Upcycled Denim Jacket

Learn how to upcycle a denim jacket by adding contrasting fabric as an accent! Choose your favourite contrasting fabric and play with the placement for a fun effect!

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What you need:

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Denim Jacket
39" (1m) Contrasting Fabric
Ruler
Thread
Sewing Machine

Tips before you start

It’s a good idea to pre-wash and press natural fibre fabrics before you start, because it will shrink and wrinkle.
Decide approximately where to add the contrasting fabric on the denim jacket before cutting or marking.
Try sewing with a scrap piece of your chosen fabric before sewing your project pieces. Adjust your tension, stitch length, and needle type accordingly.
If there is a pattern on the contrasting fabric, be mindful of this when cutting for best results.

Fabric Recommendations

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Instructions

Step 1: Visualize the contrasting fabric placement

Lay the jacket flat and drape the contrasting fabric on top of the area of the denim jacket to be covered.

Step 2: Chalk outline for contrasting fabric

Once the contrasting fabric is positioned where you would like it to be on the jacket, trace the jacket seams onto the contrasting fabric.

Step 3: Cut the contrasting fabric

Cut the fabric on the chalk line.

Step 4: Create the cutouts

Measure and mark ½” (2.5cm) away from the denim jacket seams inside of each panel. You will be sewing the contrasting fabric onto this extra ½” (2.5cm) seam allowance in the next steps. After marking, cut each section out along your chalk lines.

Step 5: Pin the contrasting fabric pieces inside the jacket

Place the contrasting fabric inside the cut area of the denim jacket with cut edges of the contrasting fabric visible only on the inside of the jacket. Centre and pin in place.

Step 6: Zig zag stitch the jacket and contrasting fabric together

Use the zig zag stitch on your sewing machine with the settings listed below. Zig zag along the cut edge of the denim using the same colour of thread as your jacket. The stitching will only be visible on the jacket seam allowance. Position the jacket so when the needle lands on the left, it lands on the cut edge of the jacket. Stitch as close to the edge as possible.

Note: Stitch Width Size 2 x Stitch Length Size 2.5.

Step 7: Trim excess

Turn and trim excess contrasting fabric to clean up your seams.

Project completed

Enjoy your UpCycled Denim Jacket! You can mix and match many different fabrics while using this technique! Don’t be afraid to be creative!

Note: All products might not be available at all store locations. To find a suitable product alternative for your project, please ask a store team member for assistance.