repair- The forgotten “r”
domestika.org
Repairing clothes is not only a sustainable and budget-friendly practice but also a creative way to personalize your wardrobe. Here are some ideas for repairing clothes:
1. Basic Sewing Skills:
Learn basic sewing techniques like stitching and hemming to repair small holes, loose hems, or missing buttons.
Invest in a quality sewing kit with needles, threads, and various colors to match your clothing.
For basic sewing questions, try YouTube, or even message me via Instagram, or email!
2. Patchwork:
Add a decorative patch to cover holes or stains on jeans, jackets, or other casual wear. You can use colorful fabric or even upcycled denim.
Create your own unique design by cutting out shapes or using embroidered patches.
3. Embroidery:
Embroidery can be used not only to mend but also to embellish your clothes. Cover holes or weak spots with beautiful embroidered patterns.
Try different embroidery stitches, and even add fun accents like buttons or beads!
4. Replacing Zippers:
Don't throw away a piece of clothing just because the zipper is broken. You can replace zippers yourself with a bit of patience and a sewing machine or hand sewing.
Old zippers can be seam ripped away, and upcycled for a new life!
5. Patches and Mending Tape:
Iron-on patches and mending tape are quick fixes for small holes and fraying edges. Silk/fragile garments often fray around pit seams, so this is a great fix!
They come in various colors and patterns, so you can make the repair subtle or decorative.
Make sure to follow all instructions for the patch and fabric. Some fabrics cannot be ironed.
6. Creative Denim Repairs:
Denim is a versatile fabric to work with. Use patches, embroidery, or even paint to give your jeans a new life.
Experiment with fraying, distressing, etc. It’s one of the best beginner-fabrics out there!Save any future jeans that have irreversible damage for future patches and repair!
7. Visible Mending:
Instead of hiding repairs, consider making them a part of the design. Visible mending, often using contrasting threads and creative stitching, can turn a flaw into a statement.
Experiment with fun designs, abstract shapes, whatever fits your personality.
Mending could be done with embroidery floss (thread), buttons, patches, fabrics, etc!
8. Button Makeover:
Replace missing or worn-out buttons with unique, eye-catching ones to revitalize a garment.
Mix and match buttons on a cardigan, blazer, or coat for a playful look.
Collect any and all buttons you come across in a re-used, visible/marked container! I like to use clear glass jars so I remember where they are!
Buttons of all shapes and sizes can be found at thrift stores, estate sales, yard sales, heck ask a relative!
Button-replacing is super quick and easy!
9. Upcycling:
Take pieces from old clothing or fabric scraps to upcycle your clothing. Transform an old T-shirt into a tote bag, or turn a pair of worn-out jeans into stylish shorts.
You can try non-sew DIYs, or use a machine, etc!
Always make sure that the piece you create is made with longevity in mind! There is no use in trying to prevent waste, only to create something that ends up in the landfill!
10. Stain treating:
Learning how to make fabrics like new is a VERY useful skill!
Try various methods depending on the fabric and stain type! Be aware of vintage dyes, and the likely-hood of dye run!
Common ingredients include house-hold items like baking soda, vinegar, bleach, detergent, hydrogen peroxide, and even dish soap! Be sure not to mix these unless checking online first! Chemical reactions can be dangerous.
Other store bought treaters can also be benficial! Retro-clean, oxi-clean, Shout, etc.
Remember, repairing clothes not only reduces waste but also allows you to express your creativity and give your wardrobe a personal touch. Plus, it's a valuable skill that can save you money and reduce your environmental impact.
