How to mend a ripped seam

A ripped seam is one of the most common clothing repairs, and thankfully, one of the most straightforward to fix. Whether the seam has given way from daily wear, movement, or an accidental tug, a careful hand-sewn mend can restore your garment's strength and shape without needing a sewing machine.

This method is suitable for both delicate and robust fabrics, and with a little attention to detail, your repair can become almost invisible. No special equipment is needed, just a few simple tools, a little time, and the intention to make things last.

What you will need

To mend a ripped seam by hand, gather the following tools:

A sewing needle
Matching thread (about 40 centimetres)
Scissors
Pins or masking tape
Seam ripper (optional but useful for tidying up old threads)
An iron (if the garment care label allows)

These basic tools are ideal for travel repairs, small home fixes, or moments when you want to reconnect with your clothing through a slower, more intentional process.

Step-by-step: how to mend a ripped seam

Step 1: Turn the Garment Inside Out

Begin by turning your garment inside out so you can clearly see the inside of the seam. This gives you the best view of the damage and ensures your repair will be discreet. Lay the garment on a flat surface with the torn area easily accessible.

Step 2: Assess the Tear

Identify where the seam has come undone and where it is still intact. Look for stretched or fraying edges. If the surrounding fabric looks worn, you may want to reinforce a slightly larger section to prevent future tearing. Keep in mind that this method applies to tears along a seam line, not through the middle of a fabric panel.

Step 3: Remove Any Loose Threads

If there are loose or tangled threads at either end of the tear, use a seam ripper or scissors to gently tidy them. Removing these old threads creates a clean edge for your repair and ensures a smooth, secure stitch path.

Step 4: Tie Off Existing Threads (if needed)

At each end of the tear, check for hanging threads. Tie a small double knot in any loose pairs to secure the seam and prevent further fraying. Trim excess thread with scissors. This step is especially helpful if the seam was beginning to unravel at the ends.

Step 5: Align the Fabric Edges

Use pins or masking tape to hold the edges of the tear neatly together. Begin pinning from the centre of the tear and work outward, matching up the original seam allowance and keeping the fabric edges even. If the fabric is wrinkled or uneven, a light press with an iron can help smooth it.

Step 6: Thread Your Needle

Cut about 40 centimetres of thread and double it for strength. Thread the needle with the two cut ends and tie a knot to secure the looped end. This creates a strong, reinforced thread ideal for holding seams securely through regular wear.

Step 7: Begin Sewing Before the Tear

Insert your needle into the existing seam approximately one centimetre before the beginning of the tear. This overlap reinforces the new stitches and integrates the repair into the original seam. Use small, even backstitches for the strongest hold.

Step 8: Stitch Through the Seam

Continue stitching along the tear, sewing through both layers of fabric. Follow the original seam line if it is visible, or aim to replicate its placement. Keep your stitches neat and close together, this ensures a clean finish and prevents gaps.

Step 9: Finish Past the Tear

Once you reach the end of the tear, continue stitching about one centimetre into the undamaged seam. This extra reinforcement keeps the seam from unravelling again and integrates the repair naturally.

Step 10: Tie Off and Trim

Flip the fabric slightly to the inside of the seam, tie a secure knot close to the fabric surface, and trim the thread about half a centimetre from the knot. Take care not to cut the fabric or loosen your final stitches.

A note on seam repairs

Seam tears are natural over time, especially in high-wear areas like underarms, side seams, or trouser seats. Hand-sewing a torn seam not only restores a garment’s function but also connects you to the longevity and story of what you wear. It is a small gesture that values quality over convenience and contributes to a more sustainable approach to wardrobe care.

Need a spare?

If you need extra thread, a fabric swatch, or a label replacement for your Afar piece, we are happy to help. Contact us, and we will arrange what you need to complete your repair.

Taking the time to mend a ripped seam is a reminder that clothing is worth caring for. These quiet moments of repair bring us closer to the things we own, and help them stay with us, longer. With each stitch, you strengthen not only your garments but also your connection to them.

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.

Thank you for choosing a slower way of dressing. Small repairs are part of a wardrobe made to last.

From our studio to your wardrobe, with love, John and Jana