Upcycled Denim Jeans, Thrifting and Sewing Projects
Got some old denim jeans lying around? Don’t toss them—upcycle them! Denim is perfect for creating sturdy, functional projects, and I’ve got a few upcycled denim projects that are easy and practical. In this post, I’ll share how to cut up your old jeans for the most fabric, how to thrift jeans and I’ll round up some of my favorite denim projects you can find right here on my blog. Let’s turn those worn-out jeans into something new!
Where to Find Old Denim Jeans for Upcycling
If you don’t have a stash of worn-out jeans lying around, no worries! Here are some great places to find old jeans to use for your next project:
- Your closet: Start with your own wardrobe. If you’ve got jeans with holes, stains, or ones you no longer wear, they’re perfect for upcycling.
- Family and friends: Ask around! Chances are, your family or friends have jeans they’re ready to get rid of. Most people are happy to donate them to a good cause (like your next sewing project!).
- Thrift stores: Thrifting is one of the best ways to stock up on old jeans. Look for sales at your local Goodwill, Salvation Army, or other secondhand shops where you can find a variety of styles and washes.
- Garage sales or online marketplaces: Keep an eye out for garage sales or check online platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. You can often find bulk clothing for cheap, which means more denim for your projects.
Thrifting Tips for Finding Denim
Thrift stores are denim gold mines! Here’s how to make the most of your thrifting trips:
- Shop the sales: Many thrift stores have half-off days or bag sales where you can stuff a bag for a set price. This is a great way to get denim for less.
- Look for different shades of denim: You’ll often find jeans in various washes and colors. Having a variety of denim shades in your project can create visual interest.
- Check for durability: When buying secondhand jeans, check the fabric for wear and tear. Avoid heavily frayed or thin areas that won’t hold up in your projects.
- Think beyond jeans: Denim jackets, skirts, and shirts can also be used for upcycling! Keep an eye out for any denim clothing in good condition.
Make sure you check this out!
After you read this post, make sure you also check out How To Learn How To Quilt: Beginner Quilting Guide. It’s jam packed with even more information, links and resources that are so helpful when you’re first learning. It also has a section with free quilt patterns that are great for beginners. So make sure you check this out, seriously don’t forget!
Grab a copy of my Quilt Planning Journal, filled with graph paper and note pages to help you design 4 quilts or sewing projects! You can jot down ideas as I see them, draw mock ups of quilts and write your cutting dimensions and finished quilt size for future reference. Pin in fabric swatches, photos of your finished quilts and enjoy your creative process!
How to Cut Denim Jeans for the Most Fabric
If you want to get the most out of your jeans, here’s a simple guide to cutting them up:
- Cut along the seams: Start by cutting along the inside seams of the legs. This will give you two large panels of fabric. Save those seam strips for fun accents on your projects.
- Keep the pockets: Pockets are pure gold when it comes to upcycling. Cut them out with extra fabric around the edges for easy stitching onto new projects.
- Front and back panels: Denim wears out differently in different areas, so check the front and back of your jeans for the best patches of fabric. Use the larger sections for bigger projects like bags.
- Repurpose the waistband and other details: Waistbands, belt loops, and even the zipper can be reused. Waistbands make great handles for bags, and belt loops can be added as extra embellishments.
Upcycled Denim Projects from My Blog
Here’s a roundup of some easy upcycled denim projects from my blog. These are great for beginners or anyone looking to make something useful from old jeans.
Denim Potholders with Pockets: These potholders are not only practical but super durable. The thick denim makes them perfect for handling hot pots and pans in the kitchen. Get the full step-by-step tutorial to make these heat proof potholders for your kitchen. These are great to give as a gift too!
Denim Handbag: This denim handbag is a stylish way to reuse your jeans. It’s got sturdy straps made from the waistband and an added pocket detail from the back of the jeans. Free pattern and instructions.
Denim Beach Bag: Need a sturdy, washable bag for your next trip to the beach? This beach bag is made from multiple pairs of jeans for extra durability and has pockets inside and out.
Consider using scrap fabric for the lining on either bag. Since we are recycling and not wasting things, try making your own fabric yardage from leftover tiny fabric scraps. That’s what I did for the lining in the beach bag. Easy to do and your not throwing anything away. Recycle and upcycle, help save our planet.
Other Creative Ideas for Upcycling Denim Jeans
If you’re feeling extra crafty, here are a few more upcycled denim ideas for the home quilter or sewist:
Denim Patchwork Projects: Patchwork is a fantastic way to use every scrap of denim, no matter the size. Combine different shades of blue for a classic patchwork look.
Here’s a pieced patchwork denim quilt by Quiltscapes and this one is gorgeous too!
Denim Quilts: Tough and warm, denim quilts are a great option for outdoor use or as a throw in a casual living space.
This denim strip quilt by It’s Always Autumn is really cute, you just need a large amount of jeans for this one.
Denim Aprons: Repurpose the tough fabric of jeans into a durable apron perfect for crafting or cooking. Here’s a vintage Levi’s denim apron selling for $150 at a retail store in Los Angeles. Why not make it yourself, looks easy!
Denim jeans are one of the easiest and most versatile materials to upcycle. Whether you’re making potholders, a handbag, or a beach bag, upcycled denim is both eco-friendly and durable. Plus, it’s fun to work with! If you don’t have any old jeans at home, hit up your local thrift store or ask around. Check out the links to my denim tutorials, and get started on your next project today! Happy sewing!
BEGINNER SUPPLIES
Here are some quilting tools and supplies I recommend. I make a small commission if you purchase through the links, this helps to support this free content. For more info, check out Supplies for Beginners (Best Tools To Start).
Rotary Mat Cutting Mat (Self-Healing Mat)
28 mm Rotary Cutter Replacement Blades
45 mm Rotary Cutter with Sharp Blade (start with this one)
45 mm Rotary Cutter Replacement Blades (start with this one)
60 mm Rotary Cutter Replacement Blades
4.5″ Square Ruler for half square triangles
12.5″ Square Ruler for blocks
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ABOUT SEW NIKKI
If this is your first time stopping by, welcome! I’m Nikki, a maker obsessed with quilting, crochet, and all things fabric. Here, you’ll find easy-to-follow patterns, helpful tutorials, and plenty of inspiration for your next handmade project. Grab your fabric (or yarn), and let’s create something beautiful together!
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