How to Add a Fabric Cuff to Jeans (Even If You’re Not a Confident Sewer)
You know that pair of jeans hiding in the back of your closet? The ones that are a little too plain to love, but too comfy to let go? Let’s fix that.
Today I’m showing you how to give your jeans a fresh, custom twist with a DIY fabric cuff—a quick, beginner-friendly sewing project that adds personality and charm to any pair of denim. No tailoring skills needed. Just fabric you love, a few simple tools, and the joy of making something yours.
And if you’re anything like me, you want your sewing time to feel peaceful and organized—not chaotic. That’s why I always keep my Sewing Station Caddy nearby. It keeps my scissors, pins, and thread exactly where I need them (especially when I'm hopping between the sewing machine and the ironing board).
Explore Our Handmade Sewing Caddies
Why Add a Fabric Cuff to Your Jeans?
This project is more than a makeover. It’s a way to:
- Refresh old jeans instead of tossing them
- Showcase your personal style with fabric you already love
- Make a simple, satisfying project that doesn’t require a full wardrobe overhaul
- Practice mindful making—because creating with your hands feels good
This is the kind of DIY I come back to again and again: fast, functional, and full of possibility.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to complete this denim glow-up:
- Rotary cutter + cutting mat with a straight edge
- A pair of jeans (tapered legs work too!)
- Sewing machine
- Denim thread
- Two pieces of scrap cotton fabric (at least 3.5" x 12")
- Iron
📦 Optional but recommended: A Sewing Station Caddy to keep your tools organized and in reach throughout the process.
Step-by-Step: Add a Cuff Accent to Your Jeans
1. Choose Your Jeans
Find a pair that could use some new life. Slightly worn or super plain? Perfect. This technique works especially well on straight or tapered leg jeans.
2. Select Your Accent Fabric
Dig into your scrap stash or pick a fat quarter that matches your style. Florals, plaids, linen solids—they all add personality.
3. Measure + Cut Your Fabric
Using your rotary cutter and mat, cut two strips of fabric roughly 3.5" x 12" (or the width of your jeans’ cuff plus a bit extra for seam allowance).
📏 Want a bigger cuff? Cut it taller.
4. Prep the Edges
Fold in the long sides of each fabric strip about ½ inch and press flat with an iron. You’ll now have a nice, clean edge for attaching.
5. Pin to the Inside of the Cuffs
Turn your jeans inside out. With wrong sides together, pin the fabric to the inner cuff—starting from the bottom edge and working your way up. Make sure the ends are tucked neatly under the side seams.
6. Adjust for Taper (If Needed)
If your jeans taper, you may need to slightly pleat or angle the fabric to fit the shape of the cuff. Trim any excess once pinned.
7. Sew in Place
Using denim thread, sew along the bottom and top edges of the fabric accent, then secure along the outer side seams. Tuck any raw fabric edges under the side seam overlap and reinforce your stitch ends.
Optional: Add Side Slits for Comfort
If the cuff feels snug when putting the jeans on, use a seam ripper to open about 2.5” up the outer side seams. This gives you flexibility without compromising the style.
8. Final Touches
Give the jeans a gentle wash to soften the new seams and remove any chalk or markings. Then roll up those cuffs, admire your handiwork, and strut your stuff.
Anyone can hem or patch. But this project does more—it helps you express your style with what you already have. And when you do it with intention, tools you love, and a little creativity? You’re not just sewing—you’re creating joy.
My Sewing Station Caddy makes this whole process smoother and more enjoyable. With everything in reach (especially when I’m bouncing between the iron and sewing machine), I spend less time searching for tools and more time making.
Want More Projects Like This?
If you’re a maker at heart and love refreshing what you already own, come hang out with us. Join the Studio Insiders list and get free project ideas, pottery sneak peeks, and maker-friendly inspiration straight to your inbox.