Don't retire those old worn out jeans so fast! You can upcycle them into a playful denim maxi masterpiece. Follow these easy steps to transform yours according to your style.
Supplies Needed:
- 2 pair of Jeans of equal weight and wear
- (*1 will be main one will be the donor)
- Pins
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- (Optional) ric rack or lace trim
Step 1:
Lay out the main jeans, and cut up the inseam, and cut 1" up the fly region. This ensures the fly fabric will lie flat. No one wants a pucker in that region.
Step 2:
- Cut the legs off of your donor pair, Cut as close to the back pockets without cutting into them.
- Set aside. These become your central panels.
Step 3:
- Insert the legs cut from your donor pair and place into the legs of the main pair.
- Align center seam with the fly seam.
- Pin from the bottom creating an even hem.
- If by chance the bottom of your donor pair were worn, you can always apply ric rac or trim as I did.
Step 4:
Sew along the gorge line. Removing pins as you go. When you get to fly region criss cross over each other to once again, ensure the fly placket stays flat.
You've just created the front central panel.
Step 5:
Turn and trim excess denim.
Step 6:
Repeat the same steps for the back panel. Don't forget to criss cross the back placket in the same step used in the front.
Step 7:
Sew along the gorge line once again. Sewing the final central panel in place. 
Step 8:
Turn right side out and trim excess. After turning and trimming do not forget to trim excess back placket. You dont want a bulge in this area.
Step 9:
Iron.
Step 10:
Step back and appreciate your work!
Transforming those old Jeans into a maxi masterpiece using whatever fabric panel makes you feel creative.Use patches, buttons ric rac and more.
I'd love to see your creations.
(written by Stephanie Tharp)
