35 Fashion DIY Projects for Beginners
wild guides

Wild Guide: 35 Fashion DIY Projects for Beginners

If you’re just starting to dabble in DIY, I’ve got your back. After all, I’m all about showing others how easy it can be to customize anything and everything. And while it might be easier to just head to the store and shell out some cash, there’s something special about getting crafty. It proves that we aren’t limited to what is in front of us. It’s a unique form of personalization that I’ll always adore.

During my time as a TA at Workshop SF, I noticed a recurring theme with first-time crafters. Everyone was always, always, always nervous about creating something that isn’t perfect. Either that or they were terrified of messing up. Here’s how I look at it. What’s the worse that can happen if you do mess up? You’ll have to either start over or fix the problem. But this is exactly how you’ll learn. Trust me, I’ve made a bajillion mistakes in my time – and I still do.

So, whether you’re looking for a new hobby or want some inspiration, this list is for you. I handpicked these 35 easy DIY projects from my crazy 7-year archive. Some were posted on this blog, while others were shared around the web. One thing’s for sure, though: you can totally make them.

1.Patch Party Jacket

DIY: Patch Party Denim Jacket

Just collect, iron, and wear. It’s like a scrapbook for your body. (Wild Amor)

2. Gemstone Graphic Top

DIY Gemstone Graphic Top

Spruce up any graphic tee with rhinestone buttons. (Wild Amor)

3. Embellished Backpack

DIY: Embellished Backpack

If you can cut and glue ribbons and trimmings, you can totally make this. (Wild Amor)

4. Plaid Patchwork Jeans

DIY: Plaid Patchwork Jeans

This no-sew, no-fuss plaid patchwork jean project is the epitome of easy. (Wild Amor)

5. Color Blocked Metal Necklace

DIY Color Blocked Metal Necklace

Got some old nail polish laying around? Use it to spruce up a plain metal choker. (We Heart This)

6. Fingerless Pearl Studded Gloves

MORE: DIY Pearl-Studded Fingerless Gloves

All you need is glue and flat back pearls to make these fancy gloves. (MORE)

7. Dip-Dyed Flannel Shirt

DIY: Dip-Dyed Flannel Shirt

There’s no right or wrong way to dip dye, making this project the perfect beginner DIY. (Wild Amor)

8. Watercolor Blazer

How to Make a Watercolor Blazer

Again… there’s no right or wrong way here. Just have fun with it. (Wild Amor)

9. Embellished Barrette Bag

DIY Embellished Barrette Bag

Turn kids’ plastic barrettes into embellishments with spray paint and glue. (Wild Amor)

10. Sequin Ankle Strap Heels

DIY Sequin Ankle Strap Heels

Hot glue is all you need to turn sequin trim into glamorous ankle straps. (MORE)

11. Fleece Faux Fur Panel Scarf

Fleece Faux Fur Panel Scarf

Sewing is totally optional for this one; you can get away with using fabric glue. (Wild Amor)

12. Pearl Bar Earrings

DIY Pearl Bar Earrings

With the right supplies, climber earrings are ridiculously easy to make. (Wild Amor)

13. Watercolor Hi-Tops

DIY: Watercolor Hi Tops

The messier, the better. One of my favorite Converse DIY projects. (Wild Amor)

14. Pearl Beanie

DIY: Pearl Beanie

Like the gloves, all you need to do is glue and let dry. (Wild Amor)

15. Lace-Up Plaid Shirt

DIY: Plaid Lace-Up Shirt

Another no-sew project! This is a rad way to transform a flannel shirt. (Wild Amor)

16. Polka Dot Plaid Shirt

DIY: Polka Dot Plaid Shirt

Who knew a pencil eraser would make a great stamp? (Brit + Co)

17. Alphabet Shoes

DIY Alphabet Shoes

This Jeffrey Campbell-inspired DIY uses plastic charms, spray paint, and glue. (Wild Amor)

18. Artsy Canvas Pouch

eHow: Artsy Canvas Pouch

Here’s another project that embraces creative messiness. (eHow)

19. Feather Trim Floppy Hat

eHow DIY Feather Trimmed Floppy Hat

Just glue feathers on to strand of ribbon and wrap it around a hat. Easy. (eHow)

20. Studded Wood Earrings

DIY: Studded Wood Earrings

You don’t need to be a woodworker to make these earrings. (Wild Amor)

21. Color Blocked Thread-Wrapped Belt

DIY Color Blocked Thread-Wrapped Belt

Instantly transform a belt by wrapping it with embroidery thread. (Wild Amor)

22. Polka Dot Sunglasses

WA_FestivalNEEDTOADD_PolkaDotSunglasses

A toothpick and nail polish is all you need for this DIY. (eHow)

23. Faux Stud Pocket Tee

DIY Faux Studded Pocket Tee

Iron-on studs are my favorite. (Wild Amor)

24. Chain-Wrapped Wool Hat

DIY Chain Wrapped Wool Hat

Practice your basic jewelry skills with this floppy hat wrap. (Wild Amor)

25. Graffiti Converse

Graffiti Converse Hi Tops

It’s not possible to mess this one up. (Wild Amor)

26. Reusable Shoe Clips

eHow Reusable Shoe Clips

Simply glue pendants to blank shoe clips and you’re done. (eHow)

27. Painted Twig Necklace

Painted Twig Necklace

The best way to hold on to those hiking memories. (Brit + Co)

28. Candy Button Purse

DIY Candy Button Purse

All you need to do is spray paint flat back dome studs and you’re good to go. (Brit + Co)

29. Fringe Fleece Scarf

DIY Fringe Fleece Scarf

I adore fleece because it’s warm, inexpensive, and doesn’t fray. No sewing is needed for this scarf DIY. (eHow)

30. Embellished Faux Fur Jacket

DIY Embellished Faux Fur Jacket

Much like the backpack project on this list, this DIY calls for just cutting and gluing. (Wild Amor)

31.  No-Sew Plaid Patchwork Sweatshirt

No-Sew Plaid Patchwork Sweatshirt

Thank goodness for fabric glue. This one is a no-sew DIY, too. (We Heart This)

32. Infinity Necklace

DIY Infinity Necklace

Need to brush up on your jewelry making skills? Make this easy infinity necklace. (Wild Amor)

33. Beaded Bracelet

DIY Beaded Bracelet

If you’re just starting out, this beaded bracelet DIY will give you awesome practice. (eHow)

34. Bandanna Metal Necklace

DIY: Bandanna Necklace

Stitch a necklace to a bandanna for an instant Free People-inspired piece. (Wild Amor)

35. Stenciled Leather Jacket

DIY: Stenciled Leather Jacket

Give a leather jacket a makeover with stencils and paint. (Wild Amor)

35 Fashion DIY Projects for Beginners

Phew. How’s that for a list?

Remember, take your time reading the directions and don’t be afraid to experiment. Most importantly, don’t focus on trying to make an exact replica of what you see in the tutorial… it’s just not possible. Besides, the point of DIY is to make it your own. It’s going to be different, but that’s exactly what will make it awesome.

Happy crafting!

xx K