Did you know over a billion pairs of jeans are tossed out each year? That’s a huge amount of denim heading to landfills—when you could upcycle old jeans into stunning home décor instead! Most people stick to the usual cut-offs or a basic tote bag, but denim’s durability makes it perfect for unexpected, design-forward projects that pair beautifully with your favorite upcycled furniture.
Why Upcycle Old Jeans?
Let’s start with the why. Creating just one pair of jeans uses around 1,800 gallons of water—enough for almost two months of daily showers! Upcycling denim saves money and helps the environment, just like furniture upcycling reduces waste and carbon emissions.
It’s also budget-friendly. Just like flipping a thrifted $20 dresser into a showpiece, transforming worn denim into décor is an affordable way to refresh your space and showcase your creativity.
7 Stylish Ways to Upcycle Old Jeans
1. Denim Upholstered Stool
Turn a plain stool into a showstopper by covering the seat with upcycled denim. Cut a circle slightly larger than the seat, remove thick seams, and staple it underneath. Denim’s durability makes it ideal for daily use.
Styling Tip: Pair it with a chalk-painted side table for rustic charm.
2. Patchwork Denim Throw Pillows
Mix different denim shades and textures to create cozy patchwork pillows. Use back pockets, seams, and even tags for added personality.
Styling Tip: These look amazing on a neutral couch or vintage bench.
3. Denim-Wrapped Planters
Wrap strips of old jeans around basic planters using Mod Podge. Seal for a water-safe finish that adds texture and warmth to your greenery.
Styling Tip: Display on an upcycled shelf for extra charm.
4. Braided Denim Rug
Cut your jeans into long strips and braid them together. Coil and stitch into a circle or oval for a washable, durable rug.
Styling Tip: Place under a repurposed coffee table to ground the space.
5. Framed Denim Wall Art
Frame squares of denim in embroidery hoops or wood frames. Add embellishments or keep them minimal to highlight the natural fading and wear.
Styling Tip: Perfect above a distressed dresser or gallery wall.
6. DIY Denim Curtain Tiebacks
Use belt loops or seams to create unique curtain tiebacks. Add buttons, beads, or leather cord for detail.
Styling Tip: Looks beautiful with linen curtains and wooden curtain rods.
7. Handmade Denim Coasters
Cut circles from sturdy denim areas like back pockets. Attach to cork bases, stitch the edges, and seal to protect against fraying.
Styling Tip: Store in a mini crate made from upcycled wood for a unified look.
Design Pairings for Your Upcycled Denim Projects
Your upcycled old jeans décor works best when paired with other textures and tones. Try these style combos:
Rustic Farmhouse: Pair denim pillows and a braided rug with whitewashed or vintage wood pieces.
Industrial Vibes: Combine indigo denim planters with black metal and reclaimed wood.
Coastal Cool: Use light-washed denim against a palette of ocean blues and sandy whites.
As with any upcycling project, aim for harmony in color and material while letting your personality shine.
Start Snipping—and Upcycle Old Jeans Into Something Beautiful
Don’t let your old jeans gather dust. Whether you’re crafting pillows, planters, or art, choosing to upcycle old jeans is a stylish, sustainable way to refresh your space—and reduce textile waste while you’re at it.
Already made something you love? Tag your creations with #UpcycleThat to join our community of creative repurposers! For more ideas, check out how to upcycle jean jackets!
