DIY Denim Purse How To Upcycle Your Old Jeans

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Denim purses are a fantastic way to upcycle your old jeans, creating a stylish and unique accessory while also being environmentally conscious. In this article, we'll dive deep into how you can transform your worn-out denim into a trendy and functional purse. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a beginner, this guide will provide you with the steps, tips, and inspiration you need to create a denim purse you'll love. So, grab your old jeans, and let's get started on this exciting DIY project!

Why Make a Denim Purse?

Before we jump into the how-to, let's explore why making a denim purse is such a great idea. Firstly, it's an excellent way to give new life to old jeans. We all have those pairs of jeans that are too worn out to wear but too sentimental to throw away. Turning them into a purse is a perfect solution!

Secondly, denim is incredibly durable. A denim purse can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making it a practical choice for everyday use. Plus, denim's timeless appeal ensures your purse will always be in style. Moreover, creating a denim purse is a cost-effective way to add a unique accessory to your wardrobe. Instead of buying a new purse, you're repurposing materials you already have. It’s a win-win!

Finally, making a denim purse allows you to express your creativity. You can customize your purse with different embellishments, linings, and designs, making it truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you prefer a rustic, bohemian look or a sleek, modern style, the possibilities are endless. Denim is a versatile material, and with a little imagination, you can create a purse that perfectly reflects your personal style.

Gathering Your Materials

To make a denim purse, you'll need a few essential materials and tools. Don't worry; most of these are readily available, and you might even have some of them lying around your house. First and foremost, you'll need a pair of old jeans. Choose a pair that has a sturdy fabric, even if they have some wear and tear. The more denim you have, the more options you'll have for design and size.

Next, you'll need fabric for the lining. This can be any material you like, such as cotton, canvas, or even a patterned fabric for a pop of color. The lining not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the purse but also provides structure and durability. You’ll also need sewing essentials such as thread that matches your denim and lining fabric, needles, scissors, pins, and a sewing machine (though you can sew by hand if you prefer).

For the straps, you have several options. You can use the existing belt loops from the jeans, strips of denim fabric, or even purchase ready-made straps. Depending on your design, you might also want to include additional embellishments such as buttons, rivets, zippers, lace, or patches. These can add personality and flair to your purse. Finally, consider using interfacing to give your purse extra structure, especially if your denim is on the thinner side. Interfacing is a fabric that is fused or sewn to the back of your material to add stiffness and support.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Denim Purse

Now that you have your materials, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making your denim purse. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a stylish new accessory in no time!

Step 1: Preparing the Denim

Start by cutting the legs off your jeans. The amount you cut off will depend on the size of the purse you want to make. For a small to medium-sized purse, cutting just below the pockets should be sufficient. Next, open up the seams of the jeans legs. You can use a seam ripper for this, or carefully cut along the seams with scissors. Once the seams are open, you’ll have large pieces of denim fabric to work with. Wash and iron the denim pieces to remove any wrinkles and make them easier to handle. This will also help prevent shrinkage later on.

Step 2: Cutting the Purse Pieces

Decide on the size and shape of your purse. You can use a paper pattern or draw directly onto the denim with fabric chalk. For a simple tote-style purse, cut two rectangular pieces for the front and back. You’ll also need pieces for the sides and bottom, if desired. If you want a more structured purse, consider using a pattern. Remember to add seam allowances (usually about 1/2 inch) to all sides of your pieces. This will ensure that your purse has enough room for stitching.

Step 3: Sewing the Main Body

Pin the front, back, and side pieces together, with the right sides facing each other. Sew along the edges, creating the main body of the purse. If you’re adding a bottom piece, pin and sew it on as well. Reinforce the seams by sewing over them twice, especially if you’re using heavy denim. This will help your purse withstand wear and tear. Once the main body is sewn together, turn it right side out and press the seams. This will give your purse a neat and professional finish.

