How to Upcycle Jeans into a Handbag
I am in my final jeans upcycling project for this round of jeans projects. I have decided to make another upcycled jeans handbag that is simple to make and uses the top part of the jeans. It is a fun and functional simple sewing project that a strong beginner or intermediate sewist should be able to accomplish. I really wanted to keep that jeans look for this bag so I left all of the pockets. This is just one of many jeans projects that I have done if you would like to see more check out these.
I used an old pair pf jeans and some quilting cotton for the lining that I purchased at JOANN Fabric & Craft Stores
. Of course you can head to fabric.com or onlinefabricstore.net to get your lining fabric for this project. This post contains affiliate links that if you click on them I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
What you will Need: How to Upcyce Jeans into a Handbag
- Jeans
- 1/2 yd lining fabric
- 14″ zipper
- Jeans needle for your machine
Step 1: Cut your Jeans
Cut the top off your jeans so that they measure 14″ W x 13″ H as shown. Cut two strips that measure 14″ x 3″ and two that measure 4″ 20″. Finally, cut a lining piece that measures 14″ W x 15 1/2″ H.
Step 2: Cut out the Corners
Measure 2″ x 2″ squares and cut put the corners of your jeans and your lining.
Step 3: Add the Zipper Placket
Take the 14″ x 3″ pieces and place them right sides together with the top of the jeans and stitch them using a 1/4″ seam allowance.
Step 4: Add the Zipper
Place the jeans right sides up on your work station. Lay the zipper right sides down on the jeans and the lining right sides down on the zipper. Pin. Stitch the zipper through all layers. Turn right sides out. press open and topstitch along the zipper. Repeat for the other side of the zipper.
Step 5: Create the Handles
Fold under the short edges and press. Then, fold the long raw edges of the handles to the center and press. Fold in half to enclose the raw edges and press. Stitch along both sides.
Step 6: Add the Handles
Measure in 3″ from each side and 1″ up from the placket seam and place the handles. Stitch the handles using to the jeans in a box formation to secure.
Step 7: Stitch the Jeans Handbag
Place the jeans right sides together and the lining right sides together. Stitch along the sides and the bottom leaving an opening in the lining for turning. Make sure that the zipper is part way open for turning.
Step 8: Box the Corners
Pinch the bottom to the sides so that you create a seam line at the corners. Stitch along that line using a 1/4″ seam allowance. Do this formal four corners.
Step 9: Turn Right Sides Out
Turn the bag right sides out through the opening in the lining and the open zipper. Stitch the opening closed. You have now finished your up cycled jeans handbag.
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