Learn how to make a durable, spill-resistant denim bib from the pant leg of an old pair of jeans. These homemade bibs are perfect for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Pair them with a soft receiving blanket and you have a thoughtful, practical baby shower gift.
Alongside other repurposed denim projects, these denim bibs are one of my favourite ways to give old jeans new life.
Making baby bibs from old jeans and T‑shirts is simple, economical and produces a product that lasts. In my experience these are the only bibs I need in my daycare — they’re tough, comfortable and easy to care for.
They wash up and hold up so well
The bibs pictured here are almost ten years old. Worn daily by many children, they still show no permanent stains and remain very functional. I wash them with a gentle homemade detergent and they only improve with age.
These bibs are more durable and stain-resistant than most store-bought options, and they feel like a favourite old tee and pair of jeans. For the bib back, use a soft, flexible fabric — an old T‑shirt, flannel shirt or flannel pajama leg works well so the finished bib isn’t stiff.
Easy to make!
These bibs are an excellent beginner sewing project. If you can sew a straight line, you can make a denim bib. They’re quick to cut out, sew and finish, and they make a satisfying upcycling project.
Great baby gift
Denim bibs make thoughtful baby shower or new‑parent gifts. For gifts I often choose darker denim and add a decorative fabric strip across the front to dress them up. For daily use at daycare I keep them simple and practical.
Why I love these repurposed denim bibs
- Easy to make
- Gives new life to old jeans
- Stain-resistant
- Durable and long-lasting
- Customizable size for any age
- Simple to clean
- Comfortable to wear
- Reversible, depending on fabric choice
- Makes a fantastic homemade baby gift
Durable and stain-resistant
Denim is a rugged fabric built to last. It resists many stains and stands up well to repeated washing. Spaghetti sauce, ketchup and berry stains have all come out reliably in the wash. For heavy messes I rinse the bib under the tap immediately, then toss it in the laundry — no pre-soaking or scrubbing required.
Materials and tools
- One pair of old jeans (one pant leg per bib)
- Fabric for the reverse side: old T‑shirt, flannel shirt or pajama leg
- Sewing machine
- Sharp fabric scissors
- Velcro or other fastening
- An existing bib to use as a template
Make a simple template
Use a bib you already own as a guide. Trace it onto newspaper, wrapping paper or any disposable paper, adding a 1/4-inch seam allowance, and cut it out. That gives you an instant pattern you can use to cut both layers of the new bib.
Making your bib
- Cut off the lower half of a pant leg (knee down).
- Open that pant leg by cutting along the thick inseam.
- Open the T‑shirt or flannel fabric so it lies flat.
- Layer the T‑shirt over the denim with right sides together.
- Pin the paper pattern in place and cut around it.
- Leave the two layers pinned together after removing the paper pattern.
A seam across the denim adds character and highlights the repurposed nature of the bib. If you prefer a cleaner look for a gift, choose a denim section without a seam or use a decorative strip to disguise it.
- Sew the front and back pieces together, leaving a 1.5-inch opening on one side for turning.
- Turn the bib right-side-out and press it flat with an iron.
- Pin the opening closed and stitch it securely.
- Topstitch around the edge of the bib to lock the layers in place and strengthen the shape.
- Sew small Velcro squares or a preferred fastener to the ends of the bib, and it’s ready to wear.
Dress it up for gifting
To make a more polished gift bib, topstitch a strip of cotton or flannel across the denim front before sewing the pieces together. Fold and press the strip’s edges for a finished look, then stitch it in place. This quick addition elevates the design while keeping the bib highly functional.
Wasn’t that easy? These bibs handle spills well and don’t become soggy thanks to denim’s slight water resistance. They withstand heavy wear and tear and are simple to produce in multiples for family, friends or a daycare setting.
If you enjoy repurposing materials, this project is practical, eco-friendly and rewarding — and the results are truly useful every day.
More repurposing ideas to try
- Repurposed denim aprons
- Creative ways to reuse jars and containers
- Upcycling small household items into useful crafts
- Simple sewing projects for beginners
Preschool activity e-book
If you’re looking for more kid-friendly activities and printables, consider a collection of preschool projects and ideas compiled by a group of bloggers. It’s a handy resource for caregivers and parents.
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