👝 DIY Small Denim Crossbody Bag with Patchwork Accent (Using Old Jeans)

Absolutely! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step tutorial on how to make a DIY Small Denim Crossbody Bag with a Patchwork Accent using old jeans. This project is great for upcycling, stylish, and makes for a durable everyday bag with personality.

👝 DIY Small Denim Crossbody Bag with Patchwork Accent (Using Old Jeans)

🧵 MATERIALS NEEDED:

• Old denim jeans (legs, pockets, or waistband)

• Fabric scraps for patchwork (cotton, floral, printed)

• Lining fabric (cotton or canvas)

• Zipper or magnetic snap (optional)

• Adjustable strap (or make your own from denim)

• Interfacing (optional, for added structure)

• Thread (matching or contrasting)

• Sewing machine (or needle for hand sewing)

• Fabric scissors or rotary cutter

• Measuring tape or ruler

• Pins or clips

• Iron and ironing board

📏 FINISHED SIZE (Customizable):

Approximate: 9″ wide × 6.5″ tall × 1.5″ depth
(Adjust measurements depending on your denim size or needs.)

🧵 STEP-BY-STEP TUTORIAL:

STEP 1: ✂️ Cut Your Fabric Pieces

From Old Jeans:

• Front & Back Panels: 2 rectangles, 9” × 6.5”

• Bottom Panel: 1 rectangle, 9” × 1.5”

• Side Panels: 2 rectangles, 1.5” × 6.5”

• Optional: Use original jean pockets as decorative front/back pieces

From Patchwork Fabric:

• Small scraps: Cut various rectangles/squares (e.g., 2” × 2”, 3” × 2.5”)

• Arrange them into a 9” × 3” strip for a front panel accent

From Lining Fabric:

• Same sizes as above: front, back, bottom, and sides

• Inner pocket (optional): 6” × 4”

Strap:

• Store-bought adjustable strap or

• Make your own: 2” × 40” long denim strip, folded and stitched

STEP 2: 🧩 Make the Patchwork Accent Panel

1. Lay out your fabric scraps in a visually pleasing arrangement.

2. Sew the pieces together right sides facing with a ¼” seam allowance.

3. Press the seams flat.

4. Topstitch if desired.

5. Trim the patchwork piece to fit the 9” × 3” area for the front panel.

6. Attach this to the upper portion of the denim front panel using a straight stitch.

7. Optional: Add topstitching or a zigzag stitch for a rugged look.

STEP 3: 🪡 Assemble the Outer Bag Body

1. Attach side and bottom panels to the front piece, right sides together. Sew and press seams.

2. Repeat with the back panel, forming a “U”-shaped structure.

3. Topstitch all seams for durability and a finished look.

4. Optional: Sew jean pocket onto the back for extra functionality.

STEP 4: 🧵 Prepare the Lining

1. Sew inner pocket (if using) onto one of the lining panels.

2. Sew side and bottom panels to the lining front and back, leaving a 2” gap at the bottom to turn the bag inside out later.

STEP 5: 🎒 Strap and Closure

If using a store-bought strap:

• Sew or rivet D-rings to both upper side seams.

• Attach strap hooks to the D-rings.

If making a denim strap:

1. Fold the 2” × 40” denim strip in half lengthwise.

2. Fold raw edges to the center and press.

3. Stitch along both long edges for strength.

4. Attach both ends to side seams or D-rings.

Closure Options:

• Add a zipper across the top, between outer and lining fabric (requires zipper foot)

• OR attach a magnetic snap to the top middle area of both lining panels

STEP 6: 🧵 Assemble and Finish

1. Place the outer bag and lining right sides together, aligning all edges.

2. Sew around the top opening.

3. Pull the entire bag through the hole in the lining.

4. Stitch the lining gap closed by hand or machine.

5. Push the lining inside and press the bag edges flat.

6. Topstitch around the opening for a neat finish.

🎉 FINISHING TOUCHES (Optional):

• Add lace, buttons, or embroidery to the patchwork area.

• Use contrast thread for a bolder, handmade look.

• Decorate with iron-on patches or denim rivets.

👜 USE CASES:

• Everyday crossbody bag

• Lightweight travel purse

• Handmade gift

• Farmers’ market or festival bag

Watch video: