Saw a ton of patchwork denim at a flea market in Asheville last weekend

I was walking through the River Arts District and every other vendor had these amazing, one-of-a-kind patchwork denim jackets. They weren't just random squares, they were pieced together with really intentional color stories (like all earth tones or faded blues and reds). It got me thinking about how to design a whole line around that reclaimed fabric idea, but with a more modern cut. Has anyone tried designing with pre-used denim before? I'm curious about the best way to source it without it feeling grungy.

3 comments

3 Comments

kai8391mo ago

Asheville flea markets are basically ground zero for that aesthetic now. Sourcing pre-used denim without the grungy feel is all about the wash process, and @parker_hall5 is totally right about the vinegar soak. I'd look for bulk lots from online sellers who specialize in deadstock or warehouse cleanouts, that way you skip the weird thrift store smells. The key is finding fabric that's worn in but not totally destroyed, so the patches still have structure. A modern cut with those intentional color blocks could look really sharp, like high-end collage work. Just be ready to sort through a mountain of denim to find pieces with the right fade and weight.

emma_jones1mo ago

Check thrift stores for good denim and wash it really well.

parker_hall51mo ago

Totally agree with washing thrift store finds well. I once got a pair that seemed fine but had a weird smell no amount of airing out would fix. Had to run them through a hot wash with vinegar to finally get it out. Now I always do a soak first, just in case. It’s a bit of extra work but saves you from wearing someone else’s old problems.