Step 4: Creating the Lining

Cut the lining pieces using the same pattern or measurements as your denim pieces. Sew the lining pieces together in the same way you sewed the denim body. Leave a small opening (about 4-5 inches) at the bottom of the lining. This opening will be used to turn the purse right side out later. Once the lining is sewn, press the seams. Place the lining inside the denim body, with the wrong sides facing each other. Align the top edges of the denim and lining, and pin them together.

Step 5: Adding the Straps

Decide on the type and placement of your straps. If you’re using the existing belt loops from the jeans, you can simply sew them onto the top edges of the purse. If you’re making your straps from denim fabric, cut two strips of the desired length and width. Fold the edges of the strips inward and press, then fold the strips in half lengthwise and sew along the edges. This will create sturdy denim straps. Pin the straps to the top edges of the purse, making sure they are evenly spaced. Sew the straps securely to the purse, reinforcing the stitching for added durability.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Sew the lining to the denim body along the top edge. This will encase the raw edges and give your purse a clean finish. Reach inside the opening in the lining and turn the purse right side out. Gently push out the corners and edges to give the purse its final shape. Sew the opening in the lining closed, either by hand or with a machine. If you’re adding embellishments, now is the time to do so. Sew on buttons, rivets, lace, or patches to customize your purse. You can also add pockets, zippers, or other features to make your purse more functional. Give your new denim purse a final press, and you’re done!

Creative Ideas and Customizations

The beauty of making your own denim purse is the ability to customize it to your heart's content. Here are some creative ideas and customizations to inspire you:

  • Patchwork Denim Purse: Use different shades and textures of denim to create a patchwork design. This adds a unique and artistic touch to your purse.
  • Embroidered Details: Add embroidered flowers, patterns, or initials to your purse for a personalized touch. Embroidery can transform a simple denim purse into a work of art.
  • Distressed Denim Look: Embrace the worn-in look by adding distressing to your denim. You can use sandpaper, a cheese grater, or even bleach to create a vintage vibe.
  • Adding Pockets: Sew extra pockets inside or outside your purse for added functionality. Pockets are great for storing your phone, keys, or other essentials.
  • Using Leather Accents: Incorporate leather straps, handles, or details for a sophisticated and durable finish. Leather and denim make a classic combination.
  • Colorful Linings: Choose a bright and colorful fabric for the lining to add a pop of color to your purse. This is a fun way to express your personality.
  • Adding a Zipper Closure: If you want to keep your belongings secure, add a zipper closure to your purse. This is a practical addition for everyday use.
  • Using Hardware: Incorporate metal hardware such as buckles, rivets, and clasps for an industrial-chic look. Hardware can add both style and functionality.

Tips for Success

To ensure your denim purse turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:

  • Choose the Right Denim: Opt for sturdy denim that can withstand wear and tear. Thicker denim will provide more structure and durability.
  • Use Sharp Scissors: Sharp scissors will make cutting the denim easier and more precise. This is especially important when working with thick fabrics.
  • Reinforce Seams: Denim can be tough on sewing machines, so reinforce your seams by sewing over them twice. This will prevent your purse from falling apart.
  • Use the Right Needle: Use a heavy-duty needle designed for denim. This will prevent the needle from breaking or skipping stitches.
  • Take Your Time: Don't rush the process. Take your time to measure, cut, and sew accurately. This will result in a higher-quality finished product.
  • Press as You Go: Pressing your seams after each step will give your purse a professional finish. It also makes the fabric easier to work with.
  • Get Creative: Don't be afraid to experiment with different designs and embellishments. The more creative you get, the more unique your purse will be.
  • Practice on Scraps: If you're new to sewing with denim, practice on scraps first. This will help you get a feel for the fabric and avoid mistakes on your main project.

Final Thoughts

Making a denim purse is a rewarding project that allows you to upcycle old jeans into a stylish and functional accessory. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer, this guide has provided you with the steps, tips, and inspiration you need to create a denim purse you'll love. So, gather your materials, get creative, and start crafting your own unique denim purse today! Remember, the best part about DIY projects is the personal touch you add, making each piece truly special. Happy sewing, guys!