Upcycling 101: Make the Most Out of Your Jeans
It’s no secret: jeans can be tricky.
According to a UK-based poll of about 2,000 women, nearly half had trouble finding the right size. If the waistband is too large, a simple belt could fix the issue, but that only scratches the surface when it comes to common denim dilemmas. They can be too tight, too long, too short – and you find that out only after you’ve spent the money. Plus, they never seem to fit quite right after they’ve gone through a few laundry cycles, do they?
(Side note: if you’re sick of them not fitting, stop putting them in the dryer! Air dry them on a rack instead. Works like a charm.)
Needless to say, we get your issues with jeans. But do you really want to let them just sit there and collect dust in your closet? Of course not!
Image Source: https://www.hockerty.com/en-au/blog/what-are-jeans-made-of
Sewing Projects
These projects are both beginner-friendly and engaging enough for the more experienced.
Making a denim cuff bracelet is a fun, easy project that requires only a needle and thread. To give it a personal touch, you can add some lace or fray the edges. It’s an incredibly versatile route to go down.
This next project is a little more challenging, and ideal for intermediate sewers (though anyone can try it out!). A denim tote bag is durable, cute, and sustainable. It takes up more fabric than the other options, meaning less waste left over when you’re finished. This one does require a sewing machine, due to the length of the process.
If you want to take on something a bit more time-consuming, try the denim quilt! This is a fun project that’ll yield long-lasting, comfy results. It works best if you have a sewing machine and multiple pairs of jeans, though much of that depends on the size of the blanket you want to make.
No-Sew Projects
These projects are small and simple, a perfect rainy day go-to.
First up is the pocket purse. Start by cutting out the pocket of your jeans. Then, cut out the seam. You can use any strip of denim from the jeans you’re using, but the seam is typically more durable. Next, poke holes through the top of the pocket and lace the fabric through. Tie it in a knot, and voila! You’ve got a little purse. You can paint it to add some flair.
Of course, all of these projects result in some fabric scraps. It’s impossible to upcycle it all…or is it? Turns out, these leftover scraps work great for making some jewelry.
Image Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fe8f6v1-TBU
The possibilities are endless when it comes to this. You can tie the scraps to a pair of hoop or dangly earrings, or work with whatever jewelry-related items you find in the craft store. For example, most craft stores sell necklace clasps and supplies; you can make a denim necklace pendant by cutting all sorts of patterns.
Don’t turn your nose up at those old jeans! They may have some use for you yet. With a little bit of dedication and imagination, the sky's the limit. Got any denim upcycling tips of your own? Let us know in the comments!
Written by Sara Traynor
Sara uses she/her pronouns. Fashion and writing are her two favorite modes of creative expression, and she loves to combine them in SFUSA. In her free time, she does crossword puzzles, reads, and watches SpongeBob.