Reworked denim: Make a shoulder bag or purse from old jeans

A simple and practical sewing workshop on how to turn your old jeans into a side bag or purse.

Denim is a tough, long-lasting fabric that often outlives the jeans it was made into. Even when worn out at the knees or seams, most of the material is still strong and usable.

In the session you'll use simple hand-sewing techniques to repurpose a pair of old jeans into a unique and functional shoulder bag, small tote, or purse. After making your bag, we'll share ideas for individualising the final product by adding embellishments like embroidery, sashiko or haberdashery items.

No previous sewing experience or skills required, as you can make your bag as simple or complex as you like.

Bring along an old pair of jeans (from home or the op shop) and learn a simple, sustainable way to give them new purpose.

What are the benefits

• Reduce waste: Millions of tonnes of textiles, including denim, end up in landfill each year. Repurposing helps keep valuable material in use.

• Save resources: It takes thousands of litres of water and significant energy to produce just one pair of jeans. Extending their life conserves those resources.

• Gain durable materials: Denim’s strength makes it ideal for practical, hardwearing projects that can last for years.

• Develop repair and reuse skills: Learning to hand-stitch and repurpose materials builds confidence and supports a more circular, sustainable lifestyle.

• Avoid new purchases: Making useful items like bags, tool rolls, or aprons from old jeans saves money and reduces demand for new goods.

What to bring

• an old pair of jeans (from home or the op shop) - preferrably ones that are no longer wearable

• any patches, trims or other personalised items you'd like to include

• your own sewing kit if you're more comfortable using it (we'll have plenty of needles and thread on the day)

Who is it for?

This session is for anyone wanting to reduce textile waste, sew unique new creations, and learn artistic ways to restyle and personalise their clothes.

By creating beautiful, individual pieces, we add value to existing objects and ensure they stay loved and appreciated for years to come.

Additional info

• Children over 12 are welcome if accompanied by an adult. 

• The session will be held indoors.

• We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible event environment for all attendees. If you have accessibility or inclusion concerns regarding this event, contact us about how we can help.
  

The REthink Nillumbik program is funded by Nillumbik Shire Council and supported by Edendale Community Environment Farm and NECAH (Nillumbik Environment and Climate Action Hub). The project will be delivered by Going Green Solutions and supports Council's climate action goal of net-zero community emissions by 2035.

Image by Freepik