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DIY Dog Toy Using Upcycled Denim

September 13, 2021

DIY Project Materials

There are so many repurposing projects out there for thrifted jeans, and so many different denim options at the Thrift Store. You can even create multiple masterpieces from one pair of denim pants, such as this very easy dog toy DIY, for much cheaper than the cost of new dog toys.

Supplies:

– thrifted jeans

– scissors

DIY dog toy made with strips of braided denim jeans from the Thrift Store

Step 1: Thrift a pair of jeans

First step is to source a pair of jeans from your local Salvation Army Thrift Store. These can be in any shape since we’re creating a dog toy that will hopefully be well-loved by your puppy. You could find a pair of jeans that you can repurpose into cut off shorts then use the legs for your DIY toy.

Next wash the jeans then cut the legs off. I would use the full leg since we’ll be braiding the denim and you want to have a lot of length to work with.

Pair of thrifted denim jeans on floor

Step 2: Cut the jeans into four strips

Now you want to cut the jeans vertically to create 4 appropriately equal width strips of fabric.

Thrifted denim jeans cut into four strips

Step 3: Fold the strips

Take 3 strips, fold each strip in half then layer the pieces one on top of each other.

Denim strips cut to create DIY dog toy

Step 4: Tie a knot

Tie a knot at the end of the 3 strips.

Denim jean strips with knot at one end tying them together

Step 5: Tightly braid

Tightly braid the strips of denim.

Denim jean strips tightly braided together

Step 6: One final knot & voilà!

One you’ve finished braiding the denim you can now tie a knot at the end.

Denim jean strips knotted together at end to create finished DIY dog toy
DIY dog toy made with strips of braided denim jeans from the Thrift Store

And that’s it! You can try a more complicated toy that involves sewing or creating a pattern for a stuffie if you’re feeling inspired. Visit your local Salvation Army Thrift Store and discover what dog toy DIY you can create today!

 

Contributed by: Denise of Thrifty by Design and Salvation Army Thrift Store Creative Expert