How to Make a Jean Purse

There are many types of purses made from old jeans. Perhaps the simplest type of purse to make is a jean leg purse. Made from the legs of an old pair of jeans, most of the stitching is already done, making this craft simple and fast. Use jeans that have embellishments on the legs for a fancier version.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Old pair of pants
• Scissors
• Sewing machine or needle and thread
• Fabric glue
• Embellishments

1. Cut off the bottom part of both legs on an old pair of jeans. Make the legs measure approximately 8 inches long without the hem. Cut the hem off the bottom of each leg.

2. Sew the bottom edge of one pant leg together, using a 1-inch seam allowance. Sew along the top edge of the purse to give it a finished edge, without sewing the top closed.

3. Make a fringe by cutting up to the seam every quarter of an inch. Do not cut into the seam. Do this on both the top and bottom edges of the purse. Use sharp sewing shears for the best results.

4. Mark and cut nine 3/4-inch strips from the other denim leg. Tie three of the strips together to make one long strip, repeating this to make a total of three strips. Braid the three long strips to form the purse strap.

5. Use the sewing machine to stitch the strap to the purse. Cut small hole on each side of the purse and tie the strap on when you do not have a sewing machine.

6. Toss the purse in the washing machine and then dry it to make the edges fray. Repeat this process two or three times to get the best look.

7. Embellish the denim jean purse with patches, jewels and/or buttons. Adhere the embellishments with a fabric glue such as Aleene's Jewel-it. Follow the manufacturer instructions on the fabric glue for washing.