In these increasingly harder economic times, knowing some basic sewing techniques can help fix common rips and tears that will help extend your wardrobe. So over the next couple of weeks I will be highlighting some simple ways to fix up and mend your clothes. These fixes are worth more than the pennies spent on materials and are not only good for your wallet but good for the environment to boot. To fix the aforementioned tear in the seam of a shirt you’ll need a needle of appropriate weight. One that is sturdy enough to go through the fabric easily, but thin enough that you won’t struggle. You will also need thread in a coordinating color. Turn the shirt inside out and press so the hole will line up. For smaller holes I usually don’t pin the work area, but it does help to stabilize keep the two sides from separating. Working from right to left, start approximately 1/4″ in front of the hole. Insert the needle to start, then make small diagonal stitches over the edge, as pictured. This is called a whip stitch. Make sure your stitches are evenly spaced and small in length, ending approximately 1/4″ beyond the tear. Tie off and cut the remaining thread. Turn the shirt right side out and admire your new/old shirt!
