The growing trend of DIY clothing is both a fun way to revamp old clothes, and a creative solution for saving a few bucks. One of the simplest DIY projects is learning how to turn an old pair of pants into shorts. All you need are some jeans- any kind will do, a pair of scissors- fabric scissors work best, a ruler or measuring tape, a marker or chalk, and a needle and thread (optional).

For this project, I will be turning skinny jeans into a cuffed pair of shorts. First, measure down the inseam about 4 inches. 

Make a mark at 4'' with a marker or chalk. Don't worry, all the marks you make will be hidden when the jeans are cuffed. Next take a straight edge and align it with the outer seam. Mark along the straight edge to create the line you will cut along. Repeat on both sides.

Now cut along the dotted lines.

Now the jeans are ready to be cuffed. You can decide how thick you want the cuff, but I usually find that 1 inch, or the distance from my knuckle to my thumb works best. Part of the fun in DIY is making your own personal decisions!

Fold the jeans up about 1 inch on each side. Fold them up the same width again on each side to create a double cuff. The jeans are now done and ready to wear! 

For more advanced crafters, you can stitch along the cuff or inside the cuff (a "blind stitch") to ensure the jeans don't unfold with wear.

Remember, whenever trying any new project you may want to practice on a scrap piece of clothing first to make sure you get it right.

Keep checking back for more editions of Ways To Wear It. Happy Crafting! 

-Leslie Brown