How to fix a pulled thread or snag
A gentle approach to mending pulls in fabric
A snag in your favourite garment can feel like a small disaster, but it doesn’t have to be. Snags happen to even the most carefully worn garments. A loose loop on a linen dress, a small pull across a wool knit, or a raised thread on silk, each one can feel alarming in the moment. But a snag is rarely the end of a piece. In most cases, it is a simple interruption in the weave, easily guided back into place with patience and a steady hand.
What you will need
A blunt sewing or tapestry needle
Matching sewing thread (optional)
Small scissors
An iron or steamer (optional, for finishing)
A flat surface with good lighting
Optional: A thimble for better grip and control, especially when working with delicate fabrics.
Step-by-step: how to fix a snag in fabric
Step 1: Assess the snag
Lay the garment flat on a clean surface. Examine the snag closely to determine whether it has formed a loop, a pull, or a break in the fabric. Do not cut the snag. Cutting may turn a minor imperfection into a larger hole.
Step 2: Gently ease the fabric
Use your fingertips to gently smooth the fabric around the snag. Lightly pull and stretch the area in small motions, working outward from the snag. This redistributes the tension and often draws the snag back toward the surface, reducing its visibility.
Step 3: Tuck the snag to the inside
Thread your blunt needle and guide it gently through the loop or base of the snag. Pull the snag to the inside (wrong side) of the garment, being careful not to tug too tightly. This hides the snag and helps prevent further pulling.
If needed, create a very small stitch using matching thread to anchor the snag on the inside. Avoid tying a bulky knot, especially with fine fabrics.
Step 4: Secure and smooth
Once the snag is secured on the inside, trim any excess thread with sharp scissors, leaving a short tail to prevent unravelling. Avoid cutting too close to the stitch.
Gently run your fingers over the fabric surface to ensure that no tension or puckering remains.
Step 5: Finish with steam or press (optional)
If your garment allows, use a handheld steamer or warm iron to finish the area. Steam helps natural fibres relax and settle, blending the repair into the garment. For knits and wovens alike, this can make the difference between a visible flaw and a nearly invisible mend.
Working with delicate fabrics
Delicate fibres often require slower, more attentive handling. Understanding how each material behaves will help you guide the snag back into place without distorting the weave.
Silk
Silk threads are fine, fluid, and sensitive to tension. Always use the smallest, bluntest needle you have, and support the fabric with your free hand as you work. Instead of tugging, coax the snag gently toward the inside of the garment with soft, incremental movements. Avoid knots where possible, they can sit heavily against the fabric and create tiny impressions on the surface. If the silk appears bruised, allow it to rest and relax under gentle steam.
Linen
Linen has a beautiful structure but individual fibres can shift when pulled. Work slowly, easing the snag across several threads rather than trying to move it all at once. Linen responds especially well to steaming, which encourages the weave to settle naturally. After the repair, a light press from the reverse side often restores its crisp, quiet texture.
Wool or cashmere
These fibres are soft, lofty and resilient. A snag can often be guided back into place with your fingertips alone, especially in knits. After securing the snag on the inside, use a sweater comb only if the surrounding area looks raised or fuzzy. A brief burst of steam can help the fibres bloom back into harmony with the rest of the garment.
If a snag has broken the weave entirely or formed a small hole, consider a simple hand-darning technique. This reinforces the area and restores structure while keeping the garment wearable for seasons to come.
How to prevent snags
Snags are often preventable with a few small habits that protect the surface of your fabrics and minimise friction.
Choose accessories thoughtfully. Jewellery with sharp edges, textured metal or exposed clasps can catch on delicate fibres. Opt for smooth finishes when wearing silks, fine knits or open weaves.
Wash with intention. Place delicate garments in a mesh laundry bag before machine washing to shield them from zippers, buttons and rougher fabrics. For especially fine pieces, hand washing is ideal.
Store garments with support. Fold delicate knits and lightweight fabrics rather than hanging them. This prevents stretching and reduces their exposure to accidental snags in the wardrobe.
Notice your environment. Upholstery, textured walls, woven bags and even wicker chairs can catch a thread unexpectedly. Being mindful of these surfaces helps protect the integrity of your garments.
Snags are a natural result of movement and wear. With gentle habits and thoughtful care, they can become far less frequent and far less worrying.
Why It matters
We believe garments are meant to be worn, lived in, and cared for. A snag is not a failure but a sign of use. Taking the time to repair it is a quiet act of attention, a way of honouring your garment, and the people and materials behind it. When you mend with care, you extend both the life and the story of what you wear.
From our studio to your wardrobe, with love, John and Jana
Our Care & Repair Guarantee is a quiet promise to support the longevity of your wardrobe. We offer a complimentary first minor repair, such as reattaching labels, on all garments within 12 months of purchase. It’s our way of standing by what we make and encouraging a culture of maintenance over replacement.
If you're unsure whether your garment qualifies for a complimentary repair, or you simply need guidance on where to begin, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Learn more on our Care & Repair Guarantee page.
From our studio to your wardrobe, with love, John and Jana