Sweater sleeves transform into colorful, autumn gourds

Crafters can make use of sweaters’ empty arms and create colorful, seasonal pumpkins at an upcoming workshop at the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art Ligonier Valley.

Mary Clark of Southwest Greensburg, a museum auxiliary member, will host “Pumpkin Palooza” from 1 to 3 p.m. Oct. 26 at the museum, 1 Boucher Lane and Route 711 South.

Clark will provide bags of sweaters, craft stuffing, string and rubber bands.

“That’s all you need. There is no sewing involved. Even my least crafty friends have been able to do it,” she says.

“I had a party at home and told everyone to bring a sweater and we made them. I’ve shown neighbors how to make them. It doesn’t matter what color the pumpkin is,” Clark says.

“I showed the ladies of the auxiliary how to make them after one of our meetings. It went over well. We are trying to find things that bring people in to the museum. Kristin (Miller, SAMA-Ligonier Valley coordinator) asked if I would do this,” she says.

Participants will leave the workshop with two pumpkins and instructions to make their own additional pumpkins.

Her advice? Pick up some sweaters at thrift stores. They are inexpensive and if the collars are worn or the front is stained, it won’t matter.

“You just need the sleeves,” Clark says.

Workshop cost is $10 and includes all supplies.

Registration details: 724-238-6015 or ligonier@sama-art.org