DIY: Distressed Cut Offs

One of my favorite easy clothing make-overs is making jeans into cut off shorts.  If you don't already have a pair of jeans on hand, I suggest going to the thrift store and looking for a pair of jeans that are just slightly big.  For shorts, a little bit looser fit is more flattering.  You can simply cut them to the length you want, then put them in the wash and see the magical frayed edges appear!  Or you can take it a step further and really distress them.

Here's how:

I like to cut my jeans off at a straight line across (vs. angled upward so the outsides are shorter.  that's just not saddlebags-friendly!).  Next, use a razor blade to slice some lines along the pockets, and on the front of the legs (don't slice through to the other side of your shorts!  I used the scraps from the legs I cut off and slid the folded up fabric under where I was cutting...or if you're not lazy, you could just find some cardboard to use).  Make slits close together, but changing up the length of each slit (short, then long, then long then short, etc.).  Add some little cuts along the edge of the zipper panel and the belt loops too; places that naturally fray with wear.  Then go in with some sandpaper to soften your cuts and get the fraying started.  Next:  Throw in the washer and dryer and reveal your finished shorts!

THE FINAL RESULT:

I love how the white pockets show through under the black denim.  These shorts are a bit snug for me, so they will be going into the shop!  

Have fun roughing up your old jeans and making them into brand new shorts!

xo

Jayme

DIY Valentine: Initial Tee

Yes, I know the whole bleached writing tee is not an innovative DIY.... it did a little stint all over blogs/ pinterest / etc. a few months back. But I thought I would put my own spin on it-- making a tee to wear in honor of your lover for Valentine's Day.  At first I thought I'd write my husband's name (Andrew) or even "I LOVE ANDREW" but decided on something a little more subtle-- his initials.  I sketched a couple options for how I wanted the text to look and once I decided on one, I applied bleach with a paint brush-- then did a little spray effect (I intentionally splashed bleach) around the text and on the collar of the shirt.  I love how it turned out!

Here are the 5 easy steps...

1.  Sketch your ideas.  Then put a piece of cardboard in your shirt (not only to keep the bleach from getting on the back, but it also makes it an easier surface to write on).  Clip the sides to hold it in place.  Get your bleach in a little bowl for easy access.

2.  Draw your design with chalk (it helps to dip the chalk in water first so it will show up more!).

3.  Dip your paint brush in bleach and go over your chalk lines. (Add some extra splashes/spatters if you like!).

4.  Let it set a minute till you see the bleach start to take effect (my shirt was pretty soft/thin, so it started changing color right away).

5.  Once the design is lightened to your liking, rinse with cold water.  Then put in the wash/dryer as usual.

When I put on my tee, Andrew was like "Hey! That's my name!"...I think he thought it was pretty cute. : )  Then I asked him to pose for these awkward photos with me.  He obliged, because he is awesome.

So there you have it!  I think this is a really sweet way to commemorate your Valentine.  A great alternative if you're too much of a wimp to get a tattoo! ; )

xo

Jayme