30 Clever Ways to Repurpose Old Jeans You’ll Use

Got a pile of old jeans you don’t wear anymore? Don’t toss them denim is one of the toughest, most versatile fabrics out there, and it’s perfect for upcycling. With a little creativity, you can turn those worn-out blues into home décor, handy organizers, or even stylish accessories. Here are 30 clever ways to give your jeans a second life.

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Denim Throw Pillow Covers

Transform your old jeans into cozy, rustic pillow covers that bring instant warmth to your home. Patchwork designs highlight different denim shades, while intact jean pockets add personality and function. These are perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, or even outdoor patios.

Shopping List:

• 2–3 pairs of old jeans (different washes for variety)
• Pillow inserts (any size you prefer)
• Fabric scissors & measuring tape
• Sewing machine (affiliate) or hand-sewing needle & strong thread
• Zipper, buttons, or Velcro (for closure)
• Pins or clips to hold fabric in place

How to Make It:

1. Measure Your Pillow Insert: Measure length and width, then add 1 inch to each side for seam allowance.
2. Cut Your Denim Pieces: Cut panels or squares from jeans. If doing patchwork, mix light, dark, and medium washes. Use pockets for fun details.
3. Arrange Your Design: Lay out the pieces on a table until you like the look. For beginners, start with two large panels (front & back).
4. Sew the Panels Together: With right sides facing in, sew around three edges, leaving one side open for the pillow insert.
5. Add Closure: Sew in a zipper, add buttonholes, or fold edges into an envelope-style opening.
6. Insert Pillow & Finish: Turn the cover right-side out, stuff in your pillow, and close securely.

These make fantastic beginner sewing projects practical, stylish, and budget-friendly.

Table Runner

Give your dining table a rustic edge with a denim table runner. Easy to sew, endlessly customizable, and surprisingly elegant when paired with white plates and fresh flowers, this is a statement piece that feels both casual and chic.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans (different washes for contrast)
• Fabric scissors
• Sewing machine or hand-sewing needle & strong thread
• Measuring tape
• Pins or clips

How to Make It:

1. Decide on Length & Width: Measure your dining table. Add about 12 inches to the length for overhang. Standard width is 14–18 inches.
2. Cut Denim Pieces: Cut denim into strips or rectangles. Use a mix of shades for patchwork or single solid panels for a cleaner look.
3. Arrange the Pieces: Lay strips in a line until you reach your desired length.
4. Sew Strips Together: Sew each strip edge-to-edge, right sides facing. Press seams flat with an iron.
5. Hem the Edges: Fold under ½ inch on each side and stitch to prevent fraying.

This simple DIY elevates everyday meals and adds character to your table settings.

Coasters

Denim coasters are quick, easy, and endlessly creative. They make excellent gifts or beginner projects. Using jean pockets or seams as design details adds personality while protecting your furniture from hot or cold drinks.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans
• Scissors
• Cardboard circle template (about 4 inches across)
• Needle & thread or sewing machine
• Felt or cork backing (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Cut Circles: Trace circles onto denim using a cardboard template and cut them out. For square coasters, use 4×4 inch panels.
2. Add Backing: If desired, glue or sew felt/cork onto the back for thickness and grip.
3. Sew Edges: Sew around the perimeter with a zigzag stitch or blanket stitch to prevent fraying.
4. Decorate: Use pockets, seams, or embroidery to add unique details.

Quick to make, stylish, and eco-friendly these are perfect rainy-day crafts.

