How to Make a DIY Bag from Discarded Jeans (Upcycling Jeans)

 Absolutely! Making a DIY bag from discarded jeans is a fantastic way to upcycle old clothes, reduce waste, and create something stylish and durable. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make a DIY bag from discarded jeans:

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How to Make a DIY Bag from Discarded Jeans (Upcycling Jeans)

Materials Needed:

• Old jeans (preferably a sturdy pair)

• Scissors

• Sewing machine or needle and strong thread

• Pins or fabric clips

• Measuring tape or ruler

• Chalk or fabric marker

• Optional: buttons, zippers, patches, or fabric paint for decoration

• Optional: lining fabric (for inside of the bag)

• Optional: handles (you can also use jeans fabric to make handles)

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Step 1: Choose Your Jeans

Pick a pair of jeans that you no longer wear but are still in decent shape. Heavier denim works best for sturdy bags.

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Step 2: Plan Your Bag Design

Decide on the type of bag you want to make:

• Tote bag

• Crossbody bag

• Clutch

• Backpack

For beginners, a simple tote bag is the easiest and quickest.

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Step 3: Prepare the Fabric Pieces

• Cut the jeans legs off near the crotch area, so you have large fabric pieces to work with.

• Cut two rectangles of the same size from the jeans fabric for the front and back of the bag. A common size is about 14 inches wide by 16 inches tall, but you can customize.

• Optionally, cut smaller pieces for pockets or decorations.

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Step 4: Cut Straps/Handles

• Use the leftover denim from the legs or waistband to cut two long strips for handles.

• Typical handle length: around 22-24 inches (for shoulder straps).

• Width: about 1.5-2 inches.

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Step 5: Prepare Optional Lining (If Using)

• Cut two rectangles from lining fabric the same size as your denim pieces.

• You can sew the lining separately and then insert it inside the denim shell.

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Step 6: Sew the Bag Body

1. Place the two denim rectangles right sides together (the outside of the jeans fabric should face inward).

2. Pin or clip the sides and bottom edges.

3. Sew along the pinned edges with a 1/2 inch seam allowance, leaving the top open.

4. For durability, sew twice or use a backstitch.

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Step 7: Shape the Bottom (Optional)

• To create a flat bottom, pinch the corners at the bottom of the bag and sew across about 2 inches from the tip, perpendicular to the seam.

• Trim excess fabric.

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Step 8: Attach the Handles

• Fold each strap lengthwise and sew along the edges to strengthen.

• Turn straps right side out.

• Pin the handles to the inside of the bag’s top edges, about 3 inches from each side.

• Sew the handles securely with a box stitch (a square with an X inside) for extra strength.

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Step 9: Finish the Top Edge

• Fold the top edge of the bag inward about 1/2 inch and then again 1 inch to hide raw edges.

• Sew around the top to secure the hem and the handles.

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Step 10: Add Details (Optional)

• Sew on pockets from leftover jean fabric.

• Add buttons, patches, or paint designs.

• Install a zipper or snap for closure.

• Add a lining if you haven't yet, sewing it inside the bag.

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Tips:

• Use heavy-duty denim needles on your sewing machine.

• Reinforce stress points like handle attachments.

• Upcycle jean pockets as external compartments for functionality.

• Play with different jean parts like seams, pockets, and waistband for design elements.

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Summary

Upcycling jeans into a DIY bag is eco-friendly, creative, and cost-effective. The strong denim fabric makes your bag durable and unique, with lots of customization options. Whether you sew by hand or machine, this project is perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike.

Watch tutorial: