Products We Love

Sleigh the Holidays: DIY Stockings Made from Reused Clothing

Ready to add a little eco-sparkle to your holiday traditions? This year, instead of buying stockings, let’s make them! Not just any stockings—homemade beauties crafted from clothing you’ve Marie Kondo’d out of your closet. They’re chic, sentimental, and sustainable (a win-win-win). Here’s how to turn your old flannel shirts, denim jeans, or cozy sweaters into stockings Santa will be proud to fill.

Step 1: The Great Closet Raid

First things first—find your “fabric.” Old sweaters, button-ups, or jeans that no longer spark joy are perfect. Look for:

• Soft, stretchy fabrics for that cozy vibe.
• Denim for a rustic, farmhouse feel.
• Flannel for the ultimate winter aesthetic.

Bonus points if the fabric has sentimental value. Your kid’s outgrown hoodie or that shirt you wore to your first concert? Instant holiday nostalgia.

Step 2: Trace and Cut

It’s arts and crafts time, folks:

1. Find a stocking template online or trace one from a store-bought version. (No stocking handy? Freehand it. You’re creative like that.)
2. Lay your chosen clothing flat and pin the template to the fabric.
3. Cut around the edges, leaving about ½ inch for sewing. You’ll need two identical pieces—front and back.

Pro tip: If using a sweater, cut carefully to avoid unraveling. Nobody wants a stocking that looks like it’s seen a ghost of Christmas past.

Step 3: Stitch It Up

Here’s where it all comes together:

• Place the two fabric pieces right sides together (the side you want visible should be on the inside for now).
• Sew along the edges, leaving the top open. If sewing machines scare you, hand-stitching works just fine.
• Flip it right side out, and voilà! You’ve got a stocking shell.

Pro tip: Use contrasting thread for a cool, crafty look. Think red stitching on denim or white on plaid.

Step 4: Add a Little Pizzazz

Plain stockings are fine, but why stop at fine? Decorate like a DIY queen:

• Cuffs: Add a festive cuff using leftover sweater sleeves or faux fur scraps.
• Trim: Sew on pom-poms, lace, or ribbon.
• Personal Touch: Embroider names or glue on felt letters. Monogrammed stockings = instant heirlooms.

Upcycling bonus: Use shirt buttons or pockets for extra charm. Who doesn’t love a stocking with a secret stash spot?

Step 5: Hang ‘Em High

Add a hanger loop to the top corner—ribbon, twine, or even a belt from that shirt you just cut up. Hang it on your mantle, staircase, or anywhere that screams, “I’m festive and sustainable.”

Why It’s Worth It

• Eco-Win: Fewer new products mean less waste and fewer resources used.
• Budget-Friendly: Zero trips to the store = more cash for holiday treats.
• Feels: Handmade stockings filled with memories? You’ll win at gifting and at life.

So, this year, let your stocking story start with “This used to be Grandpa’s favorite sweater.” You’ll be saving the planet, one stitch at a time, while flexing some serious creative muscles. Who needs big-box stores when you’ve got a closet full of potential holiday magic?

Tag us with your creations @eveelife and show us how you sleighed this DIY project. Now go—Santa’s waiting! 🎅✨

Stay inspired with eveelife.com for tips, deals, and the latest on all things EV. Sign up for our E-Newsletter and follow evee Life on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news on EV technology.