Storage Bins

Turn jeans into sturdy storage bins for toys, office supplies, or craft materials. Denim is strong enough to hold structure, making these practical and stylish organizers.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans (2–3 pairs per bin)
• Fabric scissors
• Stiff interfacing or cardboard (for structure)
• Sewing machine or hand needle & thread
• Pins or clips
• Optional: leather scraps or ribbon for handles

How to Make It:

1. Measure & Cut Panels: Decide on the size of your bin. Cut 5 denim panels (4 sides + base) the same size, allowing ½ inch seam allowance.
2. Reinforce: For sturdiness, cut interfacing or cardboard to match panels and attach with fabric glue or sew in.
3. Assemble the Bin: Sew panels together with right sides facing, forming a cube. Turn inside out to hide seams.
4. Add Handles: Stitch on leather or ribbon handles for easy carrying.
5. Finishing Touches: Topstitch around the edges for a polished look.

These bins are great for shelves, desks, or closets and make clutter look chic.

Chair Cushions

Give your kitchen or dining room chairs new life with durable denim cushions. The thick fabric makes for long-lasting seat covers that are easy to remove and wash plus, they add rustic farmhouse charm to your table setting.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans (2–3 pairs per cushion)
• Foam or cushion inserts (chair-sized)
• Scissors & measuring tape
• Sewing machine or needle & strong thread
• Velcro strips or ties for securing cushions

How to Make It:

1. Measure Your Chair Seat: Use measuring tape to determine the width and depth. Add 1 inch on all sides for seam allowance.
2. Cut Denim Panels: Cut two panels (front & back) to fit your cushion insert. Mix light and dark washes for a patchwork look.
3. Sew the Panels Together: Place panels right sides together, sew around three sides, then insert your foam.
4. Secure the Opening: Close the final side with Velcro, a zipper, or simple hand stitching.
5. Add Ties or Straps: Sew on fabric ties or Velcro straps to fasten the cushion to your chair.

These handmade cushions are durable, washable, and stylish perfect for everyday family use.

Pot Holders & Oven Mitts

Sturdy denim makes fantastic potholders and oven mitts. With extra padding, they protect your hands from heat while adding a rustic, homey vibe to your kitchen.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans (preferably thicker denim)
• Heat-resistant batting (or layers of old towels)
• Fabric scissors
• Sewing machine or hand needle & thread
• Pins or clips
• Bias tape (optional for edging)

How to Make It:

1. Cut Your Shapes: Trace a square (7×7 inches) for potholders or a mitten shape for oven mitts. Cut two denim layers and two batting layers for each.
2. Layer & Pin: Sandwich batting between denim layers. Pin or clip edges together.
3. Quilt the Layers: Sew diagonal lines across the square or mitten to secure the batting in place.
4. Sew the Edges: Stitch around the perimeter, then bind with bias tape or fold edges under.
5. Add Hanging Loops: Use denim strips or ribbon to make loops for easy hanging.

Not only practical, these also make thoughtful handmade gifts for family and friends.

Curtains or Valances

Denim curtains or valances give your kitchen, laundry, or craft room a casual, farmhouse touch. They’re washable, durable, and look great in rustic or boho-style homes.

Shopping List:

• Several old jeans
• Fabric scissors & rotary cutter (affiliate)
• Sewing machine or hand needle & thread
• Measuring tape
• Curtain rod & clips or rings

How to Make It:

1. Measure Your Window: Decide on the length and width of your curtain or valance. Add 2 inches on all sides for hems.
2. Cut Denim Panels: Use jean legs or large squares for your panels. For a patchwork style, cut multiple rectangles in varied shades.
3. Assemble Panels: Sew panels together until they match your window’s width.
4. Hem the Edges: Fold ½ inch twice along all sides and stitch for a clean finish.
5. Attach to Rod: Create a casing at the top for the rod, or use clip rings for easy hanging.

These look amazing with farmhouse kitchens and bring a fresh, handmade vibe into your space.

