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Open denim bag with strap
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3.43 from 7 votes

DIY Bag from Jeans - A Fun Way to Recycle and Repurpose Old Stuff

You only need basic sewing skills to create a great weekender bag that's made from old jeans. It's not only easy to make, but it's inexpensive too!
Prep Time15 minutes
Active Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: DIY Projects
Yield: 1 Jean Bag
Author: Patti Estep
Cost: $10

Equipment

  • Sewing Machine

Materials

  • Old pair of jeans
  • Zipper to fit the inside of the jean bag
  • 2 1 inch D-rings
  • 1 inch black twill tape
  • 1 decorative purse strap

Instructions

  • Cut the leg off below the crotch of the jeans.
  • Open the front seam, and pin it flat.
  • Sew along the pin lines.
  • After you've sewn the center, cut off the excess fabric.
  • Repeat on the center of the backside of the jeans.
  • Pin and sew a 1/2 inch seam on the bottom.
  • Once the bottom seam is sewn, match the side seam with the bottom making a point.
  • Measure 3.5 inches across and mark a line.
  • Pin and sew along the line. 
  • Cut off the point or leave it for extra support.
  • Repeat on the other side.
  • Turn the back right side out and you have a boxed bottom for your bag.
  • Pin one side of the zipper just inside the waistband.
  • Sew that side using a navy or blue thread.
  • Open the zipper and pin the other side. Sew in place.
  • Cut a small piece of twill tape and slide it through the D-ring. 
  • Pin it to the top of the side of the bag and sew into place.
  • Trim off any extra twill tape.
  • Clip a decorative strap to use as your handle. 
  • Decide on the finished length and width.
  • Split it in half and add extra for seams and attaching to the bag. 
  • Sew the two strips together on the short ends using 1/2 inch seam allowance.
  • Press open the seam open. 
  • Fold the fabric in half lengthwise with right sides together.
  • Stitch with a 1/2 inch seam allowance.
  • Turn the fabric right side out and stitch it to the bag.
  • Fold under the raw edge and loop it through the D-ring and sew it back onto itself .
Tried this project?Tag @hearthnvine on Instagram