How to Make Denim Feathers from Old Blue Jeans
Welcome to our DIY tutorial on how to turn old blue jeans into beautiful denim feathers! In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of upcycling denim scraps into unique and versatile feather accents that can be used for a variety of creative projects. Whether you're looking to add a unique touch to your fashion accessories or spruce up your home decor, these denim feathers offer endless possibilities. Get ready to unleash your creativity and let's start crafting!
This is a coordinating blog post that outlines the transcript in our video How to Make Denim Feathers from Old Vintage Blue Jeans Clothing. This video will show you how to quickly create frayed edge denim feathers that you can use to embellish bags, clothing, and many other ways. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the video. To download the free feather templates, go to the Download Free Denim Feathers Pattern file below.
Video Description Details
In This Video You Will Learn
How to prepare the denim by cutting it into usable pieces and creating a feather template (optional). Cut and shape the denim into realistic feather designs, and learn techniques for adding texture and details.
Assemble the feathers into clusters or patterns, securing them together with fabric glue or a hot glue gun.
Attach the denim feathers to different surfaces, from fabric to wood, for various creative applications.
Materials Needed:
Old blue jeans (Not stretch denim)
Scissors
Fabric glue or hot glue gun
Paints and brushes (optional)
Cardboard or cutting mat
Feather Patterns - download below
Fabric Cut Measurements (inches)
Feathers can be made any size you like. Each feather uses two pieces of denim, so cut rectangles a little larger than you would like your feathers to be.
Pattern and Design Downloads
This download contains a variety of feather templates to get you started in shaping your denim feathers. Use these as a starting point to learn how to shape your own feathers any way you like.
Video Chapters
Introduction: 0:15
Materials Needed: 0:39
Making the Feathers: 3:38
Cutting out the Feathers: 6:25
Putting the Pieces Together: 9:01
Sewing the Feathers: 11:38
Fringing the Feathers: 15:09
Fringing Timelapse: 20:14
Using the Feathers: 22:59
Thanks for Watching: 24:16
Products in this Video I Find Most Useful
1/8” Double Sided Tape - https://amzn.to/3MeU0BB
½” Double Sided Tape - https://amzn.to/3Q8P2Hv
Hump Jumper - https://amzn.to/3SM9vok
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Rotary Cutting Mat - https://amzn.to/3QgLAL6
Rotary Cutter (18 mm) - https://amzn.to/3FHE2fs
Sewing machine - Juki TL2010-Q - https://amzn.to/3t1LGi9
Sites Related to this Video
My Website: http://deborahfillmer.com/
Scott’s Photography: https://scottfillmer.com/
Company Page: https://piecesofthepast.com/
Company Etsy Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/piecesofthepastAL
Company FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/piecesofthepastal
Scrap Quilting FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/308599672989747
Transcript
Welcome to Pieces of the Past, where old denim finds new life in the form of feathers. Today, we embark on a creative journey, exploring the art of making denim feathers. I'm Deborah, your guide through the world of fiber arts and upcycling. Join me as we delve into the endless possibilities of repurposing denim into unique creations.
Materials and Tools
Before we begin crafting, let's gather our materials and tools. For this project, you'll need:
Denim fabric (old jeans work great) (Not stretch denim)
String or ribbon for the spine
Templates (available for download)
Double-sided tape
Cutting mat and rotary cutter (or scissors)
Sewing machine (or hand-sewing needle)
Stiletto or pointed tool for fringing
Now that we have everything we need, let's dive into the creative process.
Making the Feathers
To start, select your denim fabric. I prefer using old jeans for their sturdy texture. The grain of the fabric determines the direction of your feathers. Cutting along the grain produces solid-colored feathers, while cutting on the bias creates variegated patterns.
After printing and cutting out your templates, lay them on the fabric and cut around them using a rotary cutter or scissors. Next, prepare your spine using string or ribbon, securing it with double-sided tape along the centerline of the feather template.
With your spine in place, it's time to stitch it down using a sewing machine. You can sew close to the spine with a zipper foot or opt for a zigzag stitch for a different look.
Fringing the Feathers
Now comes the fun part—fringing the feathers. Using a stiletto or pointed tool, gently tease the threads of the denim to create a fringed effect. Pull the threads in the direction of the fabric's grain for optimal results. Trim any excess threads to refine the shape of the feathers.
Final Touches
Once your feathers are assembled, they're ready to adorn your creations. Whether adding flair to clothing or crafting unique decor pieces, denim feathers offer endless possibilities. Consider experimenting with different colors of denim for added variety.
Conclusion
Crafting denim feathers is not only a creative endeavor but also a sustainable way to repurpose old fabric. By giving new life to discarded denim, we contribute to reducing waste and embracing eco-friendly practices.
I hope this tutorial has inspired you to embark on your own denim feather-making journey. Don't forget to check the description for links to templates and materials. If you enjoyed this video, consider subscribing for more creative content.
Until next time, happy crafting!
