Top
Subscribe for free and never miss a post

Upcycled Denim Pocket Purse from Jeans

Hey friends! Today is Reduce, Reuse, REFASHION time where the last Tuesday of each month I share a fun way to upcycle, reuse, repurpose items into fashion, home decor and more. Today, I’m all about those old jeans and giving them a new life as an upcycled denim pocket purse.

Reduce, Reuse, REFASHION series hosted by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | Come learn to create for you and your home | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

These are a pair of my husband’s old jeans with holes in the seat. Don’t ask me how those got there? ahem. However, instead of chucking them into the trash, there is a whole lotta fabric that still has perfect upcycling purpose.

Worn Jeans Before Upcycled Denim Purse Project by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

While I could give you limitless options how to use it all, I’m going to only focus on utilizing those pockets today. Again, the options are limitless to how you can tweak out a cute little purse.

Handmade Pocket Purses from Upcycled Denim Pocket Purses | Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #handmade #crafts #diy #tutorial #refashion #upcycle #fashion

For fun and ease of teaching, I’ve created a video tutorial for you below. However, if you prefer written instructions, I have those for you here as well.

DIY TIME

I’m tellin’ ya these are so easy to put together that your kids and your aged family will have fun joining you. Just think how fun it is to make a gift out of a loved one’s clothing…a sweet gift to cherish.

TERMS OF USE: when you make these upcycled denim purse pockets you agree to the following: it cannot be shared or distributed for monetary gain in any way, it may not be modified in any way, and you may not claim the work as your own.

Ready to get started? Here’s what you’ll need:

Materials:
  • pair of jean (or any pants) pockets
  • coordinating thread
  • zipper the size of the pocket top edge (approx. 6″, depending on pocket)
  • scrap fabric or leather for strap
  • zipper pull, fringe, beads, etc.
  • hook hardware for belt-loop purse design, if preferred
Tools:
  • sewing machine with zipper foot (usually included with machine) and denim or heavy duty needle
  • fabric scissors
  • snips (optional, but oh so handy)
  • sewing pins

STEP 1

First, you’ll want to cut out the pocket by trimming as close to the edges as possible. We will tweak it once it’s out, so need to be super neat.

Cutting Jean Pockets for DIY Denim Pocket Purse | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Once pocket is removed, take your snips (or scissors) and trim the edges as shown.

Trimming Denim Pocket with Snips | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Then, remove the back side of the pocket. Save that for later as it will make a perfect coin purse (see video demo).

Trimming Back Pocket for Purse | prodigalpieces.com

STEP 2

Next, grab the appropriate length zipper and your pocket pieces. Your zipper can be longer than the pocket, even largely so, but just not smaller. Place the pockets and zipper face up on a flat surface.

DIY Denim Pocket Purse Layout | prodigalpieces.com

Leave enough room around the zipper teeth for the zipper head to be able to pass by. Pin and then stitch down one side of the pocket to the zipper using your zipper foot. You can use coordinating or contrasting thread – that’s up to you. I like to play it by ear.

Zipper Foot for Sewing Machine | prodigalpieces.com

Stitch in the Ditch Denim Purse | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

If I’m trying to hide my stitches, I “stitch in the ditch” by going over the existing stitches. Sometimes I want a color contrast so I create a totally new pass. Repeat by attaching the other pocket side in the same manner

STEP 3

In this step (or in the previous step) you can add embellishments to your pockets. Have fun with it! Embroider, add buttons, paint a design, add a patch…you get the idea.

I even grabbed these fun thrifted scarves so I could take off the fringe to make fun additions to my purses. No worries, I removed it and then stitched the ends so my kids could use the scarves still. We have dress-up box of scarves they have a blast using for pretend play.

Thrifted Scarves for Upcycled Denim Pocket Purse Trim | prodigalpieces.com

STEP 4

Last, we want to stitch our purse closed. You can use pins or sewing clips to hold it all together. It’s at this time you can add whatever hardware you choose to use: belt-loop hooks, D-rings for a strap, or just add a wristlet to the zipper. (see video or finished photos for reference) Stitch along the seams making sure to reinforce where hardware is added.

Denim Pocket Purse Stitch Layout | Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

FINISHED PURSES

Here are my finished upcycled denim pocket purses all ready to go in their different styles.

