The 10 Best Ideas to Recycle Old Jeans

Because of the material in jean fabric, you can recycle old jeans in some great DIY projects. Learn all about them in this article!
The 10 Best Ideas to Recycle Old Jeans

Last update: 11 June, 2022

Did you know that there are countless ways to recycle old jeans?

There are several interesting crafts that involve recycling old jeans when they go out of style or you don’t want them anymore. If you don’t want to give them away, you can always use jean fabric to make a new project. 

As you probably already know, this type of garment is made of long-lasting material that stays in good shape regardless of how long you’ve had them. So, before you consider throwing them away, you should know there are other options for them.

Are you ready to give those jeans another chance?

Don’t miss out on these ideas below.

Ways to Recycle Old Jeans

Jean fabric is very resilient and can last for many decades. However, most people stop wearing them after a few years because they lose their original color or because the design as “gone out of style.”

So, instead of accumulating old jeans in your closet, it might be a great idea to extend their lifespan with some simple projects you can do at home.

In this article, we’ll share 10 different ways you can recycle old jeans. 

1. Aprons

recycle old jeans

To make beautiful aprons from jeans, you just have to cut the legs off the jeans you no longer use. Then, cut open the fabric with scissors and cut it according to the design you want it to have.

Finally, sew the tie strips and add any accessories: buttons, pockets, embroidery, etc.

2. Bags

recycle old jeans

There are many creative ways to make bags out of old, recycled jeans. In fact, many are actually great accessories for your regular clothes.

All you have to do is cut the fabric into the shape you like the most and then sew it with your sewing machine. The details you add to it are up to your own creativity.

3. Pencil organizers

recycle old jeans

By sewing some pockets to a piece of fabric, you can make a nice organizer for pencils.

This simple project won’t take much time and will help you organize those small items that you usually misplace.

4. Pet beds

recycle old jeans

What do you think about stuffing your old jeans to make them into a pet bed?

Although it may seem like a crazy idea, it’s actually quite interesting. Since the fabric is so resistant, it’s ideal for giving your dog or cat a comfortable space to rest. 

5. Pillows

recycle old jeans

One of the easiest crafts you can do to recycle old jeans is to make pillows for your bed or furniture.

The fabric can be cut is many ways, or several different shades can be put together to give it a more interesting style.

6. A wallet

recycle old jeans

This project is so simple and beautiful that you can give it your own special touch. To make it, you can use both the jean pockets and other parts of the fabric. 

7. Tablecloths

recycle old jeans

When it comes to serving meals, it’s always a good idea to have tablecloths to protect the table against spills or marks. In this case, we suggest using old jeans that are different colors to make unique tablecloths.

8. Flower pots

recycle old jeans

Instead of spending a lot of money on expensive pots for your garden, try using old pants that are just sitting in your closet. You can use them in their normal form or you can cut them into different shapes to get different pot sizes. 

9. Rugs

recycle old jeans

To recycle old jeans and make them into a rug or carpet, you can use several methods.

  • The easiest option is to open up the legs and sew the fabric together so that it is a good size.
  • Another option is to sew several pieces of different jeans together or use braids or ties.

10. Notebooks

recycle old jeans

Jeans have a modern and youthful style that can be used to create beautiful, personalized notebooks. All you have to do it cut them the right size and then fix the fabric with a good glue!

Do you have old jeans that have been in your closet for a long time? Stop accumulating them. Now you know how to recycle them easily and give them a new life!


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This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.