Denim DIY's - 3 Ways To Revive Jeans

Denim DIY - 3 Ways To Revive Jeans

We are at the end of another winter in Melbourne and I am looking forward to seeing what my kneecaps and arms look like. I wore my jeans so relentlessly that they feel like part of my skin and they are now verging on their denim death. I don't want to look at the three pairs I have had on rotation all winter. In the name of DIY I looked at them straight in the eyelet to see what they needed to continue with life. Sometimes I feel like plain old denim limits my creativity with style. Even though I marvel at the way others wear denim and put their own spin on something so simple. I have been messing around with making small changes to spice up denim and give them an edge (literally). Here are 3 simple denim DIY's to add a little spice and rugged charm your jeans.

1. The Asymmetrical Edge Hem Frey

For this one you will need a pair of jeans, a pair of scissors and a washing machine. A measuring tape and pins help too. 

Step 1 - Cut the hem just above the stitching. Where you chose to cut depends on the length you are going for. Mine were already semi cropped so just above the stitching was perfect. 

Step 2 - Measure your desired front hem. I went for 2 inches. Pin it, then chop it.

Step 3 - Put them in a normal spin in the washing machine. This will give them a nice little frey. 

2. Sprinkle With Studs

For this one you will need some jeans, pliers, some studs (you can order yourself some at Studs and Spikes) and scissors or a utensil of choice to puncture holes help.

Step 1 - Arrange your studs in the pattern you like. I went pretty simple with this one.. zig zags or a star could be fun. 

Step 2 - Puncture your holes. It is easier if you insert the holes along the stitching line. The stitching also keeps you on track to keep your studs even, I counted six stitches between each stud. 

Sep 3 - Insert the studs and close over with your pliers. 

3. Off The Hook Charming 

For this one you will need some jeans, pliers and some charms, chains and jewellery hoops. It would also look very cute on a denim skirt. 

Step 1 - Hook the silver hoop onto the jean belt hoop, add your trinkets then close up with your pliers. 

No more steps. You are done. 

DIY - 29 Cent Double Layer Rat Tail Choker

DIY- 29 Cent Double Layer Rat Tail Choker 

Today I discovered Rat Tail thread, a satin thread that retails for a tiny 29 cents per meter. Unlike the name, it is actually super soft to wear as a choker, softer than leather.  I put together this simple little 90's choker using some dragon charms that have been waiting patiently in my beading box. The triangle piece was from my tool box. I believe it may have come with a picture frame. You you use pretty much anything. Have a dig around and see what you can find...think tassels, crystals, rings and charms. You will probably have something you can use so the choker will just cost 30 cents. I do appreciate the simplicity of that DIY black thread in a bow style choker that has been steaming up the internet lately. You know the one I am talking about. I added the double layer as I feel like it works well with lower necklines. 

You will need:

• 1 x Meter of Rat Tail. It retails for 29 cents per meter and you can pick it up from your local craft store. 
• 2 x Charms - think tassels, crystals, rings.  
• 2 x Silver rings to join the charms (optional) 
• Pliers (optional)

Step 1: Measure your rat tail around your neck. Check yourself out in the mirror and position where you would like your charms to sit, then cut the thread allowing an inch or two to tie it together. 

Step 2:  Start with the shortest layer. Thread your charm and tie a knot around it so it sits flat. You can use a silver ring if you like. Use your pliers to join the silver ring together. You will need to try it on check yourself out in the mirror again to make sure it is sitting where you want it.

Step 3: Once you have your first charm in place thread the second and tie the knot again. Once you are happy with both layers tie it at the back.