By Alyssa Musa.
Denim looks amazing, no doubt, but it’s awful for the environment. To be specific, denim production exploits Earth's natural resources. In fact, it takes 1,800 liters to grow the cotton required to make just one pair of jeans! Therefore, it is extremely important that we give our denim the longest life possible. By upcycling worn-out denim (and other textiles) into useful everyday products, we buy less textiles and encourage the fashion industry to slow down textile production - which is extremely high right now due to the rise of fast fashion. Slower textile production minimizes greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. With that being said, check out these amazing, simple denim upcycling ideas from décor to organization to everyday items. Not a crafter or don't have much time? Don't worry! There are many simpler ideas that require little time and zero crafting skill (like the apron, napkin rings, and storage boxes)! Happy DIYing!
Wall Organizer
Want some vertical storage? Try making this fun wall organizer! It is easy to customize: have as many or as little pockets as you like, and almost anything can make the background: a corkboard, fabric of a color you like, more old denim, whatever you like! Have a lot of different pairs of run-down jeans? Don't worry, this still looks cool with different sized and styled pockets too!
Easy Denim Pouch
This cute little pouch makes the perfect pencil case or makeup bag, and it's so easy to make! Great if you're looking for something fast and simple!
Basket
Use the felled seams of your jeans to make a simple basket that you can use for décor purposes, or as the article suggests, for holding painted easter eggs!
Jean Tote
Tote bags make a great carry all; you can bring them to the grocery store, the mall, the beach, school - basically anywhere! All the plastic you save, ahh. The environment will really thank you for making this one. Learn how to make your own denim tote bag here!
Gift Tags
Perfect for using up the scraps leftover from a larger project! Use these denim gift tags to personalize a gift for any occasion!
Coasters
Liven up the coffee table space with some denim coasters! Check out the lovely woven pattern! Contrary to what you might think, there's no sewing required!
Apron
Are you a messy chef? Or are you done with flour somehow getting all over your clothes when you bake? If so, try making this neat apron for yourself from Creative Green Living!
Cardboard Denim Boxes
Wrap some denim around cardboard and you end up with these stunning boxes! Customize it the way you like with some stencils and paint!
Magazine Rack
I love this idea! It's simple, yet fun all while adding character to your home! If you already have some sort of rack that is able to disassemble, feel free to use that instead of running to Home Depot!
Indoor Herb Garden Planters
Or, if you're looking for a different style, check out this link!
Jean Cuffs/Bracelets
I never thought about this, but you can easily turn any jean waistband into a pretty bracelet or jean cuff. Pair it with some lace and you're all set! Also, since this project is something you wear, it's a good way to remember an old, worn-down pair of jeans that you really loved!
DIY Denim Table Runner
I LOVE this table runner! The stenciled pattern just fills my heart with joy! If you think your dining table looks a little plain, why not make this? Keep in mind, this table runner doesn't only need to be made for a table. You could definitely adjust the size to line a dresser in your room, a shelf or to decorate a wall!
Denim Ottoman
Got a crate sitting around? Why not turn it in to an ottoman? I love how this project serves as seating and storage!
Photo Frames
These photo frames are made solely of jean belt hoops or seams, and it looks pretty cool, don't you think!
Denim Quilt
Up for a big project? Try making this DIY quilt! There is a very small chance that you have enough worn-out jeans to make this. But, if this really speaks to you, try collecting more run-down jeans from your friends and family (with their permission, of course) and you just might end up with a beautiful quilt of your own! Or, you can always make a small quilt, perhaps for a younger sibling. You'll notice that this quilt is made of pastel-colored jeans, but it will still look amazing in just blue!
Final Thoughts
If you're not keen on upcycling, that alright. Just be sure to donate your unwanted denim products to local textile recycling bins (if you have them). Speaking of textile recycling, I made a petition to make Textile Recycling Programs Ontario-wide! I would really appreciate your signature! The link is here. Thank you!
On a closing note, I hope this article has left you feeling excited and inspired to continue or begin your upcycling journey and a journey to sustainable-living overall. If you enjoyed this article, be sure to like and subscribe! For more eco-friendly content, visit Shelbizlee and Going Zero Waste!
Of course, feel free to share this article on social or via link with friends and family who are all about sustainability!
As always, thanks so much for reading and catch us again soon with some brand-new eco articles!
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