upcycling old jeans embroidery
upcycling old jeans embroidery

How to upcycle old jeans and jackets

MATERIALS

  Three denim pockets: 35cm, 40cm, and 45cm

 Cotton fabric: 14x14cm and 7x6cm, patterned; 10x10cm, grey

 Stranded cotton: 1 skein each of black, blue, coral, green, grey, pink, teal, white and yellow

Metallic thread: 1 skein of gold Embroidery hoops: 18cm, 23cm and 25cm diameter

Button: 1cm diameter Bondaweb

DMC Magic Paper Strong, clear craft glue Basic embroidery kit

STITCHES USED

Backstitch, Blanket Stitch, French Knots, Satin Stitch, Straight Stitch,

Whipped Backstitch

upcycling jeans embroidery

Fuse Bondaweb to the WS of the large piece of patterned fabric and the

grey fabric. Repeat on the RS of your small patterned piece, so that the print is under the Bondaweb and the reverse of the fabric

is now the front – this is done to create a soft contrasting pattern. Transfer the appliqué templates: use the large piece of patterned fabric for the scissor handles and bobbin ends; the grey fabric for the scissor blades; and the small piece of patterned fabric for the middle part of the bobbin. Cut them all out.

 

LARGE HOOP

Starting with the largest hoop design, remove the Bondaweb paper on the scissor blades and fuse the blades onto the left-hand edge, adjacent to the denim pocket – be sure to allow space for both the scissor handles and the pocket once inserted into the hoop. Then, work Blanket Stitch around the blades in grey to secure onto the denim. Repeat this process with the scissor handles, using coral. Insert your denim pocket into your 25cm

upcycling jeans embroidery

Fuse Bondaweb to the WS of the large piece of patterned fabric and the

grey fabric. Repeat on the RS of your small patterned piece, so that the print is under the Bondaweb and the reverse of the fabric

is now the front – this is done to create a soft contrasting pattern. Transfer the appliqué templates: use the large piece of patterned fabric for the scissor handles and bobbin ends; the grey fabric for the scissor blades; and the small piece of patterned fabric for the middle part of the bobbin. Cut them all out.

 

upcycling jeans embroidery

between the two halves. Stitch down the middle of the blades and between the handles.

Using the DMC Magic Paper, transfer your stork scissors template onto the

denim fabric above the pocket. Using white, work the outline in Whipped Backstitch, then add the inner details using Backstitch and the heart using Satin Stitch. Remove the DMC Magic Paper following the packet instructions.

Attach a button to the larger scissors where the pivot screw would be. Choose

a button that complements the design but doesn’t blend into the fabric’s pattern.

Add some Straight Stitch stars in metallic gold thread, scattering them around the

designs as shown. You can either do this by eye or use the main image on p26 to help with their placement.

 

upcycling jeans embroidery

MEDIUM HOOP

Fuse the appliqué pieces to the

right-hand side of the pocket, working Blanket Stitch in coral around the outside edge of each one to secure before adding the next.

Attach them in the following order: bobbin bottom, middle of bobbin and then the bobbin top. Insert the denim pocket into your 23cm hoop – leaving enough space above to stitch

SMALL HOOP

Using your DMC Magic Paper, transfer the lettering template to your denim fabric above the pocket. Insert into the hoop – see the main image on p26 for placement. Work the lettering in Whipped Backstitch using

 

upcycling jeans embroidery
upcycling jeans embroidery

Upcycling Old Jeans and Jackets: A Guide to Creative Reinvention

Denim, a versatile fabric with enduring appeal, has become a staple in our wardrobes. However, over time, our favorite jeans or jackets may lose their luster or become outdated. Instead of tossing them in the donation bin, consider upcycling them into unique and stylish creations that add personality and flair to your home décor and style.

Transforming Old Jeans

  1. Patchwork Tote Bag: Craft a stylish tote bag that’s both durable and fashionable. Cut out various patches from your old jeans, creating a patchwork design. Sew the patches together, leaving a pocket or two for added functionality. Attach a sturdy strap, and your unique tote bag is ready for everyday use.

  2. Fringe Scarf or Wrap: Unravel the hem of your jeans, creating long strands of denim fringe. Sew the fringe together to form a scarf or wrap, adding tassels or embellishments for a personalized touch. This eye-catching accessory will elevate your wardrobe and complement any outfit.

  3. Potholders or Coasters: Cut out squares or circles from your jeans, leaving the back pocket intact. Use the pocket as a grip, or sew a ribbon or handle for easy handling. These versatile potholders or coasters will not only protect your surfaces but also add a touch of denim charm to your kitchen.

Revamping Old Jackets

  1. Patchwork Vest: Turn your old jacket into a stylish vest by removing the sleeves. Create patchwork panels from different areas of the jacket, using different colors and textures to create a unique design. Sew the panels together, adding pockets or embellishments for added interest.

  2. Home Décor Accessories: Cut out decorative elements from your jacket, such as patches, buttons, or even the zipper. Use these accents to personalize your home décor. Attach them to throw pillows, curtains, or even framed artwork to add a touch of denim flair to your living space.

  3. DIY Denim Purse: Transform your jacket into a trendy handbag by cutting out a section of the back or front panel. Add straps and a clasp, and your unique purse is ready to carry your essentials with style. Use contrasting fabrics or embellishments to enhance the look.

Upcycling: A Sustainable Choice

Upcycling old jeans and jackets not only extends the lifespan of these garments but also reduces our environmental impact. By giving these items new life, we conserve resources and prevent them from ending up in landfills. Moreover, upcycling allows us to express our creativity and develop a unique personal style.

Embrace the spirit of sustainable fashion and transform your old jeans and jackets into one-of-a-kind creations that reflect your personality and style. With a little imagination and a dash of creativity, you can breathe new life into your denim wardrobe, while also making a positive impact on the environment.

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