Upcycle Your Jeans: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Stylish Denim Purse

Do you have a pair of old jeans that you’re ready to retire but hate to throw away? Why not give them a new life by turning them into a stylish and functional denim purse! This project is a fantastic way to upcycle materials, reduce waste, and create a unique accessory that reflects your personal style. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, from gathering your materials to adding the finishing touches.

Why Make a Denim Purse?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s explore why making a denim purse is such a great idea:

* **Sustainability:** Upcycling denim reduces textile waste and minimizes your environmental impact.
* **Cost-Effective:** You’re using materials you already have, saving money on buying a new purse.
* **Unique Style:** Create a one-of-a-kind accessory that no one else will have.
* **Customization:** Tailor the design to your specific needs and preferences.
* **Creative Outlet:** It’s a fun and rewarding DIY project.

Materials You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following materials:

* **Old Jeans:** Choose a pair of jeans that are in relatively good condition. Consider the wash, color, and thickness of the denim.
* **Lining Fabric:** Select a coordinating fabric for the lining of your purse. Cotton, linen, or a durable synthetic fabric are good choices. Approximately 1/2 yard should be sufficient.
* **Interfacing (Optional):** Interfacing adds structure and stability to your purse. Choose a medium-weight fusible interfacing if desired. Approximately 1/2 yard should be sufficient.
* **Straps:** You have several options for purse straps:
* Denim strips cut from the jeans
* Leather or faux leather straps
* Chain straps
* Webbing straps
* Rope
* **Closure:** Choose a closure that suits your style and the design of your purse:
* Zipper
* Button and loop
* Magnetic snap
* Drawstring
* **Thread:** Select a thread that matches or complements your denim fabric. Heavy-duty thread is recommended.
* **Sewing Machine:** A sewing machine is essential for this project. Make sure it’s in good working order and threaded correctly.
* **Scissors or Rotary Cutter:** For cutting fabric accurately.
* **Ruler or Measuring Tape:** For precise measurements.
* **Pins:** To hold fabric pieces together while sewing.
* **Seam Ripper:** For removing unwanted stitches.
* **Iron and Ironing Board:** For pressing fabric and interfacing.
* **Marking Pen or Chalk:** For transferring patterns and marking seam lines.
* **Optional Embellishments:** Beads, buttons, patches, lace, embroidery floss, etc., to personalize your purse.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get started on creating your denim purse! Follow these detailed steps:

**Step 1: Prepare the Jeans**

1. **Wash and Dry:** Wash and dry the jeans to pre-shrink the fabric and remove any dirt or stains.
2. **Cut Off the Legs:** Cut off both legs of the jeans, leaving the upper portion (the yoke and pockets) intact. The height where you cut will determine the overall size of your purse. A good starting point is about 12-14 inches from the waistband.
3. **Open the Seams (Optional):** If you want to create a wider purse, you can carefully open the side seams of the jeans legs. This will give you more fabric to work with. Use a seam ripper to carefully remove the stitches.
4. **Press the Fabric:** Iron the denim fabric to remove any wrinkles and creases. This will make it easier to work with.

**Step 2: Design Your Purse Shape**

1. **Decide on the Shape:** Consider the desired shape of your purse. Some popular options include:
* **Tote Bag:** A simple, rectangular shape.
* **Hobo Bag:** A slouchy, crescent shape.
* **Crossbody Bag:** A rectangular or square shape with a long strap.
* **Clutch:** A small, handheld bag.
2. **Create a Pattern (Optional):** If you’re using a specific pattern or want a more precise shape, create a paper pattern. Draw the desired shape on a piece of paper and add seam allowances (usually 1/2 inch) around the edges. If creating a pattern from your jeans, lay the opened jeans flat, and trace around it, making adjustments as needed.

