How to re-use back pockets from old denim jeans

Before you throw out those old ratty jeans, take a few minutes and cut out the back pockets. Here are two ideas for re-using the pockets.

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I had a few pairs of old jeans ready to be recycled, but I needed more.  I went to the local thrift store and found some there.  I paid between $1.00 - $1.50 each.

I had a few pairs of old jeans ready to be recycled, but I needed more. I went to the local thrift store and found some there. I paid between $1.00 - $1.50 each.

Cut out the back pockets.

Cut out the back pockets.

I trimmed these pockets with pinking shears because I liked that look.  You can also use straight edged scissors

I trimmed these pockets with pinking shears because I liked that look. You can also use straight edged scissors

Saving these for a future craft project, still some good sized denim pieces to be had in the legs!

Saving these for a future craft project, still some good sized denim pieces to be had in the legs!

First way to reuse the pockets:  Utensil Holders.  I had a family barbecue and used these to carry out the barbecue theme.

First way to reuse the pockets: Utensil Holders. I had a family barbecue and used these to carry out the barbecue theme.

Fold up your utensils in a cloth napkin and stick inside the denim pocket.  Easy to grab and go.

Fold up your utensils in a cloth napkin and stick inside the denim pocket. Easy to grab and go.

The second way I re-used the pockets was to make two swag garlands.  I punched holes in the two corners of each pocket and then strung the pockets on some ribbon.  (would also look great with twine)

The second way I re-used the pockets was to make two swag garlands. I punched holes in the two corners of each pocket and then strung the pockets on some ribbon. (would also look great with twine)

I used pinking shears to cut strips of material to tie in between each pocket. These could be very inexpensive projects using jeans you already own.   Happy Crafting!

I used pinking shears to cut strips of material to tie in between each pocket. These could be very inexpensive projects using jeans you already own. Happy Crafting!

  • Old denim jeans
  • Ribbon, yarn, twine
  • Scraps of material (optional)
  • Pinking shears, or straight edged scissors