Denim Tote Bag

Sturdy denim totes are a fantastic way to repurpose jeans into something useful. They’re strong enough for groceries, books, or everyday essentials, and the pocket details make them stylish and functional.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans (2 pairs for extra material)
• Scissors & measuring tape
• Sewing machine or heavy-duty needle & thread
• Lining fabric (optional)
• Straps (use denim, rope, or leather)
• Pins or clips

How to Make It:

1. Cut Bag Panels: Cut two large rectangles (15×18 inches) from jeans. Use the thigh or leg panels for size.
2. Add Pockets: Stitch back pockets from jeans onto the front panel for added storage.
3. Sew the Body: Place panels right sides together, sew around the sides and bottom, leaving the top open.
4. Box the Corners (Optional): Fold and stitch corners for a flat-bottom bag.
5. Add Straps: Sew denim strips, rope, or leather straps securely to the top edges.

With just a few steps, you’ll have a stylish, eco-friendly tote bag that’s as unique as the jeans it came from. Get the complete instruction with helpful tips in my article DIY Jean Tote Bag: How to Turn Old Jeans into a tote bag!

Crossbody Purse or Clutch

A crossbody purse or clutch from old jeans makes a fun fashion statement. It’s compact, practical, and can be dressed up with embellishments like buttons, embroidery, or beads.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans
• Scissors & sewing machine (or needle & strong thread)
• Magnetic snap or button closure
• Lining fabric (optional)
• Strap material (denim braid, leather, or rope)
• Pins or clips

How to Make It:

1. Cut Your Base: Cut two matching rectangles from denim (about 10×7 inches). Use the back pocket as the front flap for extra flair.
2. Add Lining (Optional): Cut matching fabric pieces for the inside and sew them to denim panels.
3. Sew the Body: Place panels right sides together, sew around sides and bottom, leaving top open.
4. Add Closure: Attach a magnetic snap, button, or Velcro to keep the purse closed.
5. Attach Strap: Braid denim strips, use leather, or repurpose a belt as your crossbody strap. Sew securely to the bag’s sides.

This project is great for beginners looking to try bag-making stylish, functional, and entirely one-of-a-kind.

Wallet or Coin Purse

A small wallet or coin purse is one of the quickest denim upcycles you can make. Sturdy, compact, and stylish, it’s perfect for holding coins, cards, or other small essentials.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans (pockets work great for this)
• Small zipper (4–6 inches)
• Scissors & measuring tape
• Sewing machine or hand needle & strong thread
• Pins or clips

How to Make It:

1. Cut Your Panels: Cut two rectangles of denim (about 5×4 inches). If using a back pocket, cut around it to form one panel.
2. Attach the Zipper: Place zipper face down along the top edge of one panel, sew, then repeat with the other panel.
3. Sew the Body: With right sides facing, stitch around the three remaining sides.
4. Turn Right Side Out: Flip the purse inside out through the zipper opening.
5. Finish Edges (Optional): Topstitch around the top for reinforcement.

These make excellent gifts and are a great way to use even small denim scraps.

Apron

An apron made from jeans is both practical and fun. Whether you’re cooking, gardening, or painting, the built-in pockets make it incredibly handy.

Shopping List:

• One old pair of jeans
• Scissors
• Needle & thread or sewing machine
• Fabric ties or ribbon for the waist and neck

How to Make It:

1. Cut the Base: Lay jeans flat and cut straight across just below the zipper. This becomes the body of your apron.
2. Shape the Apron: Cut away the back of the jeans, leaving the front (with pockets and zipper) intact.
3. Add Neck Strap: Attach a strip of denim, ribbon, or webbing to each top corner.
4. Add Waist Ties: Stitch straps to each side of the apron at waist level.
5. Optional Touches: Hem the edges or leave them frayed for a rustic look.

This project makes a strong, stylish apron you’ll use for years.

Belt or Headband

Braided belts and headbands are easy, no-sew projects that repurpose long strips of denim. They add a casual, creative touch to outfits or hairstyles and can be customized with embellishments.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans
• Scissors
• Hot glue or needle & thread (optional)
• Beads, buttons, or charms (optional for decoration)

How to Make It:

1. Cut Strips: Cut 3 long strips of denim, about 1–2 inches wide. For belts, make them extra long.
2. Secure the Start: Knot the strips together at one end. Pin it to a pillow or tape it down to keep steady.
3. Braid the Strips: Braid tightly until you reach the desired length.
4. Finish Ends: Knot or sew the ends to secure. For belts, add a buckle or simply tie. For headbands, sew elastic to the ends for stretch.
5. Optional Embellishments: Add beads or buttons for a unique touch.

