Creative DIY’s

At any given time, most of us have at least one pair of old jeans lying around that we just don’t know what to do with. They don’t fit us anymore, they’re stretched out from years of wear, or they’re a style we used to like but now find appalling. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to teach old jeans new tricks. Here are 5 ideas for turning your jeans into something completely different. 

1. Denim Potholders. This is a simple project that’s perfect for beginning sewers. The pockets of old jeans turn easily into cool-looking potholders. Here’s a video tutorial that guides you through every step. These denim potholders would be great as gifts, or just to keep around your kitchen. You can never have enough potholders.
2. Denim Pillow. Another great sewing project for beginners, a DIY denim throw pillow makes an attractive addition to any couch or bed. This is the ideal throw pillow- it’s simple and no-frills, and doesn’t take up too much space. It’s a casual pillow. It’s just there to hang out.
3. Denim Tote Bag. You can create a denim tote bag super easily with this video tutorial. A tote bag is not only useful in almost every conceivable situation, but this one also comes out looking really stylish. Plus, the tutorial video is oddly soothing.
4. Denim Book Cover. If you hate when your books start looking old and worn, or if you’re a high school or college student with a ton of textbooks, check out this DIY denim book cover tutorial. The book cover will protect your book from the elements, and it looks unique and cool. Plus, it’s super customizable–if you’re feeling fancy, you can embroider your name, the book title, or anything you want on the denim cover.
5. Denim Napkins. Upcycled denim napkins look cool and rustic, and are ultra-sturdy. They make a unique addition to a dinner party, and are also great for everyday use. As a bonus, they’re amazingly easy to make.
6. Denim Apron. Here’s another project that’s quick, easy for beginning sewers, and highly customizable. This apron spruces up the look of old denim by adding cute fabric (any fabric of your choosing!) around the edges. Plus, this will undoubtedly be the most durable apron you own. Use it for painting, cooking, or anything you want.
7. Denim Organizer. We’ve all been there: your shoes, pencils, and miscellaneous items are everywhere, and they’re driving you insane. Solution: the over-the-door denim organizer. This handy organizer hangs conveniently over a closet door, and can hold anything you want. Add as many pockets as you need to wrangle your stuff.
8. Denim Quilt. For the more advanced seamster or seamstress, a denim patchwork quilt is a fun project that yields a truly unique end product. This is another denim project with endless potential for customization. Make your quilt any size you want, and use any and all denim you have lying around. If you have it, try interspersing strips of colored denim with the standard blue denim for a more colorful look.
9. Denim Chair Cover. Reupholster an old chair with denim to make the chair look brand-new for the cost of almost nothing. You could also do this with a couch, or any other furniture that needs a makeover. 
10. Denim Basket. Ok, this DIY recycled denim basket is the most complicated idea on this list, but if you’re the type that loves challenges or unconventional baskets, this is the project for you. It will take you several hours, but the finished product looks really cool. You can keep it empty and use it as a decorative piece, or use it to hold food, kitchen supplies, or piles of your other old jeans.