First, gather your materials:
1. An old pair of jeans
2. Sandpaper
3. Sharp scissors
4. Needle and thread
Let's start! Get an old pair of jeans. For me, the more worn it looks, the better. It gives the jeans more character in my opinion. I have this old pair of straight cut jeans that I don't wear because (1) I only wear skinnies now and (2) it's on trend anymore.
Next step is to try your jeans on and see if it still fits. Decide on the length of the cut-offs you want. I usually mark my jeans a bit longer at first then cut it more if I wanted it shorter. It's better to cut it longer than make the mistake of cutting it too short then wasting it.
Next, fold your jeans so that it would align the inner seams, the ones in the crotch area. Make sure that you fold it properly. Folding your jeans this way would make your shorts more even rather than cutting it straight across.
Next step, get a sharp pair of scissors then cut where you made the line. My shorts were a bit longer about 3 to 4 inches longer than what I would want. This gives some allowance to what I want the ends to look like later.
Next, it's time to get creative and "decorate" your jeans. I have got three options for you today so scroll down and let's get started.
First, are the cuffed or folded version. This is the reason why I told you to cut your shorts a bit longer than desired.
What you will do is just fold both legs of the shorts twice to hide the edges. Make sure that both legs are even. Then, get your needle and thread and secure the folds with a cross stitch at the both the outer seam and inner seam of the jeans.
The next option I have for you is the scalloped shorts. I love this version because it's a bit girly and flirty.
You will need a piece of paper or a cardboard to cut your pattern. Just cut some shallow "3s." It does not have to be perfect. Just to your best to make it even :)
Next, place your pattern an inch or so above the edges of your shorts. You can use crayon or marker or even soap to mark your shorts. To make sure you will not leave stains on your shorts with the marker, you're best bet is to turn your jeans inside out and make your mark on the wrong side of the fabric. Cut your scalloped design.
Once done, get your needle and thread and start stitching your scallops. This would prevent your jeans from fraying. I suggest you use the same or similar color of thread used on the stitching of the jeans to make it blend, but you can use other colors if you want the scallops to stand out :)
My last option for you is my favorite one. This pair I got way back 2002. They were my favorite pair at that time so they look really, really worn.
Cut your jeans as above but this time, cut them to the exact length you want, no allowances needed. WE want these jeans to have super distressed and frayed look so get your sandpaper and start rubbing it on your jeans. Rub it on the pocket seams. I also suggest you wear the shorts and then sit down. Rub the sandpaper on the creases made by sitting down. This would give your jeans a more natural worn out look.
Once satisfied with it, you can now cut some slits on your shorts. This would give a little more character to your cut-offs. Once done, throw your shorts in the washer and give it a spin or two or three until you achieved the desired distressed look :)
You are now done! All you have to do is wear them to show off those beautiful and toned gams :)
Hope you enjoyed our DIY for today.
Did you have fun doing this project? Which one is your favorite? I would love to know!
