When I think of summer clothes, I think the main have-to-have is a good pair of cut-off shorts. Comfortable and go with literally everything. The perfect pair of cut-offs scream summertime fun. But finding them can be difficult as well as put you back a pretty penny.
Have no fear. There is an easier and less expensive way to get your summer go-to’s.
I am sure that you have a stack of jeans that you just wont let go of. Dust them off and grab your favorite ones that you no longer wear, and turn them into a great pair of blue jeans shorts.
Making Your Cut-Offs
Measure 3 inches from inseam and cut jeans straight across. Cut the front separate from the back of each leg to ensure that you don’t cut too high either side.
Use discarded pant leg as guide to cut 2nd leg. Match jeans at bottom cuff and then cut along line as shown in image.
Keep in mind that fray of cut-offs will raise length slightly. Try on shorts to see if you are happy with length, or need to make adjustments.
Making the Fray
Snip 1/8 – 1/4 inch high (This is depth of fray) the bottom hemline about every 1/4 inch. This will help to make easier when pulling out the threads to make fray.
Use a fork to scrap bottom of shorts to pull out some threading. You can also use a seam ripper. Scrapping back and forth to rough up threads will also help.
Work around whole cuff of pant leg and repeat on 2nd leg.
Pop into the washer & dryer to complete the finished look. Like a fine wine, your cut offs will look better with time. The more washings, the better the look.
Pair with your favorite comfy T and you have a great summer look! ~Susie Peas
Read about more ways to find affordable clothes at Shop the Look and My Favorite Thrift Store Finds. And see some great outfits for real women in my post on Dressing Room Diaries.
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Great DIY way to save $!
I love DIY’s too! And everyone needs the perfect pair of jean shorts!!
I sent this to my daughter .. she is always looking for some decent way to make cut offs..
Great! I hope this helps.
I had no idea how to make the perfect cutoffs! I’ve always just cut them and waited for the fray to appear. This looks so much better! Thank you
The fork/seam ripper helps pull those tiny threads out. And, they get better after every wash!
Love your T-shirt AND the cut-offs. This is an actual blog post that I will USE! THANKS!!! : )
Thanks! I wear my “new” shorts every time they come out of the dryer. You can’t go wrong with the perfect pair of cutoffs!