by If you have a pair of old jeans lying around, don’t toss them just yet. With a little creativity and basic sewing skills, you can transform those worn-out jeans into a stylish and functional shoulder bag. Denim is a durable material that lends itself perfectly to bag-making, and the various elements of jeans — pockets, seams, and belt loops — can all be reused to give your bag character and charm.
This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from gathering materials to sewing the final stitches.
Why Make a Shoulder Bag from Old Jeans?
Upcycling old denim has numerous benefits:
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces textile waste and supports sustainable living.
- Durable Material: Denim is thick and long-lasting.
- Unique Design: Each bag can be personalized — no two are alike.
- Cost-Effective: No need to buy new fabric.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
Materials:
- 1 pair of old jeans (adult size recommended for more fabric)
- Coordinating cotton fabric (for lining)
- Fusible interfacing (optional, for added structure)
- Thread (heavy-duty or denim thread is ideal)
- Magnetic snap, button, or zipper for closure
- Strap material (reuse denim, or use webbing/leather for a stronger strap)
- Optional: decorative elements (lace, patches, embroidery)
Tools:
- Sewing machine (heavy-duty needle for denim)
- Fabric scissors
- Seam ripper
- Pins or clips
- Iron and ironing board
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Chalk or fabric marker
Step 1: Prepare the Denim
1. Cut the Jeans
Start by laying your jeans flat on a surface. Decide which parts you want to use. Good areas include:
- Thighs and seat (largest, flattest pieces)
- Pockets (great for exterior storage)
- Waistband and belt loops (can be repurposed as straps or decoration)
Use scissors to cut the jeans along the seams to separate the front and back panels.
2. Choose Your Design
You can make a simple tote-style shoulder bag, a flap bag, or a rounded sling bag. For beginners, a rectangular or square tote style is easiest.
Step 2: Cut the Bag Pieces
For a basic shoulder bag, cut the following:
- 2 main exterior pieces: approx. 14″ x 12″ each
- 2 lining pieces: same size as exterior
- 1 or 2 denim pockets: optional (cut with surrounding fabric intact)
- 1 strap: approx. 40-50″ long by 2.5-3″ wide (can be pieced together)
- Optional: interfacing pieces to match the main body pieces
Tips:
- Be mindful of direction — denim has a grain just like other fabrics.
- Use chalk to mark cutting lines, especially on dark fabric.
- If piecing the strap from scraps, sew pieces together with a sturdy zigzag or flat-felled seam.
Step 3: Add Pockets and Decorative Elements
Exterior Pockets:
- If you saved back pockets, stitch them onto one of the exterior pieces now.
- Pin the pocket(s) in place, aligning them evenly.
- Sew along the edges, reinforcing at the top corners.
Decorative Touches:
- Add fabric patches, embroidery, or lace trim before assembling the bag.
- Use belt loops as pen holders or hang keychains.
Step 4: Assemble the Exterior Bag
1. Attach Interfacing (Optional)
If you want a structured bag, iron fusible interfacing onto the wrong side of the denim pieces.
2. Sew the Bag Body
- Place the two exterior pieces right sides together.
- Sew along the sides and bottom with a 1/2″ seam allowance.
- Finish the seams with a zigzag stitch or serger if desired.
3. Box the Bottom Corners (Optional)
To give the bag depth:
- Pinch each bottom corner into a triangle.
- Measure about 2″ from the tip and draw a line across.
- Sew across this line and trim off the tip.
Step 5: Assemble the Lining
Repeat the same process for the lining fabric:
- Sew sides and bottom.
- Box the corners if you did so on the outer bag.
- Leave a 3-4” gap at the bottom of the lining for turning the bag later.
Step 6: Make the Strap
You have several strap options:
Denim Strap:
- Cut a long strip of denim, fold it in half lengthwise (wrong sides together), then fold raw edges inward and press.
- Topstitch along both sides.
Alternative Materials:
- Use a ready-made cotton webbing, leather belt, or upcycled purse strap.
- Secure ends with reinforced stitching or rivets.
Step 7: Attach the Strap and Assemble the Bag
1. Attach the Strap
- Pin the strap ends to the right side of the exterior bag, making sure it’s not twisted.
- Position the ends 2-3 inches from the side seams.
- Baste in place with a 1/4″ seam.
2. Join Lining and Exterior
- Turn the exterior bag right side out.
- Keep the lining inside out.
- Slip the exterior into the lining so right sides are together, and the strap is tucked inside.
3. Sew the Top Edge
- Pin around the top edge, aligning side seams.
- Sew completely around the top.
Step 8: Turn and Finish
1. Turn the Bag
- Carefully pull the bag through the opening in the lining.
- Push the lining down into the bag.
2. Topstitch the Edge
- Press the top edge and topstitch around the opening for a clean finish and added durability.
3. Close the Lining Hole
- Sew the opening in the lining by hand or machine.
Step 9: Add Closure
Choose a closure method:
- Magnetic snap: Add before sewing the lining if possible.
- Zipper: More advanced but secure.
- Button and loop: Simple and rustic.
Optional: Add Internal Pockets
If you want internal organization:
- Before assembling the lining, sew small patch pockets from leftover denim or lining fabric onto the lining pieces.
Final Tips and Variations
- Double-layer the strap for strength.
- Mix denim shades for a patchwork look.
- Use different pocket shapes for variety.
- Add a key fob loop inside the bag.
Conclusion
Sewing a shoulder bag out of old jeans is a fun, rewarding project that helps reduce waste and lets your creativity shine. Whether you’re new to sewing or a seasoned maker, denim bags offer the perfect canvas to experiment with style, structure, and functionality. Plus, every time you carry your handmade creation, you’ll be reminded of the satisfying transformation from old clothing to a brand-new, practical item.
So dig out those jeans and start stitching — your next favorite bag is waiting to be made!
Video tutorial:
