Ripped jeans aren’t always a fashionable choice for some wearers. When your clothing needs a quick fix, there are a few methods that get the job done. With a little bit of care, you can breathe new life into an old pair of jeans.
1. Patch It
When you plan to do regular patching, the best sewing machines in the world are a recommended purchase. Ripped jeans can be patched from the inside by creating almost undetectable stitches. This is an effective method for small holes, and can be used on large holes if you’re skilled enough. Patching starts by cutting out the fraying threads around the hole to make an identical scrap denim patch look seamless in the fix.
2. Hand Stitching
Hand stitching is good for clean rips, not holes. Since minimal tools are needed, this is a great method to stop a simple rip before it becomes a hole. Since no fabric was lost, fabric mending tape, thread and a needle are the only requirements to apply this fix – a little bit of patience is also helpful.
3. The Japanese Sashiko Method
With the Japanese Sashiko method, you will use a decorative stitch that look really good when done correctly. This traditional technique requires choosing the right replacer fabric to cover the hole. Unlike the other methods, the fabric doesn’t have to match the jeans. Japanese Sashiko is perfect for when you want to create something instead of just repairing.
4. Hand Embroidery
Similar to Japanese Sashiko, hand embroidery allows creativity while fixing a hole. The difference in techniques comes down to personal preference and materials needed. Hand embroidery is also traditional, but more compatible depending on the type of jeans that need to be repaired. When you’re lacking a machine or extra sewing materials, hand embroidery should be an top choice.
5. Darning Stitching
If you want to use a patchless technique, then darning stitching is the way. This only works for small holes, and only if they don’t run along the seam. You only need a needle and a thread with a full understanding of weaving. Darning can be done by hand or with the help of a sewing machine. Owners of sewing machines will have better fixes available on the list, so think of darning as the last resort when no other option is available.
6. Try an Iron-On Patch
This is a temporary but effective method to fix a hole in your jeans. Use this method if you don’t have the skills to operate a sewing machine. An iron-on patch is exactly what it sounds like, and uses an adhesive that responds to heat. The good news is that you can always reinforce this later by sewing the finished product in place for a more permanent solution.
Can It Be Fixed?
You won’t know how good a method works until you try it. Ripped jeans are probably the best first-time project for a person that has a new sewing machine. It is a worthwhile learning curve that gets your jeans back to their original status.
