From Trash to Treasure: 27 Upcycled Denim DIYs to Try Today

Don’t toss those old jeans—transform them into something cute and creative instead! From DIY bags and patchwork pillows to upcycled baby clothes and boho home decor, these denim projects are easy, stylish, and totally adorable. 👖✨ #UpcycledDenim #DIYProjects #RepurposeJeans

How to Turn Old Denim into Something New (and Totally Adorable)

There’s something special about denim—it’s one of those fabrics that only gets better with time. That perfect fade, those soft worn-in patches, the frayed hems from years of love… why toss it out when you could turn it into something new and fabulous?

Upcycling denim is more than just a fun creative project—it’s a smart, sustainable way to give old clothes a second chance. With the fashion industry being one of the biggest polluters on the planet, reusing what we already have is a small but powerful way to help reduce waste. Instead of buying more, we can make more—right from the things already sitting in our closets.

And here’s the fun part: denim is tough. It’s built to last, which makes it one of the best materials for DIY projects. Whether you’re transforming a pair of jeans into a tote bag, adding embroidery to a jacket, or turning scraps into cute little coasters, you’ll find that denim holds its shape, adds texture, and plays really nicely with all kinds of creative touches.

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👖 Where to Find Denim to Upcycle

You don’t need to go far (or spend anything!) to get started:

• Your own closet is always the best place to begin. Dig out those jeans with the ripped knees, the jacket that shrunk in the wash, or that skirt you haven’t worn in five years but can’t quite part with. Boom—free supplies.
• Thrift stores are full of hidden denim gems. Look for oversized jackets, men’s jeans (great for bags or aprons), or anything with interesting seams or vintage washes.
• Garage sales and charity shops are also great for scoring denim pieces for next to nothing—and the more worn in, the better. Soft, distressed denim is ideal for projects that need a little flexibility.
• Ask around. Chances are your friends or family have a pair or two they’d be happy to donate to your crafty cause. One group text and you’ll probably have a denim mountain to play with.

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🧵 Tips for Sewing and DIYing with Denim

Okay, real talk—denim can be a little bossy to work with. But with the right prep, it’s totally worth it:

• Use a heavy-duty needle. Regular sewing needles will bend or break, especially if you’re working with thicker denim or layering it. Look for needles labeled “denim” or “jeans” at the craft store.
• Take it slow. Especially near seams or layered areas. Your machine will thank you—and your project will turn out cleaner.
• Clip, don’t pin. Denim can be bulky, and clips are often easier to use when holding things in place.
• Pre-wash and press. Give your denim a good wash and press before starting. It removes any grime or stiffness and helps with cutting and stitching accuracy.
• Start simple. If you’re new to sewing, go for a beginner-friendly project like a no-sew headband, frayed-edge bookmarks, or patching up a tote bag. You don’t need a degree in fashion design to make something cool!

➡️ This way for more Tips for Sewing with Denim (without breaking your needle!)

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💡 Little Extras That Make a Big Difference

If you want to take your upcycled denim project to the next level, here are a few creative touches that add major charm:

• Add embroidery. A little stitching—like a flower, star, or even a name—makes it feel extra special.
• Use contrasting thread. Bright colors really pop against blue denim and give your project that “made with love” vibe.
• Mix materials. Denim looks amazing paired with lace, canvas, burlap, flannel, or leather scraps.
• Decorate with patches, tassels, or buttons. Use what you have on hand and let the creativity flow. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be fabulous.

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Whether you’re turning jeans into a boho-style bag, making coasters out of pockets, or patching up a well-loved jacket, there’s something extra rewarding about creating something beautiful from what would’ve ended up in the bin.

So before you toss that old pair of jeans—wait! You might just be holding your next favorite DIY.

Don’t miss our other upcycled crafts and denim DIY projects!

Check out these upcycled denim projects

Ready to get inspired? Here are 27 brilliant upcycled denim DIYs to try today—some easy, some more advanced, but all totally creative and fun.

Use old denim jeans to recover an armchair

If you’ve ever thought about tossing out your old jeans, this chair might just change your mind. I mean—look at it! It’s a whole denim village wrapped around an armchair, and somehow it works beautifully. The different shades and seams of the denim give it so much texture, and that little cityscape detail stitched into the backrest? Absolute genius.