This is a quick, beginner-friendly project that works especially well for kids and teens.

Bracelets or Cuffs

Denim bracelets and cuffs are trendy and easy to make. They’re fun fashion statements that can be customized endlessly with stitching, snaps, or embellishments.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans (cuffs or seams work best)
• Scissors
• Needle & thread or sewing machine
• Snaps, Velcro, or buttons for closure
• Optional: beads, lace, or embroidery thread

How to Make It:

1. Cut Your Band: Cut a strip of denim to fit around your wrist (plus 1 inch for closure). Use thick seams or hems for sturdiness.
2. Finish Edges: Sew or glue edges to prevent fraying, unless you want a raw, distressed look.
3. Add Closure: Sew on Velcro, snaps, or a button with a buttonhole.
4. Decorate: Embroider flowers, stitch on beads, or glue lace trim for style.

Each bracelet is unique, making this project a great craft for parties or handmade gifts.

Hair Scrunchies

Denim scrunchies are both durable and stylish, adding a playful twist to any hairstyle. This beginner-friendly project is a fantastic way to use small scraps of fabric.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans
• ¼ inch elastic (8–9 inches per scrunchie)
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or needle & thread
• Safety pin

How to Make It:

1. Cut Fabric Strip: Cut a piece of denim about 18×3 inches. Thinner denim works best.
2. Sew Tube: Fold the strip lengthwise with right sides together and stitch along the long edge, leaving short ends open.
3. Turn Right Side Out: Use a safety pin to pull the fabric tube right-side out.
4. Insert Elastic: Attach elastic to a safety pin and thread it through the tube. Knot the ends together.
5. Close Ends: Tuck raw edges inside and sew closed by hand or machine.

Make a few in different washes for a fun, matching set.

Keychains

Denim keychains are small but mighty they make great gifts, can be personalized, and use up even the tiniest scraps of fabric. Perfect for beginner sewing or crafting.

Shopping List:

• Denim scraps (seams, pockets, or strips)
• Key rings or clips
• Scissors
• Needle & thread or hot glue
• Optional: charms, beads, or embroidery floss

How to Make It:

1. Choose a Style: Decide if you want a braided strip, a stuffed shape (like a heart), or a simple pocket keychain.
2. Cut Fabric: For braids, cut three strips. For shapes, cut two identical pieces (like hearts).
3. Assemble: Braid strips and attach to a key ring. For shapes, sew two layers together, stuffing lightly before closing.
4. Attach Hardware: Loop or stitch denim securely around a key ring.
5. Optional Decor: Add embroidery, beads, or charms for flair.

These are quick to make in batches and ideal for handmade gifts or party favors.

Stuffed Toys

Denim is a surprisingly great material for stuffed toys. It’s durable, washable, and gives toys a cute, rustic look. Perfect for gifting to kids or even making keepsakes.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans
• Scissors
• Stuffing (polyfill or fabric scraps)
• Sewing machine or hand needle & strong thread
• Buttons, embroidery thread, or felt for details

How to Make It:

1. Choose a Pattern: Download or draw a simple pattern (like a bear, bunny, or whale).
2. Cut Fabric: Cut two identical pieces of denim for each body part.
3. Assemble: Place pieces right sides together and sew, leaving a small gap for stuffing.
4. Stuff the Toy: Fill with polyfill or scraps until plump.
5. Close the Gap: Hand stitch the opening securely.
6. Add Features: Sew on button eyes, embroider faces, or glue felt ears.

This is a rewarding project, especially if you want to create a keepsake from well-loved jeans.

Doll Clothes

Old jeans are perfect for making doll clothes. The sturdy fabric holds its shape, and tiny details like pockets make them extra adorable.

Shopping List:

• Denim scraps
• Needle & thread or sewing machine
• Velcro, snaps, or tiny buttons (affiliate)
• Scissors
• Doll clothing patterns (printable or hand-drawn)

How to Make It:

1. Choose Patterns: Look for simple doll clothes patterns (skirts, pants, overalls).
2. Cut Fabric: Use denim scraps, making sure to cut small pieces carefully.
3. Sew Pieces Together: Stitch seams by hand or machine. For smaller items, hand sewing is easier.
4. Add Closures: Use Velcro or snaps so kids can easily dress dolls.
5. Optional Details: Keep tiny pockets or hem edges for extra charm.

This project is great for kids learning to sew, or for adults making special keepsakes.

Pet Bed Cover

Denim is strong and washable, making it perfect for pet bed covers. Your furry friend will love the comfort, and you’ll love the durability.

Shopping List:

• Several pairs of old jeans
• Sewing machine or heavy-duty needle & thread
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Cushion insert or old pet bed stuffing

How to Make It:

1. Measure Your Bed: Measure your pet bed or decide on a size for a new one.
2. Cut Denim Panels: Cut large rectangles or squares from jeans. For patchwork, use mixed shades.
3. Assemble Panels: Sew panels together until you have a large top and bottom piece.
4. Sew the Cover: Place pieces right sides together, sew around edges, leaving one side open.
5. Insert Cushion & Close: Insert stuffing or cushion, then sew or Velcro the opening shut.

This makes a pet bed cover that can stand up to claws, washing, and everyday use.

Dog Toys

Denim dog toys are durable and safe when made from 100% cotton jeans. They’re great for tugging, chewing, or fetching and they save money on store-bought toys.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans
• Scissors
• Needle & thread (for stuffed toys)
• Stuffing (optional, for shapes like bones)

How to Make It:

1. Braided Tug Toy: Cut 3 long strips of denim, braid tightly, and knot each end.
2. Knotted Toy: Cut a wide strip, roll it into a rope, and tie knots along the length.
3. Stuffed Bone: Cut two bone shapes, sew together leaving an opening, stuff, then close securely.
4. Safety Check: Make sure stitching is tight and no small parts (like buttons) can come loose.

Simple, eco-friendly, and pup-approved!

Kids’ Art Smocks

Repurpose old jeans into art smocks that protect kids’ clothes during painting, cooking, or messy play. They’re durable, washable, and come with handy built-in pockets.

Shopping List:

• 1–2 pairs of old jeans
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or hand needle & strong thread
• Ribbon or fabric ties for neck and waist
• Pins or clips

How to Make It:

1. Cut the Base: Cut one pant leg open and lay flat. Shape it into a rectangle that covers from shoulder to mid-thigh of your child.
2. Add Pockets: Use jean back pockets and stitch them onto the front of the smock.
3. Hem the Edges: Fold over the raw edges ½ inch and stitch to prevent fraying.
4. Attach Straps: Sew ribbon ties at the shoulders and sides so the smock can be tied around the neck and waist.
5. Finish: Try on and adjust fit as needed.

These are practical, fun, and make great gifts for little artists.

Reusable Grocery Bags

Strong and eco-friendly, denim grocery bags are a stylish alternative to plastic. They can hold heavy items, last for years, and save money while reducing waste.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans (2–3 pairs for one bag)
• Sewing machine or heavy-duty needle & thread
• Scissors & measuring tape
• Straps (denim, rope, or webbing)
• Pins or clips

How to Make It:

1. Cut Bag Panels: Cut two large rectangles of denim (approx. 16×18 inches).
2. Add Pockets (Optional): Sew jean pockets onto the front for storage.
3. Sew the Body: Place panels right sides together, sew around sides and bottom.
4. Reinforce Corners: Double-stitch bottom corners to handle heavy loads.
5. Attach Straps: Sew strong handles at the top. Test weight capacity before using.

These bags are perfect for weekly grocery trips or as stylish everyday totes.

Phone or Tablet Sleeve

Protect your phone or tablet with a sturdy denim sleeve. The fabric provides cushioning and a casual, stylish look, while a soft lining keeps screens scratch-free.

Shopping List:

• Denim scraps
• Soft lining fabric (felt, flannel, or fleece)
• Button, Velcro, or zipper for closure
• Scissors & measuring tape
• Sewing machine or needle & thread

How to Make It:

1. Measure Device: Add 1 inch to length and width for seam allowance.
2. Cut Fabric: Cut two denim panels and two lining panels.
3. Sew Outer & Lining: Sew denim panels together, then lining panels together, leaving tops open.
4. Combine Layers: Insert lining into denim cover, wrong sides together.
5. Add Closure: Stitch on a flap with button, Velcro, or zipper.

This is a sleek and functional way to upcycle denim into something useful every day.

Tool Belt or Garden Pouch

Turn old jeans into a sturdy tool belt or garden pouch. The pockets are already built in perfect for keeping essentials close at hand while working on DIY projects or gardening.

Shopping List:

• 1 pair of old jeans
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or hand needle & strong thread
• Ribbon, twill tape, or denim strips (for waist ties)

How to Make It:

1. Cut the Base: Cut across the jeans just below the zipper, leaving the waistband and front/back pockets intact.
2. Trim the Shape: Remove excess denim from the back so it lies flat.
3. Add Waist Ties: Attach long strips of fabric or ribbon to the sides of the waistband.
4. Reinforce Pockets: Double-stitch pocket edges to ensure durability.
5. Optional Touches: Add extra pockets from the legs for tools or seed packets.

This pouch is durable, washable, and ideal for makers, crafters, and gardeners.

Denim Quilt or Blanket

A denim quilt or blanket is the ultimate upcycling project. It’s warm, durable, and endlessly customizable. Perfect as a family keepsake or rustic addition to your home.

Shopping List:

• 8–10 pairs of old jeans (depending on quilt size)
• Scissors & rotary cutter
• Sewing machine & heavy-duty thread
• Backing fabric (flannel or fleece)
• Batting (optional for warmth)
• Pins or clips

How to Make It:

1. Cut Denim Squares: Cut 6×6 inch squares (or smaller for patchwork). Use a rotary cutter for speed and accuracy.
2. Arrange Layout: Lay pieces out on the floor, mixing shades for contrast.
3. Sew Rows: Sew squares into rows, then stitch rows together to form the quilt top.
4. Add Backing: Place quilt top, batting, and backing fabric together. Pin securely.
5. Quilt & Finish: Sew across layers in straight lines, then bind edges with bias tape or denim strips.

This heirloom-style project makes a blanket that will last for decades.

Fabric Planter Covers

Give your plain plant pots a rustic upgrade by wrapping them in denim covers. It’s an easy way to dress up terra-cotta, plastic, or even metal pots while adding farmhouse charm.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans
• Scissors
• Hot glue gun (affiliate) or needle & thread
• Measuring tape
• Optional: pockets, lace trim, or buttons for embellishment

How to Make It:

1. Measure the Pot: Measure the height and circumference of your pot. Add 1 inch for seam allowance.
2. Cut Denim Panel: Cut a rectangle from jeans to fit your pot’s size.
3. Wrap & Secure: Wrap denim around the pot, overlap edges, and glue or stitch in place.
4. Finish Edges: Fold under or leave frayed for a rustic look.
5. Decorate: Add a pocket, lace trim, or button detail for personality.

These covers are washable, reusable, and instantly transform your greenery.

