It’s hard to know what to do with old jeans. When they get frayed at the bottom but otherwise look perfect, it seems like such a waste to throw them away!

One fantastic option is to upcycle old jeans into new craft projects. Denim isn’t going out of style anytime soon, and using denim in home décor projects can be so lovely. It’s amazing what these clever minds have come up with! These 8 creative ways to upcycle denim will make you scour your home for jeans you’re willing to part with.

1.       Recycled Denim DIY Oven Mitt


Oven mitts are one of those fantastic household items you can’t have too many of, and they also make excellent gifts. This oven mitt tutorial includes a video teaching you how to sew it.

2.       No Sew Upcycled Jean Coaster


This denim craft is as easy as cut, measure, and glue. With this project, you only use a small portion of fabric from your old jeans, so you can use the leftovers for another great project.

3.       Frayed Denim DIY Coasters


Speaking of coasters, another option that requires some sewing is making these denim coasters with frayed edges. This is a great sewing tutorial for beginners that’s eco-friendly.

4.       Funky Jeans Bag


Turn your old jeans into a purse no one will forget with this upcycling tutorial. Teens and adults alike will draw attention with this fun purse. Tailor the fabric trim and belt to your own style! You can even upcycle an old shirt or bedsheet to get that fabric trim!

5.       Denim Flower Brooch

You can make fabric flowers to embellish almost anything. A pair of jeans goes a long way with this tutorial. You can make dozens of denim flowers out of old jeans! Choose a button or brad of your choice to adorn the center for a personalized look. These flowers make excellent hair accessories for girls.

6.       Multi Colored Denim Wreath


Perfect for any season, this denim wreath will take a few pairs of pants and a bit of patience, but the results are certainly lovely. 

7.       Denim Pocket Pincushion


If you’re sewing a bunch of recycled denim projects, chances are you’ll need some pins! You can turn old jeans into a cute pincushion. It’s nice to have a few of these around the house so they’re handy no matter what room the itch to sew occurs.

8.       Denim Shorts Chore Chart


If you have kids, this chore chart is a great option for upcycling old jeans or shorts. The decorated sticks with chalkboard paint are fun to write on and might even make chores more entertaining! The satisfaction of moving one stich from the “to do” pocket to “done” is as satisfying as crossing items off the to do list.

Looking for more ideas? Check out our collection of 34 Recycled Crafts with Denim.

What is your favorite way to wear denim?