Looky here! The new issue of Stitch Magazine is out! Seems a little early for the Fall 2012 issue, today being the first full day of summer break for my kids, although I admit to thinking about fall already…when does school start again?

I contributed a project to their Upcycling feature, a Denim Messenger Bag, made from an old pair of jeans. People often ask me for ideas for upcycling denim…everyone’s got an excess!

I designed the messenger bag to be easy to make, have a stylish shape and to take advantage of the jean’s existing details. The main part of the bag is the top of the jeans. The flap and strap are made from the legs. The flap can be appliqued or left plain. I used part of my hexagon print and frayed the edges of the applique. I think it goes well with the worn look of the denim.

 The interior, flap and strap are all lined with my Stitch Organic quilting cotton. You could also make the strap out of a belt or necktie, for extra upcycling bonus points.

The best part is having all of those wonderful pockets…and not having to sew any of them!
Check out the issue on newsstands now. As always there are a ton (ok, 32!) of creative, inspiring projects inside, including 6 other upcycling projects, dresses, embroidered projects and even ideas for Back to School!