Denim never goes out of style. From classic durable jeans to vintage denim jackets, denim is here to stay. But those worn out jeans that you can’t wear anymore obtained go. Instead of throwing the once-loved garment in the trash, try recycling jeans into something new.
Recycled clothing turns your old fashion pieces into something completely new and keeps the waste out of the landfill. Additionally, denim is one of the least durable fabrics, requiring a significant amount of resources like water and dyed and chemically treated cotton.
Recycled denim prevents unsustainable fabrics from being thrown away and reduces the demand for new and raw denim. Here’s how to recycle jeans to give them a new life.
11 fun ways to recycle jeans
1. Cut shorts
Sunshine and warm weather are right around the corner, so it’s time to swap your winter wardrobe for a summer wardrobe. If you’re not ready to part with your favorite pair of jeans, you don’t have to.
You can turn old jeans into shorts using our step-by-step DIY denim shorts. And the leftover denim can be used for something else on this list!
2. Denim Coasters
This DIY uses the pockets of your old jeans to make coasters! Cut a circle in the center of the back pockets of the jeans to start and rip the seams to create frayed edges.
When you’re done, you’ll have the perfect coaster set for your home. They also make a fun and interesting housewarming gift!
3. Bedside Pocket Organizer
This bedside pocket organizer is perfect for everyone. If you have young children who like to sleep next to their favorite stuffed animal or bedtime story, this pocket organizer using the back pockets of your jeans will surely come in handy.
This organizer is even perfect for college students with loft dorm beds. It can hold gadgets, wires, really anything they might need.
4. Denim bookmark
Most book lovers will tell you not to scratch the corners of your book pages to hold your place. Instead of folding the page, make a denim bookmark so you don’t lose your place!
These denim bookmarks are easy to make and super customizable. Plus, they’re the perfect gift for your book-loving friends.
5. Recycled Denim Planter
Add to your indoor plant collection? Try these denim plant holders, made from denim seams or hems and old tin cans of all sizes.
This support is perfect for succulents because they don’t require a lot of water. They can be planted directly in the box. Additionally, these denim-covered boxes can also be used to hold pens, office supplies, or utensils.
6. Recycled Denim Tote Bag
Canvas bags seem to be the latest trend, so why not think outside the box? With this DIY, you can make your own tote bag using old jeans! And you can even personalize the tote using iron-on fabrics.
7. DIY Recycled Denim Necklace
The possibilities of making your own denim jewelry are unending. You can make earrings, bracelets, and even this necklace!
This tutorial uses the hem of old jeans. You can also use an old necklace as a base. Check local thrift stores for jewelry to bring this piece to life.
8. Denim Wall Hanging
Need to spruce up your walls? Try a DIY wall decoration! This tutorial uses the pocket details on a pair of denim jeans.
You can use any part of your jeans to create this piece. If your jeans have any fun designs or patterns, feel free to turn them into a piece of art for your home. You can also embroider a pattern on the denim.
9. Jean Patchwork Bowl
To make this bowl, try mixing and matching different pieces of denim. Take lightly faded jeans and a true blue and combine the colors to create this patchwork bowl.
You can make the bowl any size you want. And it’s perfect for holding trinkets like jewelry, keys, or makeup.
10. DIY Denim Shoulder Bag
Looking for something smaller than a tote to carry your necessities? Try making this shoulder bag using your old jeans!
It’s perfect for carrying your keys, cash and phone. And you can even recycle old leather for the strap.
11. DIY Denim Pouch
This pouch is versatile. It can be used as a pencil case, cosmetic bag, bracelet and more! And it’s easily customizable – try adding different fabrics inside or use different jeans for patchwork.
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