How to Make Pants Into Shorts

Got old jeans you’re ready to transform into shorts? Save money and repurpose what’s already in your closet!

No sewing skills? No problem, this project doesn’t require any. Just choose jeans that fit comfortably at the waist and hips, and make sure the length is long enough so your new shorts won’t end up too short after cutting.

pants into shorts materials

Materials

You can do this at home with these simple basic tools:

  1. Fabric Marker Pens
  2. Scissor
  3. Fabric Tape (optional)
  4. Exacto Knife (optional)
  5. Pumice or Sandpaper (optional)
Cutting pants into shorts cutting

Pants Into Shorts Style 1:

  1. Lay your jeans flat.
  2. Then fold them in half and draw dotted lines on the parts you want to cut. Make sure you cut at a slight edge where the inseam area is longer. Or you can use a pair of your old shorts as a guide if this works better for you.
  3. Do the same on the other side following the length of what’s already cut.

As a result, you’ve got some shorts.

pants into shorts

Pants Into Shorts Style 2:

For a cuffed look, place double-sided clothing tape and fold once or twice!

Pants Into Shorts Style 3:

Now if you want a distressed style with holes and fringe,

  1. Continue using a fabric marker pen to outline the bottom cuffs.
  2. Then take a scissor to cut your markings.
  3. Do that with both sides.
  4. Next, you’ll need a pumice, an exact-o knife, and a scissor.
  5. Now take the pumice, also known as a foot scrubber, to roughen up the edges and other desired areas. You can get a pumice at the dollar store.
  6. Then use your exact-o knife to make small cuts. I made sure to pull the white lining of the pocket out so there’s no hole where my money should be.
  7. Use your pumice and scrub until the threads come out.
  8. Sometimes it’s easier to get a slit going by using your scissor, but be careful not to cut too deep. Holes will get bigger eventually after every wash.

Watch my full video tutorial:

And there you have it! Turning your old pants into stylish shorts is easier than you thought. No sewing, no stress, just a little creativity and a pair of scissors. Not only do you save money, but you also give your wardrobe a fresh, fun twist. So grab your favorite jeans, follow these simple steps, and rock your new shorts all summer long. Who knew upcycling could be this satisfying?

Want to give your old t-shirt a second life as a trendy workout muscle tee? Click here to see how!

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