Book Covers

Protect your journals, notebooks, or textbooks with stylish denim covers. They’re durable, washable, and give any book a rustic, handmade look.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans
• Scissors
• Needle & thread or sewing machine
• Measuring tape
• Optional: pockets or elastic

How to Make It:

1. Measure the Book: Open the book flat and measure length, width, and spine. Add 2 inches to each side.
2. Cut Denim Panel: Cut one large rectangle of denim to fit.
3. Create Flaps: Fold in about 2 inches on each short side to make flaps that slide over the book’s covers. Sew in place.
4. Slip On Book: Slide book covers into the flaps to hold the cover securely.
5. Optional Pocket: Stitch on a pocket from jeans to hold pens or notes.

This is a perfect beginner sewing project that combines style with practicality.

Picnic Blanket Backing

Add strength and style to any picnic blanket by backing it with denim. The heavy fabric keeps it durable, and patchwork adds personality.

Shopping List:

• Several old jeans
• Picnic blanket top fabric (cotton or flannel)
• Sewing machine & heavy-duty thread
• Scissors & rotary cutter
• Measuring tape

How to Make It:

1. Cut Denim Squares: Cut multiple squares or rectangles to cover the same size as your blanket top.
2. Assemble Denim Backing: Sew pieces together into one large panel.
3. Layer Fabrics: Place blanket top and denim backing right sides together. Sew around edges, leaving a gap.
4. Turn & Finish: Turn blanket right-side out, press flat, and topstitch edges.
5. Optional Quilting: Stitch across layers in rows for extra durability.

You’ll have a picnic blanket that’s both beautiful and built to last.

Shoe Organizer

Old jeans can easily become a clever hanging shoe or accessory organizer. Strong fabric means the pockets hold up well, and you can customize the size for your needs.

Shopping List:

• 3–4 pairs of old jeans
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or hand needle & strong thread
• Backing fabric (sturdy cotton or canvas)
• Wooden dowel or hanger for hanging

How to Make It:

1. Prepare Pockets: Cut jean legs into long panels, then cut them into pocket-sized sections. Use back pockets for extra depth.
2. Attach Pockets: Lay pockets on your backing fabric and sew along the bottom and sides, leaving the top open.
3. Assemble Rows: Add multiple rows of pockets to fit as many shoes as you need.
4. Finish Top Edge: Fold over the top of the backing to form a casing for a dowel or hanger.
5. Hang & Use: Place behind a door, on a wall, or in a closet.

A budget-friendly and stylish way to stay organized.

Patch Material

Perhaps the simplest but most practical repurpose save old denim as patching material. Perfect for mending other jeans, jackets, or even quilts.

Shopping List:

• Old jeans (varied thicknesses)
• Scissors
• Needle & thread or sewing machine
• Iron-on patch backing (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Cut Scraps: Cut flat sections from old jeans knees, thighs, and backs of legs work best.
2. Sort by Shade: Keep a mix of light, medium, and dark denim for matching repairs.
3. Store Neatly: Stack or keep in a container for easy access.
4. Use as Needed: When jeans rip, cut a patch slightly larger than the hole. Stitch or iron in place.
5. Optional Detail: Add embroidery or visible stitching for a decorative patch look.

This is the no-waste solution always handy for quick fixes and crafts.

Rug or Floor Mat

A denim rug is sturdy, washable, and perfect for kitchens, entryways, or kids’ spaces. The mix of denim shades gives it a unique, textured look.

Shopping List:

• Several old jeans
• Scissors
• Thread & heavy-duty needle/sewing machine
• Non-slip rug pad (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Cut jeans into long strips.
2. Braid the strips together tightly.
3. Coil braid into a circle or oval, stitching as you go.
4. Add more strips until the rug is the size you want.

Wrapping Up

Old jeans don’t have to go to waste. With these projects, you can turn them into something useful, beautiful, and totally unique. Whether you make a rug, tote bag, or simple coasters, every piece tells a story and keeps fabric out of the landfill. Next time you’re about to part with a pair, think of all the creative possibilities waiting in those denim scraps.