Refashioned Denim Wrap Skirt

Refashioned Denim turned Sustainably Stylish Skirt

Turn refashioned denim into your next style statement and give your wardrobe a custom twist in the process!  This DIY sewing project transforms two pairs of well-loved jeans into a stylish wrap-around skirt that blends timeless charm with on-trend flair. The best part? You can make it truly one-of-a-kind by adding a personal touch like custom embroidery using your Embroidery machine. It’s a creative, sustainable way to breathe new life into denim that’s too good to toss!

Supplies:

Sewing and Embroidery machine
Serger (optional)
(2) pair of old denim jeans
Coordinating fabric for the waist lining
Basic wrap skirt pattern
Fabric scissors
Straight pins
Iron
Marking pencil
Measuring tape
(4) buttons or twill cording

Make it!

Start this Refashioned Denim Wrap Skirt project by deconstructing your denim jeans. Begin by cutting the inseam of the legs to open them up at the crotch line.

Then, cut straight up the center of the front of the jeans, on one side of the zipper, and do the same up the center back.

Use a basic wrap skirt pattern. This one uses four panels sewn together at the side seams and a slightly curved waistband. The skirt wraps at the waist and is secured in the front with either a tie or buttons. You’ll need to cut four flared panels, a curved waistband, and a waistband lining. You can sketch out a simple pattern or find an easy printable version to use.

Pro Tip: Look for a wrap skirt pattern labeled “easy” or “beginner-friendly”—this keeps the process fun and frustration-free!

Open your deconstructed jeans and use only the leg portions. Lay your pattern so the waistline sits just below the original hem of the jeans. The pattern should fit nicely across the width of the open leg.

Pro Tip: Laying the waistband just under the original hem lets you keep that cool, factory-finished edge for extra flair.

Since you’re using only the legs, go ahead and cut off the top part of the jeans. Be sure to save those denim scraps because they are perfect for future upcycle projects like a wine sleeve or a small purse.

Pro Tip: Keep a “scrap stash” bin on hand. Denim scraps are gold for patchwork, pouches, and accent pieces on other upcycled items.

Repeat the process with the second leg and with your second pair of jeans. You’ll need four pieces in total to complete the skirt, which is why two pairs are ideal.

If your denim is different shades or washes, no worries! It adds texture and visual interest to your final design.

Pro Tip: Mixing washes creates a patchwork effect that’s both artsy and on-trend—think of it as intentional design, not mismatch!

Once your four panels and waistband are cut, begin construction by matching the notched edges of two pieces. With right sides together, pin and sew or serge along the side seams.

Continue sewing until all four panels are connected. You’ll now have one continuous piece forming the body of your skirt.

Next, fold in the raw edges of the skirt’s wrap ends about ½ inch, press them flat, pin, and topstitch for a clean finish.

With the right side of the skirt facing up, lay the waistband liner fabric along the top edge, pin it in place. On the ends, fold the edge of the liner over onto itself, press and pin for a neat finish.

Sew the waistband liner onto the top of the skirt.

If you prefer ties instead of buttons, add six pieces of twill cording between the skirt and the liner, with the cords facing downward on the right side. Make sure to place two ties at the ends of the waistband for secure wrapping.

Pro Tip: Use colorful twill ties or ribbon for a playful pop of color or go for leather strips for an edgy, urban twist.

If using buttons, continue sewing the waistband liner securely to the top edge of the skirt.

At the ironing board, flip the waistband liner to the inside of the skirt, pressing as you go. Pin in place.

Topstitch along the waistband to secure everything neatly.

Determine the placement of your buttons. Be sure to add one to the inside panel of the skirt and one or more to the outside front. The inside button should face inward for a seamless look.

Using your sewing machine, create buttonholes.

Then, sew on your buttons.

Finally, decide the finished length of your skirt. Fold up the hem, press and pin, then topstitch to secure.

For a fun finishing touch, consider adding colorful embroidery to one or more panels using your Embroidery machine.

And there you have it…you’ve just transformed two pairs of forgotten jeans into a refashioned denim wrap skirt that’s equal parts fabulous and functional. Whether you go bold with embroidery or keep it clean and classic, this piece is a celebration of creativity, sustainability, and self-expression.

Wear it proudly with a flirty halter top, a crisp tee, or a tucked-in blouse. And here’s the real magic: every time you tie that skirt around your waist, you’re wrapping yourself in a story of reinvention.

Pro Tip: Add a little label inside your skirt with the date or a fun name for your creation because you’re not just making clothes, you’re making memories.

Wondering what to do with all those old neckties? Try making this stylish shoulder bag!