Handmade Beige Belt-Loop Purse Created by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #handmade #fashion #style #diy #purse #bag #women

Handmade Denim Pocket Purse Wristlet with Coral Accents by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #handmade #fashion #style #diy #purse #bag #women

Upcycled Denim Pocket Purse Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

These were so fun to make. Can you tell I had a blast giving them their each own bit of flair. Which one is your favorite?

Dark Denim Handbag Made from Jean Pockets with Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #handmade #fashion #style #women #purse #bag #boho #farmhouse

DIY Belt-Loop Purse with Pink Accents by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #handmade #fashion #style

Blue Jean Pocket Purse made from Old Jeans | Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #sewing #crafts #fashion #purse #bag #upcycle

As for colors, I’m loving them all. However, as for the design, the belt-loop are my choice. As the norm, I don’t like to carry a purse and really only do during the summer months. So, the fact that this purse is able to attach to my clothing is super handy (& super cute!).

Cute Belt-Loop Beige Purse made from Upcycled Denim Jeans by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #fashion #crafts #style #women #bags

While I’ve kept my instructions to the bare minimum, I’m always eager to help, so feel free to ask my any questions.

If you’re interested in any of my purses, you can find them and much more available in my online shop.

Shop Prodigal Pieces Furniture, Vintage Finds, Handmade Goods, & Supplies for your home | shop.prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Handmade Upcycled Denim Pocket Purse Selection Created by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #handmade #crafts #fashion #style #boho #farmhouse

Also, pin and share my upcycled denim pocket purse fun to inspire others to give DIY a try. It’s fun, frugal, and fashionable. 🙂

You can create these upcycled denim pocket purses with this video tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #sewing #crafts #diy #fashion #style #women #boho #farmhouse

Up next, I’ll be taking this primitive bin and then reviving it with some vintage style. See the new look HERE.

Primitive Bin Before Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!

blog signature

While you’re at it, here are more refashion fun like my upcycled denim pocket purse:

Take those outgrown or worn-out baby bib overalls and upcycle them into a DIY doorstop | Reduce, Reuse, REFASHION time at Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #homedecor #handmade #upcycle #diyHandmade Feedsack, Linen, and Leather Purse by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Comments

  1. Angie says

    Oh my gosh they are adorable! I’m seeing in my mind some cute beaded flowers on them! Yep it’s always beads for me.

    • Larissa says

      You are so fun, Angie! Yes, I adore beads too. I wanted to embellish, but ran out of gas on working on 6 of them. whew!

  2. Margaret says

    These are super cute! Thanks for sharing your awesome ideas.

    • Larissa says

      You are sweet to say so, Margaret. My pleasure to share. 😀

  3. Cheryl Ledford-bonner says

    Larissa these are my favorites.

  4. Marie says

    Love Love Love these Larissa! What a wonderful way to recycle denim pockets. I especially love the ones that clip onto belt loops because like you, I prefer not carrying a purse. Pinned 🙂

    • Larissa says

      Great minds hate purses alike! 😀 haha. I don’t hate them, but love to sew them. Go figure…

  5. Colleen B. says

    Super, super cute.
    Great little bag to carry any medication that you may need when out and about.
    No zipper foot, but thought maybe using velcro strips to secure it shut.

    • Larissa says

      great idea! Thank you, Colleen. I’ve done many zippers back in the day with no zipper foot. You just need a slightly wider path.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Client Love

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

~ Laurel

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:34:13-04:00

~ Laurel

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

~ Stephanie

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:39:34-04:00

~ Stephanie

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

~ Mikki

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:43:16-04:00

~ Mikki

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

Awww…I love this sweet Cat with an attitude!! SO SO adorable! Well worth the money, and he will become a priceless treasure in my home! Thanks Larissa for always making your ideas turn into true treasures!

~ Sharon

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:45:37-04:00

~ Sharon

Awww…I love this sweet Cat with an attitude!! SO SO adorable! Well worth the money, and he will become a priceless treasure in my home! Thanks Larissa for always making your ideas turn into true treasures!

Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!

~ Deanna

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:52:00-04:00

~ Deanna

Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!
0
0
Prodigal Pieces