You won’t be without companymore than 166,000 Instagram posts are tagged#visiblemending.
Learning how to use visible mending requires just a few inexpensive materials andbasic embroidery stitches.
Freestyling will result in a handmade effect.
Credit: Carson Downing
Use these stitches to create unique and interesting designs.
Running Stitch
This stitch is so easy that you may have learned it as a kid.
Extending decorative stitching beyond the patch makes it stand out.
Credit: Illustration by Rachel King Birch
To begin, clean up any messy strings around the hole using scissors.
Next, cut a fabric patch 12-inch larger on all sides than the hole.
Turn the jacket or jeans inside out.
Credit: Illustration by Rachel King Birch
Attach Patch
Attach the patch to the hole using a fabric glue stick.
Reinforce the patch with sewing pins and ensure the right side of the fabric faces out through the hole.
Turn the item right side out.
Credit: Illustration by Rachel King Birch
Add Decorative Stitches
Thread a regular sewing needle with embroidery floss and knot at one end.
Start on the backside of the fabric with a series of horizontal running stitches.
Create a new stitch every 14 inch.
Credit: Carson Downing
Overlap the hole by a few inches on each side.
Repeat the process with a series of vertical running stitches, so the visible threads create small plus signs.
Knot thread when finished.
Credit: Carson Downing
Dab a fabric glue stick onto freezer paper; press over the hole.
(Try not to stitch through paper.)
When there’s 12-inch left unsewn, pull out the paper with tweezers.
Credit: Carson Downing
How to Darn a Sock
Sew Vertical Stitches
Trim the hole to remove excess threads.
This helps maintain the sock’s shape as you mend.
Thread needle with yarn, embroidery floss, or thread.
For wool socks, use wool yarn.
For cotton ones, cotton crochet thread or embroidery floss works.
Weave in ends of yarn and trim.