Projects like this are perfect when you want to make something truly one-of-a-kind. Even if you’re not ready to recover a whole chair, you could borrow the idea and use it on a cushion or a stool to start small. Denim is sturdy, forgiving, and full of character—basically the dream fabric for upcyclers with a little imagination and a pile of old jeans.

Use colorful embroidery threads to sprinkle sunflowers all over the back of your jacket.

Okay but—how gorgeous is this? That sea of tiny embroidered flowers looks like a wildflower meadow just exploded across the back of this jacket (in the best possible way). The mix of stitches and colors gives it so much movement and texture, it’s basically wearable art. And don’t even get me started on the tiny sunflowers—they’re like little drops of sunshine!

This is such a lovely way to breathe new life into a plain or thrifted denim jacket. Even if you’re not an embroidery pro, you could start with a little cluster of blooms on one shoulder or the pocket and build from there. It’s one of those slow, soothing projects you can do in front of your favorite show—and you’ll end up with something totally unique.

Upcycle your old denim into this gorgeous whale that would make a great gift for an ocean-loving child.

How adorable is this denim whale? It’s soft, squishy, and stylish in the most understated way. The two-tone effect from using different shades of old jeans gives it that realistic ocean-y feel—and that little stitched eye is just the cutest finishing touch. Whether it’s for a child who’s obsessed with sea creatures or just a sweet handmade decor piece, this whale is full of charm.

This is one of those projects that looks super impressive but is actually really beginner-friendly once you get going. If you’ve got a stack of old jeans and a bit of time, it’s well worth giving it a go. And don’t worry if you’ve never made a soft toy before—there’s a full tutorial to help you through each step.

You’ll need to collect a few jean pockets for this denim upcycle project, but the end result is something stylish and functional.

Is this not the cutest little organizer you’ve ever seen? It’s like your jeans got a second chance at life and decided to become super helpful. This clever wall hanger is made entirely from old jean pockets, and it’s perfect for holding all your crafty bits—pens, scissors, glue sticks, rogue washi tape that keeps disappearing…

To make one yourself, just cut out the pockets from a few pairs of jeans (back pockets work best) and sew or glue them onto a sturdy backing—we’re talking more denim, canvas, or even an old tea towel if you’re feeling scrappy. Add a hanger at the top (bonus points if it’s a wooden one), and you’ve got a super stylish upcycled storage solution that’s as handy as it is fun to make.

Follow this tutorial to find out how to repurpose old denim into a cottagecore chic chair cover.

This might just be the prettiest way to give an old chair (and your jeans) a second life. That sweet little bird design paired with the rustic texture of worn denim gives off total handmade-with-love vibes. It’s the kind of piece that looks straight out of a storybook cottage—and honestly, who wouldn’t want that charm at their breakfast table?

What’s great about this project is that you don’t need fancy tools or skills to make it happen—just a pair of scissors, some staples, and a little patience. The full how-to is linked above, so if you’ve got a chair that needs a glow-up, this is a lovely one to try. Bonus points if you add your own personal design to the denim for that extra special touch.

This gorgeous DIY Christmas tree is made from the belt loops, hems and seams of repurposed jeans. Leave them plain or decorate them for Christmas.

How fun are these? Honestly, I’d leave these little denim trees up all winter long. They’re made from the leftover bits we usually toss—belt loops, seams, hems—layered up into the cutest little Christmas forest. And that star on top? Total cherry on the upcycled sundae.

This is such a great scrap-busting project, especially if you’re already cutting up jeans for other crafts. You can keep the trees minimal and rustic, or go full-on jingle bells and add trims, pom-poms, or mini fairy lights. There’s a step-by-step tutorial linked, so if you’re in the mood for a cozy holiday craft, this one’s a winner.

Watch the video to see how to transform a pair of jeans into a denim backpack!

Find out how easy it us to turn your tired, worn out denim into a cute rag rug!

Who knew old jeans could look this vibrant? This rainbow rag rug is an absolute showstopper, and it’s the perfect way to repurpose denim that’s past its prime. Mixed with colorful yarn or fabric strips, the denim adds just the right amount of texture and weight to make the rug sturdy and stylish.

If you’ve got a pile of worn-out jeans and a bit of time to sit and weave, this project is super satisfying. It’s one of those crafts that’s easy to pick up and put down—ideal for slow, cozy evenings. The full tutorial gives you the step-by-step, so if your hallway or kitchen floor needs a splash of color, this might just be your next go-to DIY.

