DIY Jean Shorts for the Last Days of Summer

Summer is still hanging on, and you might need a few pairs of shorts for the last few weeks of warm weather. You could easily spend $30-$50 on designer shorts that have been ripped, cut, and distressed to have that perfect worn look. Or you could hit your local Goodwill to create your own for just a few bucks.

This is nearly a foolproof project, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you start cutting. Just follow these simple instructions, and you’ll be well on your way to making a great pair of shorts that will really beat the last of the summer heat.

What You Need:

• Jeans
• Scissors
• Chalk
• Ruler

Instructions:

1. Try on the jeans before you buy them. Don’t get them too small. If anything, buy a size or two up so get that relaxed, worn look.
2. Use a ruler to measure down from the crotch area of the jeans to get to your desired length. Mark the same measurement on both sides. It’s better to cut long instead of short, especially if you want to roll them.
3. Use chalk to draw a line where you’re going to cut. Don’t draw the line straight across. It’s best if it has a little bit of an upward angle.
4. Take your scissors, and cut the jeans on your chalk line. Try to keep a nice even cut. Be careful not to cut the pockets.
5. Now it’s time to accessorize. You can simple roll your new shorts, and you’re ready to go. Or take this opportunity to express yourself ever more. You could sew on patches, buttons, lace, or anything else. You could also distress the shorts with scissors or fray the edges. (Washing the shorts will naturally fray them as well.) You could even bleach them a bit, but that’s a topic for another time. Enjoy your new shorts!

Stacy Tornio is a gardener, nature lover and writer in Milwaukee. Click here to learn more about Stacy, or visit her website destinationnature.net to see more fun DIY projects!