September 2026 Block Lotto: Denim

This year, we are embracing UPCYCLING! We are hoping you'll have lots of fun, and see fabrics of all kinds in a new light.

Have old clothes, linens or towels that are beyond their best years, or that you're tired of using, but don't know what to with them? We'll be exploring how to reuse these items and share them to create new quilts to love! If you don't have any of the types of fabrics suggested, asking family and friends, or your local buy nothing facebook group, is a great way to source fabrics. Each month, we'll also ask you to bring your extras to share for upcoming blocks! Find out what materials we will use next on the main block lotto page.

This month, we're using denim. Not the modern stretchy jeans that wear out so much faster than they should, but the solid cotton kind (or other non stretchy types). Where to find denim? In jeans of course, but don't forget those jean jackets and other jean accessories.

The MQG put out a video this summer from an artist that uses jeans in his creations. He speaks about what motivates and inspires him, discusses the tools he uses, and shares some of his work and that of other artists. Find the link to the video in the resource section at the end of this page.

Due: Our next in-person event, in October.

Techniques and concepts: Upcycling, deconstructing 

New to block lotto? Learn about it here

What you'll need

• Denim (non stretchy), any colour/wash
• Scissors
• Seam ripper
• Rotary cutter
• All the sewing things
• Curiosity, and a sense of adventure!

Steps

1. Deconstruct your denim with the help of a seam ripper, or cut it in large pieces with scissors or a rotary blade. Deconstructing takes more time, but if you do take this time, you'll find interesting shaped pieces and wear patterns that may spark ideas to make your blocks.
2. There are only two rules... The first, your block needs to have one decorative element, or at least one seam (no just cutting out plain blocks to hand in!). The second, your block should be cut at 9 1/2 inches square (giving a little extra so your block can be trimmed down is always helpful).

Only have one pair of jeans? The backside can be just as fun as the front, so don't hesitate to flip your denim around to the "wrong" side when creating your blocks!

 

Need ideas? 

• Patch some holes, from the front or behind, leave the fraying or cut it off.
• Applique some of the elements you found when deconstructing your jeans.
• Add interest by embroidering or stitching Sashiko style.
• Reuse patches taken from other apparel. 

Additional resources

Working with Denim by ELiu Hernandez (MQG Member Resource Library*) (In a hurry? Don't have the patience to watch a 17 minute video? The presenter speaks quite slowly, so you can easily watch the video at a 1.5 by clicking on the speed icon at the bottom right of the video)



Free Denim Quilt Patterns & Jean Quilt Ideas - Recycle Old Jeans | FreeQuilt.com

* Your OMQG membership includes membership to the MQG. Can't find your account? First contact the OMQG's membership coordinator to confirm your membership and that your MQG account was created. Still can't get in? Use the "forgotten password" links on the MQG site,or, contact the MQG directly.