Transform your old denim into a cute tote bag.

This tote is the denim upcycle we didn’t know we needed. Simple, sturdy, and stylish—it’s the kind of bag that works for the farmers’ market, the library, or a trip to the beach. The mix of different washes gives it that cool patchwork feel without trying too hard, and the pocket on the front? Total bonus.

You can find the full tutorial linked above, and it’s a great one to try even if you’re still getting comfy with your sewing machine. A few seams, some straps, and boom—you’ve got a bag that looks like something from a cute little boutique, made entirely from jeans you were probably going to throw out anyway.

I just can’t get enough of these jean pocket organizers!

Okay, but how genius is this? It’s like every pair of jeans you’ve ever owned got together to form the most organized wall in history. From scissors to sticky notes, everything has its own little home—and the best part is, each pocket brings its own character. (That Levi’s patch at the top? Love.)

If your craft room, kitchen, or kid’s desk area could use a bit of order, this is such a smart and stylish fix. The linked tutorial walks you through how to put it together, and it’s honestly a great excuse to finally clean out that jeans drawer. All you need is a backing board and some stitching or glue—and boom, instant upcycled storage.

These gorgeous recycled jeans pillows will brighten up any home. They are made from upcycled denim and have colourful pom poms and sari trim for that boho look.

If your sofa’s feeling a little “meh,” these upcycled denim pillows might be just the thing to jazz it up. The contrast of worn jeans with vibrant sari trim and fluffy pom poms is a total feast for the eyes. Each one feels like a little celebration of color—and they bring serious personality to any space.

They’re a brilliant way to use leftover denim scraps and turn them into something cheerful and comfy. Whether you go bold with bright trims or keep it cool with soft neutrals, this is a great project to experiment with texture and layering. There’s a full tutorial linked, so if you’re itching to make your couch a little more fabulous, you’re covered.

Watch the video to see how to refashion old thrifted jeans into a fabulous bucket bag.

Learn how to make upcycled baby shoes with a free sewing pattern. It’s a great way to reuse and recycle denim for durable fabric shoes!

Could these little denim shoes be any cuter? The frayed edges and classic jean stitching make them feel delightfully handmade, and they’re tough enough to handle a bit of crawling and toe-wiggling too. Plus, if you’ve ever tried to keep socks on a baby… you’ll know soft shoes like these are a lifesaver.

They’re made using scraps of old jeans and a free sewing pattern (linked above), which makes this a budget-friendly and meaningful DIY—especially lovely for baby showers or new-parent gifts. And honestly, it’s a great excuse to finally do something with that pile of too-small denim you’ve been holding onto “just in case.”

Be inspired to turn your old jeans into a GORGEOUS bucket tote bag!

DIY Upcycled Denim Bag Tutorial

Turn an old pair of jeans into a gorgeous, boho-style tote bag with this fun and creative upcycling project! This bag is perfect for carrying everyday essentials while adding a unique, handcrafted touch to your outfit.

✂️ Materials Needed:

• An old pair of jeans
• Fabric scissors
• A sewing machine (or needle and thread)
• Lining fabric (cotton or lace)
• Thick rope or fabric strips for handles
• Hot glue gun or fabric glue
• Embellishments (lace, fabric flowers, beads, pom-poms)

🧵 Steps to Make It:

1️⃣ Cut the Jeans – Cut off the legs of the jeans, leaving the top portion (waistband and pockets) intact. This will form the main body of the bag.

2️⃣ Create the Base – If you want a flat-bottom bag, cut a rectangular piece of denim from the leg fabric and sew it to the bottom of your bag. Otherwise, simply sew the bottom shut.

3️⃣ Add Lining – Cut a piece of fabric the same size as your bag and sew it to the inside for a neat finish. Add lace trim if you like!

4️⃣ Attach Handles – Use thick rope, braided fabric, or old belt straps for handles. Sew or glue them securely to the waistband of the bag.

5️⃣ Decorate – This is where the fun begins! Use hot glue or hand-stitch fabric flowers, beads, and lace onto the bag. Add pom-pom trim to the bottom for a whimsical touch.

6️⃣ Final Touches – Sew or glue any extra details, reinforce the seams, and make sure everything is secure before using your bag.

