Jeans – chances are you’ve got at least half a dozen in your wardrobe but if you’re anything like me, at least half of them go unworn because they don’t fit right, are poor quality, a colour you’ll NEVER wear and are now taking up precious space in your wardrobe.

Then there are those pairs that you’ve loved to death, with threadbare knees and worn out crotches.

But don’t even think about throwing them out for one second – because there are SO many ways to upcycle them!

There are so many uses for denim – it’s hard wearing, versatile and lends itself to so many uses.

On Saturday, I hosted an upcycling demonstration at Lane Cove Council and we had such a fun morning giving our old jeans a new lease of life.

Here are a few ideas to inspire you…

Embellish with lace 

I gave an old pair of shorts a whole new lease of life just by hand-sewing lace into the pocket. This will take you less than ten minutes!

Doily shorts:

One of my favourite ways to upcycle old jeans! You can find the tutorial HERE.

Turn them into a skirt.

This is so easy. First, decide how short you want your skirt. Cut to the length you’d like, and keep the offcuts. Then, cut the inside seam and crotch so they lie flat. Use your offcuts to fill the gap, and sew up with strong thread.

Make darling rosettes

These rosettes are so easy to make – and perfect use for jeans that just can’t be salvaged. Simply cut flower shapes, and layer with some lace. Or, use one strip of denim, and fold around itself to create a flower shape. It’s a little fiddly, but the result is gorgeous. Finish with a button, and use them to embellish bags, cushions or use as hair pieces.

Use it as a gift bag for a bottle of wine!

Such a great idea! Just cut off a leg, sew a seam and tie with a pretty ribbon. Thanks to mysoulfulhome.com for this fantastic idea!

For more information on events at Lane Cove Council, lanecove.nsw.gov.au

Do you have any other creative ways to upcycyle denim? Check out my Pinterest page for more ideas!

And while you’re at it, follow me on Instagram!