I’m doing a series of posts called “Tiny Tweaks” – simple changes that make a difference – in hopes of crossing things off my to-do list or simply making things a little bit better. 

In anticipation of fall, I’ve been searching for a lightweight, drapey cardigan, something to grab on those days when chilly mornings turn into warm afternoons.

I found this one at a thrift store.

I love the color and knit pattern, but I didn’t like the fringe. I thought I could easily remove it to make it just right – still cozy, less boho. My plan was to just chop off the fringe with scissors.

I realized once I started cutting that the fringe was just the loose ends of knit at the bottom of the sweater, so if I cut them off, it would fray in to a big old frizzy mess.

Luckily, the fringe was a separate piece of knitting that had been attached with a serger. I have LOTS of experience removing serger threads.

The serger thread was a different color and texture than the knitted yarn, so I could easily see which threads to cut with my seam ripper.

Once I made a few cuts, the fringed piece began to separate from the body of the sweater. But it wasn’t quick work. I took my time to make sure I didn’t pull any yarn loose. It took about an hour to remove everything.

I texted this photo to my friend, Christy, and said, “I’m removing fringe from a sweater. Why do I do these things? And why did both kids immediately say, ‘Can I use this for an invention? Or for my Halloween costume?'” (So far, the costume ideas are a ninja and a black kitty. No fringe needed.)

“Kids are pack rats,” she responded. So true.

Perfect. Exactly as I imagined, paired with a vintage sleeveless blouse and cut-off shorts.

And some new earrings! I’ve been playing around with earrings this summer, trying out different shapes and sizes.

The new circle earrings are listed in my Etsy shop. (Currently available in silver and bronze – more colors coming soon!)