Upcycling old denim jeans is a good way for giving the old items a new life. Instead of throwing away old jeans, make something new, creative, and useful out of them.
Denim is an incredibly tough and flexible material that can be used to create many sorts of DIY projects. Here are simple and fun denim upcycle projects.
Whether you are a seasoned crafter or just starting to make your own stuff, these projects are a must do for those looking to add that most personal touch to their wardrobe or home. So, without more ado, let’s dive into these DIY ideas using denim as a material.
Easy Denim Upcycle Crafts
1. Denim Tote Bag
Old denim jeans perfectly make use of creating a sturdy and stylish tote bag. Begin by cutting the legs off, then use the fabric to shape the body of the bag.
Then sides are sewn in combination; and straps, made out of the waistband or leftover fabric, can be used. Various embellishments, such as buttons or embroidery, can be added to the tote to create unique individuality to it.
In such a way, a pair of old jeans is now not only practical but is also given new life.
2. Denim Coasters
Denims from your old jeans can be salvaged into functional, colorful coasters. Cut the denim into small squares or circles, then sew or glue them together in layers for making denser ones.
You can make them thicker for added durability. Denim coasters protect surfaces from drink rings and add a rustic charm to your kitchen or dining room. Best of all, they are easy to clean!
3. Denim Patchwork Quilt
You can make an excellent patchwork quilt if you have several pairs of old jeans. Cut denim into the same size squares and sew them together.
Combine several different shades of denim for a unique look. It takes hours to put it together, but the result is a warm, unique functional quilt that is environmentally friendly.
4. Denim Apron
Denim apron is one of the best upcycle project ideas, especially for a person who likes cooking or crafting. Just cut up that old piece of denim, shape it, and there’s your apron, ready to go.
If you like giving your users that little bit of extra storage room, you might include some pockets as well, taking advantage of the denim’s robust quality to create something long-lasting around the kitchen.
And the best part? It is washable and tough enough to withstand any messy project!
5. Denim Headbands
Use remnants of your favorite jeans to make stylish headbands. Simply fold the edges under to prevent fraying and sew them shut.
Add some flair with buttons, fabric flowers, or lace to make a lovely, personalized headband. This is a quick project for a speedy gift or fashionable accessory.
6. Denim Planters
Turn your denim into lovely pot holders. Use cut-off denims, sew the leg ends together, and you have a small plant pouch. You can even take a denim pouch and drape it over an existing planter for a very chic look.
Denim planters give your plants a homespun, cozy look and prevent surfaces from water damage.
7. Denim Pillows
Denim throw pillows are a great quick fix for the house. You can cut up denim into square pieces and sew them together, then stuff them with pillow filling.
You can combine patches of different shades of denim for a patchwork effect or may add extra details like embroidery or fabric paint. They are comfortable and have a nice, homely rust charm to space.
8. Denim Wallet
You can make a wallet from old denim. Cut the fabric to fit your wallet pattern and sew up the sides with openings for cards and cash. You can be as creative as you like by using buttons or patches on your wallet design.
It’s one of those projects to make something functional out of your old jeans.
9. Denim Curtains
Denim is also a heavy fabric that works well for window treatments. If you have several pairs of jeans, you can come up with great-looking denim curtains.
Cut the legs into strips, sew them together and attach them to curtain rings or rods. Such DIY rugs provide durable, eco-friendly curtains that add a rustic feel to any room.
Related: 17+ Great DIY Denim Crafts For You
10. Denim Rugs
You can always upcycle old jeans to make a denim rug. Cut the denim into strips and braid them together into a round or rectangular rug. This is a very time-consuming project, but the outcome will be rewarding.
Denim is durable enough to make the rug last long, but that fun, personalized touch makes it welcome in your home.
11. Denim Bunting
Denim Bunting Banner: Create a denim bunting banner to decorate in your house or at a party. Cut triangles or rectangles from denim, and sew them onto a string or twine.
It’s a great way to introduce some personal touch into your space, whether it’s for special occasions or just to give a room that rustic touch.
12. Denim Keychains
Let’s use little pieces of denim for a cute and functional keychain. Cut little shapes, like hearts or circles, into small pieces.
Sew the pieces together to make a whole. You could also add a little charm or a keyring to make it more interesting for the eyes. To make denim bracelets, you can easily upcycle old jeans.
13. Denim Bracelets
This denim bracelet is so stylish and eco-friendly. Cut the strips of denim, fold them, and then have your cuff-style bracelet. Add beads or buttons, or make some fabric flowers to personalize your bracelet.
This project will only take a few minutes of your time. You can customize it to fit your style.
14. Denim T-shirt
If you have old denim and just a plain t-shirt, mix them together for an upcycled unique denim tee. Cut patches from the denim and sew them onto the t-shirt for a trendy upcycled design – you can put them on the front, back, or even on the sleeves.
This’s an excellent way of giving a basic tee a more original and stylish look.
15. Denim Coin Pouch
Coin purse from the smallest, most useful denim item: cut a little rectangle of denim; sew the edges to form a pouch. Attach a zipper or button on the opening.
Now you have a mini pouch to keep some coins, cards, or other little things. It’s that easy and so practical while using up denim scrap.
16. Denim Wallet with Card Slots
For an advanced denim project, make a wallet with card slots. You will begin by cutting your denim into the right size and then stitching together the sides.
You will add separate pockets for cards, cash, and coins. The amount of time this project takes is worthwhile once you have that very unique, handmade wallet that’s both useful and stylish.
17. Denim Fingerless Gloves
Old denim is great for making such handmade work utility fingerless gloves. Cut your denim to the correct shape, and sew the edges so that the fabric does not fray you can add some stretch with fabric or elastic to make sure it fits snugly on the wrist.
These gloves are good for colder weather while allowing you the use of your fingers.
18. Denim Bag Organizer
You can change denim into a handy bag organizer that keeps your purse or tote bag tidy and neat.
All you have to do is cut out more pieces of denim and sew them together to create space for your phone, keys, makeup, and so much more. This will keep everything in order while also untangling clutter in your bags.
19. Denim Napkin Rings
Transform old denim to create fabulous napkin rings that adorn your table. Cut the denim strips and fold and sew them into a loop shape, so you can end every napkin ring with buttons or other decorations for a truly handmade look.
20. Denim Dog Collar
Take old denim and create a tough and stylish dog collar. Cut the denim strips wide enough for the dog’s neck. Attach a buckle and D-ring for attaching a leash, thus having a personalised and rugged collar that feels stylishly comfortable for your pet.
Conclusion
Upcycle those used old worn-out denim jeans into creative functional and artistic projects. This is a great way to reduce the waste and breathe new life to your jeans.
Whether you make simple crafts from denim such as denim keychains and bookmarks or bigger pieces like denim quilts and curtains, the idea list for reusing denim is endless.
Not just fun, these projects will add a personal, rustic touch to your home or wardrobe. So, collect your old jeans and get started! Creativity for these will inspire you to start a new creative project today.
Pingback: 20 No Sew Denim Crafts You Can Make Today