Find new uses for the clothes you don’t wear anymore with these 30+ upcycled clothing ideas. From rugs to tote bags, this list has something for everyone!
Ever looked at your favorite worn out clothing piece thought, ‘If only you could live a second life as something else?’
Well, guess what? That’s not just wishful thinking – it’s the heart of upcycling!
And today, we’re diving headfirst into the world of upcycled clothing ideas, where your old wardrobe favorites get to make their grand re-entrance as something entirely new.
For example: I have a very special pleather jacket. She and I have been through a lot together. It’s so soft and comfy that it’s practically molded to my body.
But alas, time and wear have taken their toll, particularly on the collar and cuffs. However, I’m not ready to say goodbye just yet. Instead, I’m transforming it into a chic handbag!
Yes, you heard that right – a handbag! The rest of the jacket is still in prime condition, ready to embark on its new journey.
But why stop at handbags? The world of fashion crafts is as vast as your imagination. That old t-shirt you can’t bear to part with? It’s screaming to be turned into a quirky pillow or a stylish tote bag.
The pair of jeans that fit just right but are fraying at the edges? They’re practically begging to become a funky denim apron or a set of coasters.
Think about it – upcycling clothing is not just a fabulous way to unleash your creativity; it’s also an eco-friendly fashion statement.
You get to reduce waste, save a few bucks, and have a blast while doing it. It’s a win-win-win situation!
I’ve scoured the creative corners of the internet and compiled over 30 tutorials that are brimming with ingenuity.
From no-sew hacks to easy sewing projects, there’s an upcycled idea for every skill level. They’re unique, they’re stylish, and they’re waiting for you to give them a whirl.
And hey, if crafting isn’t your jam, remember that donating your clothes is always a fantastic option. It’s all about giving your clothes a second chance, be it through recycling or finding them a new home.
Now, are you ready to transform your wardrobe rejects into your next favorite thing? Let’s do this!
Pick a project from the list below (or two, or three), and share your upcycling adventures in the comments. I can’t wait to see what you come up with!
Upcycled Clothing Ideas
Find new uses for clothing you don't wear anymore. Here are over 25 ways to upcycle old clothes you are going to love!
Reupholster a Chair with Colorful Denim
Reupholster a chair and give it a bright and fun new ‘seat.’ This is really easy to do, and we’re going to show you how . . . with a pair of upcycled denim pants!
Rug from Old Blue Jeans
Use up some old jeans and scrap yarn to make a beautiful rag rug. I love all of the colors and how the denim unites them all!
Throw Pillow from Baby Clothes
Sonja came up with a great idea for baby clothes! Instead of storing them away in the basement, she repurposed some of the outfits into a throw pillow. It's a perfect way to be reminded of those precious moments on a daily basis.
Infinity Scarf from a T-Shirt
If you want to learn how to make an infinity scarf, this is the easiest and quickest way to do it! You’ll only spend pennies on this simple project.
Handbag from a Sweater
See how to make this awesome handbag using an old sweater and long sleeve shirt. It is an easy sewing project!
Grocery Tote from a T-Shirt
This no sew t-shirt tote bag made from old t-shirts can be whipped up in just ten minutes! It's perfect as a DIY tote or farmer's market bag.
PS - if you know how to sew, here's another version.
Table Runner from Jeans
Find out how to make a unique denim table runner using your old jeans. You'll use both legs of the jeans, a stencil and paint.
Cup Sleeve from a Sweater
Keep your hands from burning on your morning coffee with this easy DIY project. You'll only use the cuffs of the sweater so you can use the rest to make something else . . . maybe a pillow?
Denim Bunting from Old Jeans
If you have denim scraps left over from upcycling jeans in another project, it’s easy to turn them into a DIY bunting! Perfect for a party or for little girls’ room decor.
Sweater to Upholstered Stool
Upholstery is a lot easier than you might think. This stool is a perfect beginner project. Upcycle an unwanted sweater into a cozy sweater stool!
Quilt from Flannel Shirts
Flannel is perfect for a cozy blanket. Learn how to use some old flannel shirts to create this comfy quilt, from start to finish.
Camera Strap from a Scarf
Do you have an old scarf you haven't used in a long time? Turn it into a pretty camera strap! This makes a fun gift for a photographer.
Zip Bags from Old Ties
Learn how to make these DIY necktie zip pouches from old ties. They make great handmade gifts for men, husbands, or anyone else that might like a masculine silk print.
Socks to Sock Monkeys
Make your own sock monkey by using this ultimate sewing pattern and tutorial. Easy to sew with guide from pictures and instructions.
Wreath from Flannel Shirt & Old Jeans
Upcycle your fall wardrobe into this beautiful DIY wreath! Anyone can make this craft and the best part is that you can use old jeans and a flannel shirt that you don’t use anymore. It's the perfect wreath for fall.
Pocket Tee from a Men's Tee
Does your boyfriend or husband have a leftover t-shirt? Refashion it into a DIY pocket tee with a doily, and it’s so easy to do!
T-Shirts to Knotted Baby Hats
I don’t know about you, but one can never have too many simple cotton baby hats. This tutorial is easy and you don’t have to buy any fabric! You can use old cotton t-shirts right from your closet.
Tote Bag from a Flannel Shirt
I love how this tote bag turned out! This is a bit more involved than some of the other projects on the list, but definitely worth the effort.
Rag Rug from Old T-Shirts
Learn how to make a braided rainbow rug using t-shirts. It is super easy–and who doesn’t have an extra t-shirt (or multiple) laying around? You'll need quite a few, but the results are worth it.
Faux Cacti from Socks
Learn how to make the most fun faux cactus ever using socks! These are perfect for those castaways without a match. You’ll love your quirky garden!
Picnic Blanket from Jeans
With summer upon us and spending lots of time outdoors, a picnic blanket was much needed. See how this denim blanket was made from old jeans! It would also be great for camping.
Headbands from T-Shirts
Learn how to make a tie dye headband three different ways! This is such a cute fashion statement for summer.
Decorated Planter with an Old Scarf
Looking for a fun and easy project? Re-imagine an old scarf into a new planter in this easy upcycled scarf planter tutorial!
Christmas Stocking from Pajamas Pants
This easy DIY Christmas stocking was made from an old pair of fleece pants. You can sew it up in about 15 minutes! So colorful on the mantel.
Lampshade Out of Lace Tights
Learn how to cover an old lampshade frame with lace tights! I love the antique look and the soft light. This site is in a different language, but you can follow the picture tutorial.
Felt Rug Out of Old Sweaters
Make any shape rug you like with this tutorial. You can use up some old wool sweaters and felt scraps to make it.
Denim Bins from Pants
I save everything, including old pants! Here’s how to make recycled denim bins before you send your drawers to the Salvation Army.
iPad Cover from a Sweater
Keep your iPad protected and cozy with the same thing that keeps you cozy in the winter . . . a sweater! I really like the embellishments she used here.
Messenger Bag from Cargo Pants
Gotta love all those pockets on cargo pants, right? They are perfect for turning into a messenger bag. It even has a hidden tablet holder!
Apron from a Dress
Mindy shows you how to take an old dress and turn it into an apron! Great idea for a dress that doesn't fit anymore.
Slippers from a Sweater
Cold feet? Warm them up by upcycling an old sweater into nice warm slippers! All you need is an old sweater, needle, thread, and scissors.
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