**Step 3: Cut the Denim Fabric**

1. **Lay Out the Fabric:** Lay the prepared jeans legs flat on your work surface. If you opened the seams, make sure the fabric is spread out evenly.
2. **Pin the Pattern (if using):** If you created a pattern, pin it to the denim fabric, making sure to align the edges properly.
3. **Cut the Fabric:** Carefully cut out the denim fabric according to your pattern or desired shape. Remember to cut two identical pieces for the front and back of the purse. If you are not using a pattern, use the first cut piece of denim as a guide for the second piece.
4. **Utilize Pockets:** Think about incorporating pockets from the original jeans into the purse design for added functionality and style. You can leave the existing pockets on the denim pieces or remove them and reattach them in different locations.

**Step 4: Prepare the Lining Fabric**

1. **Cut the Lining Fabric:** Using the same pattern or denim pieces as a guide, cut out two pieces of lining fabric. These pieces should be the same size and shape as the denim pieces. If you used denim pieces rather than a pattern, simply place the cut denim pieces on top of the lining fabric and cut around them.
2. **Press the Lining Fabric:** Iron the lining fabric to remove any wrinkles and creases.

**Step 5: Apply Interfacing (Optional)**

1. **Cut the Interfacing:** Cut out two pieces of interfacing, using the same pattern or denim pieces as a guide.
2. **Fuse the Interfacing:** Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fuse the interfacing to the wrong side of the denim pieces. This will add structure and stability to your purse. Place the interfacing with the adhesive side down on the wrong side of the denim and iron over it. Make sure that you are ironing on a protected surface.

**Step 6: Sew the Purse Body**

1. **Pin the Denim Pieces:** Place the two denim pieces right sides together and pin along the edges, leaving the top open.
2. **Sew the Seams:** Sew along the pinned edges with a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitches.
3. **Trim the Seams:** Trim the seam allowance to reduce bulk. You can also clip the corners to make them sharper when you turn the purse right side out. Be careful not to cut through the stitches.
4. **Turn Right Side Out:** Turn the purse body right side out and press the seams.

**Step 7: Sew the Lining**

1. **Pin the Lining Pieces:** Place the two lining pieces right sides together and pin along the edges, leaving the top open and a 5-6 inch opening at the bottom for turning.
2. **Sew the Seams:** Sew along the pinned edges with a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitches. Remember to leave the opening at the bottom.
3. **Trim the Seams:** Trim the seam allowance to reduce bulk. You can also clip the corners to make them sharper when you turn the lining right side out.

**Step 8: Attach the Lining to the Purse Body**

1. **Insert the Lining:** Place the lining inside the purse body, wrong sides together. Align the top edges of the lining and the purse body.
2. **Pin the Top Edges:** Pin the top edges of the lining and the purse body together.
3. **Sew the Top Edges:** Sew around the top edge of the purse, attaching the lining to the purse body with a 1/4-inch seam allowance. This will create a clean and finished edge.
4. **Close the Opening:** Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the entire purse right side out. Carefully push the lining into the purse body. Then, fold in the edges of the opening in the lining and pin them together. Sew the opening closed with a hand stitch or a machine stitch. This step neatly conceals the seams.

**Step 9: Add Straps**

1. **Prepare the Straps:** Depending on the type of straps you’re using, prepare them accordingly.
* **Denim Straps:** Cut two strips of denim fabric to the desired length and width. Fold the edges of each strip towards the center and press. Then, fold the strip in half and press again. Sew along the edges to create a finished strap.
* **Leather/Faux Leather Straps:** You may need to punch holes for attaching hardware or sew the straps directly to the purse.
* **Chain Straps:** Attach the chain straps using jump rings and pliers.
* **Webbing Straps:** Fold the edges of the webbing straps under and sew along the edges to prevent fraying.
* **Rope Straps:** Knot the ends of the rope straps to prevent fraying.
2. **Attach the Straps:** Attach the straps to the purse body. The placement of the straps will depend on the design of your purse. Some common options include:
* **Sewing:** Sew the straps directly to the purse body, reinforcing the stitches for added strength.
* **Rivets:** Use rivets to attach the straps to the purse body for a more industrial look.
* **D-Rings and Swivel Clasps:** Attach D-rings to the purse body and use swivel clasps to attach the straps to the D-rings. This allows you to remove or change the straps.

