How to DIY: Patchwork Jeans

FASHION JEANS

Patching was once a last-ditch effort to extend the life of a favorite pair of deteriorating jeans. But function hooked up with fashion earlier this year when patchwork styles appeared on the runways of Ralph Lauren, Chloe, Herve Leger, and Diesel Black Gold. DIY blogger Erica Domesek, author of P.S. I Made This, explains how to create the trendy look with your closet castaways.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

Plain pair of jeans

Sharp fabric or utility scissors

Swatches of denim or other fabric, or iron-on fabric patches (available at most fabric and trimming stores)

Fabric glue (if using swatches) or an iron (if using iron-on patches)

Needle and thread

HOW TO DO IT:

Step 1: Cut different shapes from the swatches or iron-on patches.

Step 2: Map out a design on the jeans. Consider repairing existing tears or threadbare areas. Experiment with overlapping patches and mixing textiles for contrast and interest.

Step 3: Use fabric glue to attach the swatches, or an iron to activate the adhesive on the iron-on patches.

Step 4: Let the glue dry completely. Hand stitch the corners of the swatches or patches for reinforcement.

Step 5: Wait 72 hours before hand washing and line drying the jeans.