✨ Enjoy your one-of-a-kind upcycled denim bag! ✨

Grab some old denims and make a stunning circular DIY rug out of them. Follow the tutorial to find all the details and sew your own recycled denim rug.

Talk about making a statement—this circular denim rug is like a patchwork sunburst made from your old jeans! The different shades create a beautiful radiating pattern that’s modern, eye-catching, and full of character. It’s the kind of piece that instantly makes a room feel more creative and cozy.

If you’re up for a little cutting and piecing, the tutorial linked above has everything you need. This is a bigger project for sure, but it’s totally worth the effort—especially if you’ve been saving jeans “for something special.” And once it’s done? You’ll have a handmade floor piece you’ll want to brag about every time someone walks in.

Take a pile of thrifted jeans and turn them into a cute chevron pillow.

This chevron pillow is giving major upcycled glam. Who knew a bunch of thrifted jeans could come together to create something so geometric and elegant? The contrast of dark, mid, and light washes adds so much depth and dimension—and that crisp zigzag pattern makes it look way fancier than it actually is.

If you’re confident with a sewing machine (or just feeling brave), this project is totally doable and super rewarding. It’s a great way to use up those awkward leftover denim scraps, and the end result is a piece that’ll look right at home on any modern couch or reading nook chair. There’s a full how-to linked, so go ahead and give it a go!

Turn an old pair of jeans into a one-of-a-kind denim backpack. It has lots of pockets and can be converted into a crossbody bag.

This backpack might just be the coolest thing to come out of an old pair of jeans. With all those built-in pockets (thanks, denim!) and that bold pop of blue from the zippers, it’s both functional and fun. Whether you’re making it for a school run or a weekend outing, it’s got that perfect mix of handmade charm and real-world usefulness.

The tutorial shows you how to turn jeans into something way more impressive than your average tote. And bonus—you can even wear it crossbody if that’s more your style. It’s a bit more advanced than some of the other projects, but if you’ve got some sewing experience and a good stash of denim, it’s totally doable.

This gorgeous denim wreath for all seasons is simply made from leftover scraps from other projects. Felt scraps for the roses and jeans seams for the base.

This wreath is such a clever little mix of rustic and romantic. The base is wrapped with seams from old jeans (hello, texture!), and those felt roses add the prettiest pop of color. It’s one of those projects that looks gorgeous all year round—on your front door, above a mantel, or even hung inside a gallery wall.

It’s also a brilliant way to use up those leftover scraps from other upcycled crafts. If you’ve got felt, denim seams, and a hot glue gun, you’re halfway there. The linked tutorial shows you how to pull it all together—and once you’ve made one, you’ll probably want to create one for every season.

Sew a DIY fold over clutch using recycled denim and leather or faux leather with an optional cross body strap

This fold-over clutch proves that upcycled can be chic. The combo of textured denim and sleek faux leather gives it that modern, boutique feel, and the optional strap makes it super versatile—wear it crossbody for errands or tuck the strap in and use it as a clutch for a night out.

The tutorial (linked above) walks you through every step, so don’t worry if you’ve never made a bag before. It’s a great scrap-buster too—especially if you’ve got small leftover pieces from other projects that are too cute to toss. And let’s be honest—handmade bags are always better when they come with a story.

These star shaped bean bags are perfect for outdoor or indoor play with kids!

These little denim stars are proof that upcycling can be just as fun as it is functional. They’re the perfect size for tossing, catching, stacking, or playing your own version of bean bag tic-tac-toe. Plus, they’re soft enough for indoor play but sturdy enough to survive an outdoor game in the yard.

They’re a brilliant use for all those oddly shaped denim scraps you can’t bear to throw out. The pinked edges add a fun, crafty touch, and the tutorial includes a free template to make cutting and stitching a breeze. Make a set for the kids—or honestly, for yourself. They’re way more fun than fidget spinners.

Denim is one of the most durable fabrics made and also the easiest to find for projects such as this small space floor mat. You can repurpose last year’s worn out jeans or go in search of a handful of jumpers or dresses at the thrift store without spending a lot of money.

This floor mat proves that even the smallest scraps of denim can come together to make something striking. The hexagon design gives it a modern, quilted look, and the different denim tones add just the right amount of texture and interest. It’s ideal for a small space—like an entryway, kitchen, or even beside the bed.

