5 Clever Denim Crafts to Make with Your Donation Pile of Jeans

Published on August 25, 2025

The rugged, lived-in texture of your favorite denim jacket or pair of jeans has a classic essence worth preserving. Instead of throwing the pieces you've outgrown into your donation bin, upcycle them into stylish and functional crafts. From a clever TikTok-inspired wall organizer to denim totes and garden aprons, these DIYs make good use of your trusty old blue jeans.

1. Jean Pocket Wall Organizer

A TikTok post from Maddie Green (@itsmaddiegreen) showcases a genius way to elevate a simple back pocket into chic wall decor. Cut out your pocket with enough edge fabric to fit snugly into a picture frame. Remove the glass, nestle the denim inside, and reassemble the frame to create a stylish organizer to hold essentials you can grab before heading out the door. This project requires almost no tools, takes minutes to make, and adds instant personality to any entryway, bedroom, or office.

2. Tote Bag

Turn old jeans into a durable, everyday tote with minimal sewing. Combine fabric from legs or back panels to craft roomy bags perfect for groceries, books, or beach days. Add sturdy straps, ideally repurposed from belt loops, and you’ve got a heavy-duty, eco-friendly carryall. By reusing pockets for the interior, you can keep essentials organized while giving your bag a distinctive, one-of-a-kind look.

3. Headbands and Accessories

Turn strips of denim into headbands or hair wraps in just a few steps. Cut pieces from leg seams or belt loops, wrap them around elastic, and stitch or glue them into place. You can leave them plain for a minimal look or decorate with vintage jean buttons, embroidery, or small fabric flowers. These accessories are perfect for casual outfits and make fun, handmade gifts.

4. Gardening Apron

Transform the bottom half of your jeans into a durable and practical gardening apron or tool belt. Cut off the legs, open the side seams, and keep the waistband and rear pockets intact. The pockets can store seed packets, gloves, or small tools, while the waistband provides a comfortable fit. The thick denim stands up to heavy use, making it ideal for outdoor activities and chores.

5. Denim Coasters

Repurpose your leftover denim into handmade coasters to protect your furniture and add a charming touch to your table. Cut circles or squares from sturdy sections of your clothing, then layer two pieces together for extra thickness. Stitch around the edges with contrasting thread or finish with fabric glue to prevent fraying. You can even mix light and dark washes for a patchwork effect that looks great under coffee mugs or cocktail glasses.

Getting Started: Basic Tips

• Wash before cutting: Hot-wash denim to remove excess dye and soften the fabric.
• Use the right tools: Have sharp fabric scissors, a seam ripper, and a denim needle on hand; fabric glue can be useful for no-sew projects.
• Prevent fraying: Finish edges with bias tape, a zigzag stitch, or a fray-preventing sealant.
• Save the scraps: Even small pieces like belt loops, seams, and buttons can be reused for embellishments or smaller projects.