DIY: Ombre Cutoffs with Studs

Denim cutoffs are a must have staple item for Summer.  With all of the variations of prints, textures, and colors, we are constantly day dreaming about denim. Maybe you've got some old denim that could use a makeover or just want to make your cutoffs stand out... If so, we've got a fun and easy DIY project for you to try.

All you need is love and... scissors, bleach, water, studs, pliers, and denim.

Start with finding the right pair of denim. Either recycle your old cutoffs or start from scratch -  I wanted some high-rise mom jeans for a vintage look so I went to Goodwill. They were out of mom jeans so I left with classic black Levi's (only $5!)

Try on the jeans and mark where you want them to be cut. Cut about 1.5"-2" below where you marked - this allows room for error and extra fray. If you're not too savvy with scissors, try using your favorite pair of cutoffs as a guide. 

 

 (my cat wanted to help...)

Mix 1:1 bleach and water (I used 2 cups of each). Place the shorts halfway into mixture and walk away for a few hours - I actually forgot about mine all day! When it fades to the color you desire, remove and rinse with water. To neutralize bleach, wash shorts with 1/2 c baking soda (no detergent!) Dry and proceed.

For an edgy rocker look use real metal studs. Metal studs can be hard to find... Lucky me, I had some leftover from my wannabe punk years. Using pliers, I pried some studs off an old belt and it was actually really easy!

Lay the studs on the jeans wherever you want them to go. Poke the prongs on the back of the stud through the denim. Use the pliers again to flatten and secure... and you are done!!!

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