Southern Wisconsin Times

Many people have jeans in their closet that are no longer wearable or do not fit. Rather than discarding them, Blain’s Farm & Fleet offers suggestions for repurposing and recycling old denim.

Denim is known for its durability and versatility, making it suitable for various DIY projects. "With just some basic sewing skills, you can transform your jeans into a sturdy tote bag," suggests the guide. Other ideas include creating patchwork quilts from multiple pairs of jeans, crafting denim coasters, or even making aprons suitable for cooking or gardening tasks.

For those with usable but unwanted jeans, donating is an option. Several organizations welcome such contributions: "Local Thrift Stores," "Shelters and Community Centers," and "Clothing Drives" are among the places where donations can be made.

Jeans beyond repair still have value through recycling programs that accept denim to repurpose materials. Additionally, if made from 100% cotton without synthetic fibers, they can be composted by shredding them into smaller pieces.

Leftover scraps from other projects should not go to waste either. They can serve as patches for clothing repairs or become craft materials for children’s activities. Even small pieces of denim make durable toys for pets or add rustic charm when used as plant pot covers.

Blain’s Farm & Fleet encourages giving old jeans a second life through these various methods of reuse and recycling. For those needing replacements after upcycling their old pairs, the store offers a wide selection of new denim options across different categories.