3 Easy Ways to Make Non-Slip Slippers from Upcycled Sweaters

Updated at: 04/02/2025

Tired of slipping and sliding around the house in your socks? Wish you had cozy, comfortable slippers without the hefty price tag? Then you're in luck! This guide reveals three simple methods for crafting wonderfully warm and, most importantly, non-slip slippers using those old, unwanted sweaters gathering dust in your closet. Upcycling is not only eco-friendly but also a fantastic way to breathe new life into beloved garments and save money on unnecessary purchases. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to transform discarded wool and cashmere into practical and stylish footwear.

Forget flimsy, store-bought slippers that fail to provide adequate grip. These DIY options utilize readily available materials and easy-to-follow techniques to ensure your homemade slippers stay put, keeping you safe and comfortable all day long. Ready to transform your old sweaters into cozy, functional, and slip-resistant slippers? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Safety Guidelines

  • Always test the slipper's grip on a variety of surfaces before wearing them to ensure adequate non-slip protection. Different materials react differently.
  • Use only clean, dry materials to avoid slipping hazards caused by wet or soapy fabrics. Thoroughly wash and dry any upcycled sweaters before use.
  • Avoid using overly thin or worn-out sweater material as this compromises the overall durability and non-slip properties of the finished slipper.

Methods: Jiffy Grip Fabric Method

Tools Needed

  • Jiffy Grip fabric
  • sewing machine
  • scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Acquire Jiffy Grip Material

    • Purchase Jiffy Grip fabric from fabric stores or online.
    Purchase Jiffy Grip fabric from fabric stores or online.
    Acquire Jiffy Grip Material

  2. Prepare Jiffy Grip Sole

    • Cut out a sole piece matching the slipper's sole.
    Cut out a sole piece matching the slipper's sole.
    Prepare Jiffy Grip Sole

  3. Attach Jiffy Grip to Slipper

    • Sew the Jiffy Grip sole onto the slipper.
    Sew the Jiffy Grip sole onto the slipper.
    Attach Jiffy Grip to Slipper

Methods: Shelf Liner Method

Tools Needed

  • Shelf liner
  • sewing machine/needle and thread
  • scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Shelf Liner

    • Cut out a second sole piece using shelf liner.
    Cut out a second sole piece using shelf liner.
    Prepare Shelf Liner

  2. Attach Shelf Liner to Slipper

    • Sew the shelf liner sole onto the slipper or add small pads to the front and heel and zigzag stitch around them.
    Sew the shelf liner sole onto the slipper or add small pads to the front and heel and zigzag stitch around them.
    Attach Shelf Liner to Slipper

Methods: Suede Fabric Method

Tools Needed

  • Soft suede fabric
  • sewing machine
  • scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Suede Sole

    • Cut out a sole piece from suede fabric using the non-slip side.
    Cut out a sole piece from suede fabric using the non-slip side.
    Prepare Suede Sole

  2. Attach Suede Sole

    • Sew the suede sole onto the slipper.
    Sew the suede sole onto the slipper.
    Attach Suede Sole
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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using too thin or stretchy sweater material

Reason: Thin or overly stretchy sweater fabric won't provide enough structure or grip for a durable, non-slip slipper.
Solution: Choose a thicker, less stretchy sweater material like wool or a chunky knit for better support and grip.

2. Insufficient or unevenly distributed grip material

Reason: Using too little grip material or applying it unevenly results in uneven slipper performance and potential slippage.
Solution: Ensure the grip material, like rubberized fabric or non-slip patches, completely covers the sole and is applied smoothly for consistent grip.

FAQs

What kind of sweaters work best for making slippers?
Soft, stretchy sweaters like wool or cashmere are ideal. Avoid stiff or heavily textured sweaters as they may be uncomfortable or difficult to sew.
How durable are these upcycled slippers?
Durability depends on the sweater material and your sewing technique. Well-made slippers from sturdy sweater material can last for several months with regular wear. For added durability, consider adding a durable sole material like suede or felt.