If you love upcycling and want to create something both functional and stylish, then making bags from old jeans is the perfect project for you! This DIY tutorial will walk you through the full process of creating your own bag using repurposed denim. Whether you’re a beginner in sewing or just looking for a fun, budget-friendly project, this guide is for you. Along the way, we’ll include quilt and quilt pattern techniques to add a creative flair to your design.
Why Make Bags from Old Jeans?
Repurposing denim is a fantastic way to breathe new life into old clothes. Jeans are made of durable fabric, making them ideal for crafting bags that can withstand daily use. Instead of discarding worn-out or outgrown jeans, why not transform them into something useful and beautiful?
Upcycling also contributes to reducing textile waste, which is better for the environment. With a few quilting touches, you can turn your bag into a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your creativity. Think of it as combining fashion, functionality, and sustainability—all in one fun project.
Additionally, working with jeans is a great way to practice basic sewing techniques. If you enjoy quilting, you can apply your skills using a quilt pattern to create decorative panels or pockets for your denim bag. It’s the perfect opportunity to experiment with textures and layouts.
Materials You’ll Need
Before diving into the construction, gather all your materials. Most of these can be found at home or a local craft store.
Basic Materials:
- 1–2 pairs of old jeans (adult sizes work best for larger bags)
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Pins or sewing clips
- Iron and ironing board
- Sewing machine (or needle and thread if sewing by hand)
- Thread (denim color or contrast color)
- Lining fabric (cotton or any soft, durable fabric)
- Optional: interfacing for structure
For Quilt Accents:
- Fabric scraps for patchwork
- Batting (for quilted sections)
- Quilt pattern templates or paper for sketching design
- Quilting pins or basting spray
If you’re new to quilting, simple blocks like the nine-patch or log cabin are great to start with. They are easy to sew and make beautiful accents on bags.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating the Bag Base
Step 1: Cut Your Jeans
Start by laying your jeans flat and cutting along the inner seams to separate the front and back. Choose large sections—like the thigh area—for your main bag panels. Cut two rectangles, about 16” wide and 14” tall (adjust the size depending on the desired bag size). Keep the pockets—you can reuse them!
Step 2: Prepare the Quilt Accents
Using your chosen quilt pattern, assemble a small panel using scrap fabrics. For example, make a 6” x 6” quilted block and attach it to the front panel of the denim. Place batting and backing behind your patchwork and quilt it using straight-line or free-motion stitching.
Step 3: Assemble the Bag Body
With right sides together, sew the two denim rectangles along the sides and bottom. If you want a boxy shape, sew a 2” square at each bottom corner, cut the corners, and stitch across to create a flat bottom.
Adding the Lining and Handles
Step 4: Prepare the Lining
Cut two fabric rectangles the same size as your denim panels. Sew them together the same way, but leave a 3” gap at the bottom for turning the bag right side out later. If you want inner pockets, now’s the time to add them before sewing the lining together.
Step 5: Create and Attach the Handles
Cut two long strips of denim or use sturdy cotton webbing. Each strip should be around 22”–26” long and 2” wide. Fold the strips lengthwise, sew them closed, and turn them inside out. Pin the straps onto the outer denim bag, spacing them evenly and stitching them securely.
Step 6: Combine Lining and Outer Bag
Place the denim bag inside the lining, right sides facing each other, and align the top edges. Sew all around the top. Turn the bag right side out through the hole in the lining, then stitch the hole closed. Press the top edge and topstitch for a finished look.
Personalization Ideas
Add Decorative Quilt Panels
One creative way to personalize your denim bag is by adding colorful quilt panels using your favorite quilt pattern. You can create flower blocks, geometric shapes, or even appliqué designs using the same techniques as in traditional quilting.
Use Embellishments
Add embroidery, buttons, patches, or fabric paint to give your bag more character. Old jean labels or leather patches can also be reused for a rustic look. For a boho vibe, consider fringe or lace.
Play with Pocket Placement
Since jeans come with pre-made pockets, use them creatively. Place one on the outside or inside of the bag. You can even stitch several pockets together to form a compartmentalized inner lining.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Needle
Denim is a thick fabric, so use a heavy-duty needle (size 90/14 or 100/16) to avoid breakage. Also, use strong thread like polyester for added durability.
Press Seams as You Go
Always press your seams with an iron before sewing over them again. This keeps your quilt pattern blocks flat and your bag looking professional.
Start Simple
If this is your first bag, keep the design basic. Once you’re comfortable, explore other bag styles like backpacks, totes, or even quilted crossbody purses. Each project is a new chance to improve your skills.
Make It a Quilt-Inspired Collection
Why stop at one bag? Once you’ve mastered the basic technique, you can start a collection of quilt-inspired bags, each featuring a different quilt pattern. Combine patchwork with upcycled denim to make matching cosmetic pouches, laptop sleeves, or picnic totes. The sturdiness of the jeans fabric combined with the beauty of quilting makes for practical and beautiful accessories.
Even if you’re already into quilting, incorporating quilt pattern techniques into everyday items like bags can be a rewarding new way to showcase your creativity. Each bag becomes a small, mobile quilt project you can carry with you.
Share Your Creation!
Congratulations on creating your very own upcycled jeans bag! Whether you used a quilt pattern for accent or kept it sleek and simple, you’ve just given new life to old denim. We’d love to see your creativity in action—share your project on social media or with your local quilting group.
Tag your photos with #DenimBagDIY #QuiltPatternMagic and #UpcycledCreativity so fellow crafters can get inspired too. Don’t forget: every quilt pattern tells a story, and now your bag does too.
Let’s keep stitching sustainability and style together!