From Closet to Cozy: Giving Your Clothes a Second Life
There’s something special about fall—the crisp air, the warm drinks, the cozy textures that make you want to snuggle in. But before you head out to buy new seasonal décor, take a peek in your closet. Those old sweaters, flannels, and jeans could be the secret to transforming your home into a warm, sustainable autumn haven.
At Tad More Tailoring, we believe every piece of fabric deserves a second life. Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or a beginner crafter, upcycling old clothes into fall décor is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to refresh your space while keeping textile waste out of the landfill.
Let’s explore creative, low-cost, and planet-friendly ways to cozy up your home this season.
Why Upcycling Clothes Makes the Perfect Fall Project
Before diving into the projects, let’s talk about why upcycling is so powerful:
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It’s sustainable. The fashion industry produces over 92 million tons of textile waste every year. By repurposing old garments, you’re helping reduce that number.
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It’s personal. Turning an old flannel into a pillow or an heirloom sweater into a pumpkin means your décor has meaning, not just style.
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It’s affordable. You can create high-end seasonal décor without spending a dime—just creativity and a pair of scissors.
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It’s cozy. Soft knits, worn denim, and cotton blends add texture and warmth that store-bought décor often lacks.
If you’re ready to make your home fall-ready, grab a few forgotten pieces from your closet (or thrift store finds) and get inspired.
1. Sweater Pumpkins: Soft, Sustainable, and Adorable
Old sweaters are gold when it comes to fall upcycling projects. Whether you use wool, cable knit, or even an old cardigan, you can turn them into beautiful fabric pumpkins that last for years.
What You’ll Need:
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An old sweater
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Scissors
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Needle and thread or fabric glue
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Stuffing (old pillow fill works great)
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Twine, sticks, or cinnamon sticks for stems
How to Make It:
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Cut a circle out of the sweater fabric.
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Stitch or glue the edges together, leaving a small opening.
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Fill with stuffing and close the opening.
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Add your stem and wrap twine around the top for a rustic touch.
Pro Tip: Mix textures—think one pumpkin from chunky knit and another from fine cashmere—for a cozy, layered look.
2. Flannel Pillows That Warm Any Room
Nothing says fall like flannel. Those old button-down shirts in plaid or checks can easily become throw pillow covers that bring cabin charm to your space.
Steps:
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Cut the shirt into a square or rectangle to fit your pillow insert.
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Sew or glue three sides together, leaving one open for the insert.
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Insert the pillow, then sew or button it closed.
Bonus: Use the shirt’s existing buttons as a functional closure—it’s both decorative and practical!
At Tad More Tailoring, we love projects like this because they combine fashion with function—and they give new life to materials that might otherwise go to waste.
Learn more about Tad More’s sustainability commitment →
3. Denim Baskets and Coasters: Blue Jeans, New Purpose
Old jeans are tough, durable, and perfect for projects that need structure.
Easy Denim Décor Ideas:
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Fabric baskets: Cut denim into strips, braid them, and coil into round baskets.
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Coasters: Cut out denim circles or squares and stitch around the edges with contrasting thread.
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Planter wraps: Use pant legs as wraps around small plant pots for a rustic touch.
Each piece of denim carries a bit of history—faded knees, frayed hems, and worn seams tell a story that adds character to your décor.
4. Table Runners from Old Shirts or Dresses
If you have old cotton dresses, skirts, or shirts that you love but never wear, turn them into a patchwork table runner.
How-To:
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Cut fabrics into strips or squares.
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Arrange them in a pattern (try alternating colors or textures).
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Sew them together lengthwise.
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Press flat and hem the edges for a finished look.
This project is great for beginners and can be customized for any color palette—muted neutrals for modern minimalists, or oranges and plaids for classic fall style.
Tad More Tailoring’s alteration experts can also help resize or repair table linens if you want to match your handmade décor to existing fabrics.
5. Memory Blankets or Chair Throws
Sometimes the most meaningful projects come from garments tied to memories. Combine old sweaters, flannels, or T-shirts into a fall throw blanket that keeps you warm all season long.
Quick Tips:
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Stick to similar fabric weights for even sewing.
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Use a fleece backing for added warmth.
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Mix sentimental pieces (like a college sweatshirt or your child’s old sweater) with neutral fabrics for balance.
This is the kind of heirloom piece that tells a story—one you’ll treasure every fall.
Sustainability Spotlight: Small Projects, Big Impact
Every upcycled item keeps fabric out of the landfill and reduces the demand for new materials. That’s a win for your wallet and the planet.
At Tad More Tailoring, sustainability is stitched into everything we do—from alterations that extend a garment’s life to training new tailors in Rockford, IL, through our apprenticeship programs.
We believe fashion should make people and the planet look and feel great.
Explore Tad More’s sustainability mission →
FAQs About Upcycling Clothes into Fall Décor
Q: What if I can’t sew?
No problem! Most of these projects can be done with fabric glue or fusible webbing. The goal is creativity, not perfection.
Q: Can I use thrifted clothes instead of my own?
Absolutely. Thrift stores are full of quality fabrics perfect for upcycling—just wash items before use.
Q: What should I do with leftover fabric scraps?
Turn them into small sachets, ornaments, or patchwork bookmarks—or bring them to Tad More Tailoring for creative reuse through local sustainability initiatives.
Fall in Love with Sustainable Style
This season, skip the big-box décor aisle and look to your own closet for inspiration. Every piece of clothing holds potential—it just takes a little imagination (and maybe a few stitches) to transform it into something beautiful and meaningful.
At Tad More Tailoring, we’re here to help you bring new life to the things you already love—whether that’s through expert alterations, creative repairs, or sustainability workshops.
Ready to start your own upcycling journey?
Visit Tad More Tailoring in Rockford, IL or book your alterations online today. →
(c)2024, Tad More Tailoring, LLC | All rights reserved | No claim to copyright is made for original U.S. Government Works.
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