How to sew a hole; a gentle guide to repairing small tears in clothing
Not all damage signals the end of a garment. A small hole, whether from wear, a snag, or an accidental tear, can often be mended by hand using simple tools and a few minutes of care. These quiet acts of repair not only restore the garment's function but deepen its story. In this guide, we show you how to sew a hole in a way that is clean, sturdy, and aligned with the principles of thoughtful, lasting fashion.
What you will need
Gather these essentials before beginning:
A sewing needle
Matching thread (about 40 centimetres)
Small scissors or thread snips
Pins (optional)
An iron (if the garment allows)
Fabric patch (optional, for larger holes or weakened areas)
Having the right tools on hand allows you to focus on the repair itself, bringing ease and clarity to the process.
Step-by-step: how to sew a hole in clothing
Step 1: Examine the hole
Turn the garment inside out and observe the area. Is the hole near a seam or in the main fabric panel? Are the edges frayed or clean? Understanding the location and condition of the tear will help determine your approach.
Step 2: Clean up the edges
Using small scissors, carefully trim any loose threads around the hole. This helps prevent tangling and makes it easier to achieve a neat stitch. Be gentle to avoid further tearing.
Step 3: Bring the edges together
For small holes (up to 1–2 cm), gently ease the fabric edges together using your fingers. Use pins to hold them in place if necessary. If the fabric is stretched or the hole is larger, consider placing a lightweight patch behind the tear to stabilise the area.
Step 4: Thread the needle
Cut a length of matching thread, about 40 centimetres long. Fold it in half and thread the two ends through the eye of the needle, creating a double thread. Tie a small knot at the end to secure it. For finer fabrics like linen or silk, use a finer thread.
Step 5: Begin stitching
Start your stitching slightly before the edge of the hole to reinforce the area. Use a whipstitch or ladder stitch, gently sewing the edges together with small, even stitches. Keep the tension firm but not tight, so the repair sits flat against the fabric.
Step 6: Reinforce the area (if needed)
In areas of frequent wear, such as elbows, knees or underarms, consider reinforcing your repair. You can either go over the stitch line a second time or place a soft fabric patch on the inside of the garment for added durability.
Step 7: Finish and tie off
Once the hole is fully closed, make a secure knot on the inside of the garment and trim the excess thread. Ensure the stitch line feels smooth and does not pull at the surrounding fabric.
Step 8: Press the repair (if applicable)
If the garment's care instructions permit, gently press the mended area with a warm iron. This helps blend the repair into the surrounding fabric and gives a cleaner finish.
When to use a patch
If the hole is larger than 2-3 centimetres, or if the surrounding fabric is thin or fraying, it may be best to use a patch. A patch can be applied discreetly on the inside, or visibly for a subtle, expressive touch. Choose natural, breathable materials where possible.
Why small repairs matter
Sewing a hole is a simple way to honour your clothing. We believe in garments that grow with you, season after season. Each repair is a quiet declaration of value, a reminder that clothing can be both beautiful and enduring when cared for with intention.
Need materials?
If your Afar garment requires matching thread, a fabric patch or replacement trims, we are happy to help. Reach out to us, and we will happily organise what you need.
Taking time to repair a hole strengthens more than just a garment; it strengthens your connection to the things you choose to keep close. These small acts of care are what give clothing its longevity and meaning.
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