planet green files
READ MORE ABOUT:
Patching clothing, like darning socks, is almost a lost art. Although it used to be an essential skill now it is just easier for most of us to run to the store and buy a new pair of jeans or an iron on patch than to learn to patch properly. The thing is, a sewn in patch will be less obvious and wear much longer than any iron on patch you can find.
Almost any fabric can be patched. I like to keep a pair of really worn out jeans around for cutting denim patches from but you can use any similar fabric to the item you are patching. It really is easy and anyone can do it with a little practice.
Just a quick note. The grain of the fabric refers to the direction of the threads. You want the direction of the thread in the patch and the cloth to match. Also, although usually you will sew things inside out, in this case the garment will have the right side facing you.
Simple Mending
How to Patch a Pair of Jeans
1. Cut around the hole to create a rectangle.
2. Match the grain of the patch fabric to the grain of the garment.
3. Cut a patch to match the rectangle, only about one inch larger all around.
4. Carefully matching the grains of the patch and the garment lay the patch under the hole. Pin carefully.
5. Cut the corners of the hole diagonally, ¼ of an inch.
6. Fold the edges of the hole under and slip stitch them to the patch securely.
How to Patch Elbows of a Sweater
It seems that the elbows of sweaters wear out fast around here. Kids are hard on clothes and sweaters are on the delicate side. You can put a patch on the elbow of a sweater before there is damage to give it extra strength. Traditionally suede was used but you can use polar fleece with great results and you don't have to hem the polar fleece; it won't ravel.
1. Cut an oval to fit over the elbow of the sweater.
2. Use a buttonhole stitch to sew around the patch.
Seriously that is it. You can even use embroidery thread for an interesting design element. Learning to mend isn't very hard. There is something satisfying about taking a torn garment and fixing it up so that it can be used again.
If you need some quick stitching instructions Threadbanger is the place to go.
More DIY Ideas
How to Patch Holes in Umbrellas
Repair Your Own Necklaces
How to Repair a Drawstring
-
- {}
