Despite being torn, faded, and otherwise destructed, distressed jeans can be a popular fashion choice. As pre-distressed jeans can be quite expensive, some individuals have turned to distressing these products on their own. To successfully distress jeans, individuals should start with inexpensive jeans that have been washed and dried a few times. Using the right distressing tools and evaluating the progression of the distressing process are important steps that can dramatically improve the look of distressed jeans. Trial and error is often required to determine which techniques and tools provide the best results.
When distressing jeans, start with a product that is relatively inexpensive. This is especially important for those who have never distressed jeans before, as adopting the right technique can take a bit of time and practice. If an irreparable mistake is made on a pair of inexpensive jeans, they can be discarded with no great distress. In contrast, accidentally ruining a pair of very expensive jeans during the distressing process can be very upsetting.
Jeans should be washed a few times before they are distressed. Brand new jeans will shrink and fade quite dramatically during their first few washes. Failing to wash a new pair of jeans before beginning the distressing process can result in jeans which are even lighter in color and more worn-in than first anticipated.
In order to have good results when it comes to distressing jeans, it is important to choose the right tools for the job. Some of the most effective include cheese graters, pumice stones, and sandpaper. These products can usually be purchased for a low price at home improvement or grocery stores.
Bleach, soft rags, and cotton swabs are also necessary products when it comes to distressing jeans. When applied properly, bleach can make a new pair of jeans appear quite worn in. Place a small piece of wood under the part of the jean that is being distressed in order to protect the opposite side of the leg. Soft rags dipped in bleach can be used to lighten large areas of denim, while cotton swabs can be used for smaller areas.
When distressing jeans, individuals should work on only a small area at a time, and review the look of the jean before moving on to a new section. In most cases, less is more when it comes to distressing jeans. Evaluate what has already been done, and determine if a particular spot needs additional distressing before moving on to another location.