Shoes and clothing repair jobs anyone can do

When clothes and shoes suffer from small rips, tears or holes, the easy option is to replace them with new items. But in a world of over-consumption, shouldn’t we avoid throwing items away that can be easily repaired?

From small tears and rips, to holes, and even broken soles, we give you some of the easiest shoe and clothing repair jobs you can do yourself.

Benefits of repairing shoes and clothes

There are loads of reasons to repair, rather than replace clothes, and money-saving is just one of them. For those who are trying to live a more sustainable lifestyle, then this is also a good way to make a difference. The production of new clothing is a significant contributor to energy use and clothing waste is a major cause of pollution.

Invest in quality, designer clothing to start with, which is less likely to suffer from wear and tear. Those who enjoy sourcing and styling vintage clothes will also benefit from a basic knowledge of repairing clothes, which keeps older items in circulation for longer.

When to repair clothes and shoes

The most important thing is not to waste any time; a rip, tear, hole, or broken shoe will only get worse if left. Wait till you’ve a quiet moment (when the dog is asleep and the kids are in bed). But also ensure you have plenty of light – you don’t want to be making it worse.

Simple DIY Repairs

Rips and tears

Repairing rips and tears to clothing with a needle and thread can be very easy, especially if the rip or tear is along an existing seam. A very small hole can also be stitched with a needle and thread, but significant holes need to be dealt with by darning or patches (both below).

• Tools Needed: Needle, thread, pins.
• Steps:
  1. To repair the rip, start by finding a thread that best matches the fabric.
  2. Use pins to hold the fabric in place, with the ripped ends facing inwards
  3. Turn the item inside out and sew just in from the pinned section, then go back on yourself to give it a bit more durability
  4. Knot the end, cut away any excess thread, turn the item the right way in, and then remove the pins.

Whilst making small repairs with a needle and thread, you could use this opportunity to personalise items by way of embroidery. This is a great idea if you have more than one child with similar clothes.

Re-affixing loose soles

If the sole has started to come away from the upper shoe, there’s no reason to throw them in the bin. This type of fix can be repaired with glue in no time.

• Tools Needed: Shoe glue, nitrile gloves, clamp or band, damp cloth.
• Steps:
  1. Start by popping on a pair of nitrile gloves and then give both surfaces a clean with a damp cloth.
  2. Apply a good layer of glue to the sole.
  3. Press the two together, then use a clamp or elastic band to hold them in place.
  4. Leave the shoe overnight to ensure the bond sets properly.
  5. Once the sole and upper shoe are completely fixed fast, use a little nail polish remover to get rid of any visible glue.

The art of darning small holes

Of all the repair tips in this article, darning requires the most skill. Every grandmother worth her salt knows how to darn, but it’s fast becoming a lost art. Darning is not limited to socks either, you can also mend holes in any item of clothing with darning. Use a YouTube video (or a real-life granny) as a visual aid.

• Tools Needed: Darning needle, yarn, scissors, darning egg (or similar round object like a tennis ball).
• Steps:
  1. Place the darning egg under the hole to stretch the fabric.
  2. Use the needle and yarn to weave a crisscross pattern, creating a patch over the hole.
  3. Trim excess yarn once the patch is secure.

Patching large holes

Large holes can be patched, but there are times when this just won’t look good and you have to accept the item has gone. However, anything made from tough fabrics, such as denim or corduroy can be patched. Patches are best on joints such as elbows and knees. If worn with aplomb, a contrast patch can actually add an aesthetic charm to an item.

• Tools Needed: Fabric patches, sewing kit, iron-on adhesive (optional).
• Steps:
  1. Cut a patch slightly larger than the hole.
  2. Attach it to the inside or outside of the garment, depending on your preference.
  3. Sew around the edges using a matching or contrasting thread for durability and style.
  4. For extra reinforcement, use an iron-on adhesive before sewing.

Tailoring Repairs to the Item

Not all repairs suit every item:

• Shoes: Use waterproof adhesives for leather or rubber soles.
• Delicate Fabrics: Use finer needles and thread to avoid further damage.
• Heavy Fabrics: Reinforce repairs with sturdy thread or double stitching.

Tips for a Professional Finish

• Keep Tools Handy: A small repair kit with basic supplies (needle, thread, glue, scissors, and patches) can be invaluable.
• Use Quality Materials: Cheap thread or glue may not hold up over time, so invest in trusted brands.
• Practice Patience: Rushing can make things worse. Take your time for a clean, lasting repair.

Knowing When to Seek Professional Help

For certain issues, such as repairing leather soles or addressing intricate fabric damage, it may be best to consult a professional cobbler or tailor. This ensures the integrity and longevity of valuable items.

Conclusion

Repairing your clothes and shoes is much easier than you think and requires very few tools aside from some quality glue, a needle, thread, some patches, and possibly a ball or egg for darning. Not only will repairing clothes help keep vintage and designer items going for longer, but it is a much more sustainable approach to modern life.