**Step 10: Add a Closure**

1. **Choose a Closure:** Select a closure that suits your style and the design of your purse.
2. **Install the Closure:** Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the chosen closure.
* **Zipper:** Insert the zipper between the lining and the denim and stitch it in place.
* **Button and Loop:** Sew the button to one side of the purse and create a loop on the other side.
* **Magnetic Snap:** Attach the magnetic snap to the lining and the denim, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
* **Drawstring:** Create a casing at the top of the purse and insert a drawstring.

**Step 11: Add Embellishments (Optional)**

1. **Personalize Your Purse:** Add any desired embellishments to personalize your purse.
* **Beads and Buttons:** Sew beads and buttons onto the purse body.
* **Patches:** Iron or sew patches onto the purse body.
* **Lace:** Sew lace trim onto the purse body.
* **Embroidery:** Embroider designs onto the purse body.

Tips and Tricks for a Professional Finish

* **Use Quality Materials:** Choose high-quality denim, lining fabric, and thread for a durable and long-lasting purse.
* **Precise Cutting:** Accurate cutting is essential for a well-fitting purse. Use a sharp pair of scissors or a rotary cutter and ruler.
* **Pressing is Key:** Pressing the fabric at each step will create a professional and polished finish.
* **Reinforce Seams:** Reinforce the seams, especially where the straps are attached, to ensure the purse can withstand weight.
* **Topstitching:** Add topstitching along the edges of the purse for a decorative and durable finish.
* **Experiment with Embellishments:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different embellishments to create a unique and personalized purse.
* **Consider the Weight:** Be mindful of the weight of the materials you’re using, especially for larger purses. Heavy denim and embellishments can make the purse uncomfortable to carry.
* **Protect Your Work Surface:** When using fusible interfacing or applying embellishments with glue, protect your work surface with a non-stick mat or parchment paper.

Design Variations and Ideas

* **Patchwork Denim Purse:** Use scraps of different denim washes and colors to create a patchwork design.
* **Distressed Denim Purse:** Add distressed details to the denim, such as rips, tears, and fraying, for a more edgy look.
* **Embroidered Denim Purse:** Embroider intricate designs onto the denim for a unique and personalized touch.
* **Denim Purse with Leather Accents:** Combine denim with leather or faux leather accents for a sophisticated and stylish look.
* **Denim Purse with Appliqués:** Add appliqués to the denim, such as flowers, animals, or geometric shapes.
* **Denim Backpack Purse:** Combine the features of a purse and a backpack for a functional and fashionable accessory.
* **Denim Clutch with Wristlet Strap:** Create a small denim clutch with a wristlet strap for a night out.
* **Denim Purse with Zipper Pockets:** Add zipper pockets to the exterior or interior of the purse for extra storage.

Caring for Your Denim Purse

* **Spot Clean:** Spot clean your denim purse with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
* **Hand Wash:** If necessary, hand wash your denim purse in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach.
* **Air Dry:** Air dry your denim purse away from direct sunlight or heat. Tumble drying can cause the fabric to shrink or fade.
* **Iron (if needed):** Iron your denim purse on a low setting if needed. Avoid ironing over embellishments or closures.
* **Store Properly:** Store your denim purse in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew or damage.

Conclusion

Creating a denim purse from old jeans is a rewarding and sustainable project. By following these step-by-step instructions and incorporating your own creative ideas, you can transform a discarded item into a stylish and functional accessory. So, gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and start sewing! You’ll not only have a unique purse but also the satisfaction of knowing you’ve contributed to a more sustainable lifestyle. Happy sewing!