If you’ve got a soft spot for geometry (or just love a good scrap project), this one’s worth bookmarking. The tutorial linked above walks you through it, and you can totally mix in other thrifted fabrics if you want to make it your own. Durable, washable, and budget-friendly—what’s not to love?

This denim quilt is gorgeous and will look great over your sofa!

There’s just something timeless about a patchwork quilt—and this denim version is no exception. The raw edges give it that lovely rag-quilt texture, and the range of denim washes makes every square a little different. It’s warm, weighty, and perfect for tossing over the back of the sofa or curling up with on chilly evenings.

This is a great way to use up jeans that are too worn for anything else but still full of character. Whether you’re new to quilting or have a few under your belt, this one’s a satisfying make—and the tutorial linked above has all the guidance you’ll need to piece it together, frays and all.

Find out how to make this cute denim picnic blanket from old jeans!

This denim picnic blanket is equal parts cute and practical—because honestly, what better use is there for tough old jeans than a blanket made for sitting on the ground? The mix of dark, light, and black denim blocks gives it a classic checkerboard feel, and that little pocket is the perfect hiding spot for snacks or sunnies.

It’s a beginner-friendly project with a full tutorial linked, so even if you’re not a quilting expert, you can still pull this one off. Add a waterproof backing if you want to take it on damp grass—or keep it soft and cozy for backyard lounging. Either way, it’s the kind of DIY that’ll get plenty of use.

Here’s another way to repurpose those old holey (or should we say too tight?) blue jeans. Nothing says 4th of July like red, white and blue bunting!

Is there anything cuter than a little patriotic bunting made from old jeans? This red, white, and blue garland is the perfect upcycled touch for your 4th of July mantel, front porch, or backyard BBQ setup. The denim gives it a rustic vibe, while the gingham trim brings all the picnic charm.

The tutorial linked above shows you how to turn even the most worn-out jeans into something totally party-ready. It’s a quick and satisfying project—and let’s be honest, it’s way more fun than tossing those “too tight to breathe” jeans into the donation bin. Add some twine and you’re good to go!

This Rug Making 101 video will show you how to weave a rug using old jeans! The jeans rug is adorable!

Discover how to make denim feathers from recycled jeans, perfect for crafting trendy accessories and home decor.

These denim feathers are absolute boho magic. Made from strips of recycled jeans and softened with a bit of fraying, they add a handmade, earthy charm to whatever you hang them on—doors, mirrors, gallery walls, you name it. Paired with wooden beads and a driftwood stick, they feel like a little piece of a beach day you get to keep forever.

The tutorial shows you exactly how to get those soft, feathery edges and assemble your own hanging display. You could also scale it down and turn a single feather into a necklace, keychain, or gift tag. It’s one of those simple-but-stunning projects that makes people say, “Wait—you made that?”

This upcycled denim doorstop is practical and stylish.

Here’s a project that proves upcycling can be seriously useful. This chunky little doorstop is made entirely from old denim and stuffed with whatever weighty filler you’ve got on hand (rice, gravel, beans—your call). It’s got a sturdy feel, a carry handle for easy moving, and a handy little pocket just because, well, why not?

It’s a great scrap buster and an even better beginner sewing project. You don’t need fancy finishes—just strong seams and some good, solid topstitching. There’s a full how-to linked, and once you’ve made one, you’ll probably want one for every door in the house.

How to make a cosmetic bag from unwanted jeans

This upcycled cosmetic bag is as charming as it is practical. The patchwork front combines tiny denim scraps with coordinating cottons for a soft, quilted look that’s full of personality. It’s the perfect size for makeup, craft supplies, or whatever bits and bobs always seem to end up floating loose in your handbag.

The tutorial linked shows you how to get that nice boxed base and secure zipper, even if you’re not a bag-making pro. Bonus points: it makes a great gift. You could even personalize it with different fabrics, embroidery, or a little denim monogram to make it truly one-of-a-kind.

Whew—who knew one stack of old jeans could turn into this much creativity? From quilts and cushions to totes, toys, and even a wreath or two, there’s a denim DIY for every mood, season, and skill level. The best part? Each project has that perfectly imperfect charm that only comes from something handmade and well-loved.

So next time you’re clearing out your closet, don’t toss those jeans—craft with them! Whether you follow a tutorial or make it up as you go, upcycling denim is a fun (and seriously satisfying) way to make something beautiful from what you already have. Happy stitching!