Mar 31, 2007

Book shows inventive ways to reuse old denim

McClatchy-Tribune

Admit it: You probably have a drawer or shelf stuffed with old jeans. Jeans that are too small or big, short or long, out of style or the wrong color. Whatever you do, don't toss them in a fit of spring cleaning.

Instead, pick up a copy of "99 Ways to Cut, Sew & Deck Out Your Denim" ($19.95, Potter Craft), by Faith Blakeney, Justina Blakeney and Ellen Schultz. Patterns in the book range from summer tank tops and assorted skirts to bags and accessories. Even Fido is included with patterns for a fashionable dog jacket and a collar and leash. Each pattern is helpfully rated from one (easiest) to four stars (most complex), and includes an estimated time of completion.

If you, like us, often skip the "introduction" section of books, you should know this one is a must-read. It includes vital information on how to use the patterns and notes that there is a glossary of techniques in the back.

Examples of some our favorite patterns are No. 24, Joanne, a double-waisted skirt (culling the waistband from two pairs of jeans) that flares slightly and falls above the knee; No. 25, Margaret, a yoga bag, could easily work as a sling bag for your everyday stuff; and No. 44, Zachary, is the required iPod case made with that usually useless little coin pocket that's inside the other pocket on the right side of most jeans.

Find the "99 Ways" denim book in stores and online.