25+ Genius Ways to Reuse & Upcycle Old Denim Jeans – That are Actually Useful!

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I am one that will wear my jeans until the very end… or until I’ve rubbed the thigh area through!

Even then, I keep them stashed away for another day. But, instead of throwing out my worn-out jeans, why not upcycle them into something unique and useful?

Not everyone has a sewing machine (or knows how to sew), but that shouldn’t stop you from crafting! And denim is durable, stylish, and perfect for DIY crafts and projects, such as:

  • no-sew projects – to repurpose jeans effortlessly
  • home decor – create functional & stylish home décor
  • fashion accessories – turn old jeans into stylish and practical accessories with these fun projects:
  • wearable crafts – why throw away your jeans when you can reuse jeans in fashion-forward ways?

Here are 25 fun and practical jean crafts to help you recycle old jeans and give them a new life.

 

1. Frayed Denim Coasters

Cut squares, fray the edges, and glue layers together for absorbent coasters.

2. Denim Plant Holders & Planters

Wrap old jeans around plant pots for a rustic touch.

3. Oven Mitts

Denim is heat-resistant, making it perfect for DIY oven mitts.

 

4. Hanging Organizers –

Use jean pockets to make a wall organizer for tools, makeup, or craft supplies. Or, cut out jean back pockets and attach them to a board for stylish storage.

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5. Stockings

 

6. Rustic Denim Placemats

Patchwork denim placemats add a farmhouse feel to your dining table.

 

 


Don’t forget to grab some DIY crafting essentials! Check out my crafting supplies store with these items AND MORE at DIY Upcycle Crafts Supplies >

DIY craft supplies Upcycle Jeans Denim Reuse Recycle sewing

 


7. Recycled Denim Wallet

Sew together small denim pieces to craft a sturdy wallet.

8. Upcycled Denim Purses & Bags

Use jean legs or pockets to create stylish totes, crossbody bags, or clutches.

 

9. Denim Keychains

Cut out small denim shapes, glue or sew the edges, and attach a keyring.

   

10. Denim Rugs

Braid or weave denim strips to make a sturdy and stylish rug.

11. Book Covers & Journal Wraps

Protect your books with custom denim covers.

12. DIY Denim Skirt

Cut and sew an old pair of jeans into a stylish new skirt.

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13. Denim Art Smock & Aprons

Cut an old pair of jeans into an apron for cooking, grilling, or gardening. Perfect for kids and artists, cut and hem an oversized denim shirt for a durable smock.

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14. Upcycle to New Clothes

Upcycle jeans with designs and into new shirts by adding embroidery and combining multi-shirt types into new fashion options.

15. DIY Hair Scrunchies

Use an elastic band and glue to create a trendy scrunchie.

 

16. Jean Belt

Braid denim strips together to create a fashionable belt.

17. Tic Tac Toe Game

18. Tool Holder

19. Earings

 


Check these crafting supplies AND MORE at DIY Upcycle Crafts Supplies >

DIY craft supplies Upcycle Jeans Denim Reuse Recycle sewing

 


20. Foot Stool or Floor Cushions

 

21. Blankets

 

22. Bracelets

 

23. Gift Bags

 

24. Picture Frame

25. Ornaments & Gifts

            

 

 


Why It’s Great To Recycle Old Jeans

Every year, millions of jeans end up in landfills. By choosing to recycle jeans, you’re:

  • helping the environment
  • reducing textile waste (!! so important!!)
  • saving money (with new practical uses & gifts)
  • keeping yourself creative

Instead of throwing away your old jeans, try one (or more) of these amazing jeans ideas today. You’ll not only save money but also create unique, one-of-a-kind items that you can use, gift, or sell.

Have you tried any jean crafts? Share your favorite projects in the comments!

 

~~ As always friends, take care, be kind to yourself and others, and always keep learning to be better and do better.

 


Items mentioned in this article:

*I sometimes use affiliate links on our site for items I use, recommend, and love. The links are free for you to use and it helps support my site by providing a commission for the recommendation. I greatly appreciate you clicking on any recommended links I provide.*

 


Items from this article:

Go directly to my full list on my Amazon storefront with ALL MY FAVORITE THINGS! >

View all my DIY jeans store at DIY Upcycle Crafts Supplies >

 

DIY craft supplies Upcycle Jeans Denim Reuse Recycle sewing

View all our DIY crafts and decor ideas at DIY Crafting Essentials >

 


Or check out my Spring Decor ->

 

 

 


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2 Comments

  1. Looks so nice, you are amazing!

    1. Thanks!! I hope you try one and let me know how it worked out! 🙂

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