Ombre, tie dye, neons and jean cut-offs. Synonymous with summer, this season, designer cut-off denim is ruling the catwalks and sidewalks. If you can’t afford a pair of high-end ripped, dyed and studded denim, I’m selling this pair that I made myself. Of course, here are all the steps to Do-It-Yourself.
For this project you will need:
- – One pair of jeans, I used a pair of Levis 569 purchased on sale!
- – s.e.i. tumble dye (a spray-on dye you can find at Michaels)
- – BeDazzler rhinestones or other studs available at Michaels or fabric supply stores
- – a BeDazzler or Rhinestone Nailhead Stapler
- – Scissors, gloves, a garbage bag to keep your work area clean
Step 1. Mark on your pair of jeans where you want to cut them off. Putting them on helps you measure better!
Step 2. Cut one of the legs of your jeans.
Step 3. Fold the jeans in half and cut the other leg as well. Folding them ensures that the length is symmetrical.
Step 4. Fray the jeans by pulling out threads. TIP: make tiny cuts in the denim to release more threads.
Step 5: Step outside and guard your area with a kitchen garbage bag and put on a pair of rubber gloves.
Step 6: Shake the bottle of s.e.i. dye and spray about 10 inches away from the fabric. It comes out in circular clouds so layer them and go over the same area a couple times to saturate the fabric. I started off with the blue dye at the bottom and graduated into the pink at the top. Experiment with different combinations for cool effects and new colours! After you’re done one side, flip over and repeat on the front.
Step 7: Once you’re done spraying the denim with dye, let the shorts dry on a line for a few hours or until dry. Always follow the instructions on the box of the dye for the best results. Once they’re done air-drying, put them in the dryer on a high-heat setting for 15-30 minutes to set the dye.
Step 8: Once your jeans are out of the dryer, it’s time for the fun! Break out the BeDazzler and have fun stapling jewels, studs and rhinestones into your denim. I use an oldschool seamstress’ rhinestone nail stapler, so follow the directions for your stud machine.
TIP: If you don’t have a machine to do the job, you can put in studs by flipping back the prongs from the inside. But be warned! If you don’t use pliers or a screwdriver, your manicure will be ruined!
Have fun experimenting with different stone patterns and combinations. I went for complimentary colours and a symmetrical design for this pair!
I love the way the blue gradiates into the mauve-y pink! I’m so eager to experiment with more ombre combinations.
This project doesn’t take too long to complete and it was so much fun! It’s also a great way to recycle an old pair of pants and save some cash.
These shorts are available for sale on my Etsy shop!
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