taking old (err: “vintage”), 100% wool sweaters, washing and drying them in hot/heat so that they shrink and “felt” up… then hand-stitching them together into scarves, blankets, pillows, sweaters, toys, and more. Like: You don’t need to worry about fraying edges with felted wool… cut your pieces, design, stitch & run. It’s EASY and almost impossible to make anything that doesn’t look fabulous. It was great fun to be able to learn how to make felted wool creations directly from Crispina ffrench… but if you aren’t planning a trip to Pittsfield, Mass., any time soon, I highly recommend her book. Very gratifying. Thank you, Crispina. I have a bundle of holey sweaters agitating right now.
pam art says
Hi, Pam —
I’m sorry I missed meeting you – I was at Crispina’s workshop on Saturday and Sunday, so we just missed by a day. What a creative place! Your scarf looks terrific —
Love your website.
Pam
sabrina says
Karen, I’ve found plenty in LA area Goodwill stores! I used to make my oldest daughter wool diaper cover for her cloth diaper covers with them (yes, they actually work).
Cute scarf, Pam! Have you seen some of her “potholder rugs” on etsy? I want one of those (a big one, for our bedroom) so bad.
karen says
But where do I find 100% wool sweaters in SoCalif????
pam kueber says
haha
esills says
Love the post ~ and loved the workshop. It was great to meet you, Pam! And to all your fans/followers/readers: Crispina rocks; she’s worth the drive!
RetroSandie says
Very nice, Pam! Felting is an interesting craft – and such a good way to recycle! Glad you enjoyed your class and thanks for showing us your lovely creation!!! 🙂
pam kueber says
That’s chocolate brown, Denise. After I get myself to the beauty shoppe this week for a looooong overdue visit, it will match my hair.
Queen of Fifty Cents says
I love felted sweaters! Cutting off the sleeves and putting a slit in the seam for your thumb makes the easiest typing mitts ever if you work in a chilly office. I keep a bright pink pair at work, now everyone wants some!
Jane (aka Elvis) says
That scarf looks fabulous, Pam! I love the look of felted wool items, so thanks for the tip on Crispina’s book!
denise says
hey, look at you with that pretty scarf, love the colors and the flower detail. I especially like the grey (or is that brown?) wavy edge!! and of course, a little dash of orange is always a favorite.