Make Do and Mend: Easy Sewing Repairs to Extend Your Wardrobe's Life
Hi there sewing friends !
Ever wondered how small sewing repairs can make a big difference in your wardrobe? Today, I’m diving into the joys of mending and why it’s such an important step toward a more sustainable lifestyle. As I work through my Christmas sewing projects and watch documentaries like Netflix’s Buy Now, I’ve been reflecting on the power of repairing, reusing, and making the most of what we already have. Whether you’re an experienced sewist or someone new to sewing, this post is for you. Let’s explore how to give your garments a second life!
Repairing Clothes: A Small Step with Big Impact
We often think sewing is only about creating new things, but mending is just as valuable. For example, I recently repaired my beloved turtleneck, a piece I made six years ago. Over the years, it’s faced some wear and tear—loose seams, minor fabric damage, and fraying hems. By simply reinforcing weak areas and re-stitching parts of the garment, I’ve ensured it stays in my wardrobe for many more winters. These small repairs not only extend the life of your clothes but also teach you valuable lessons about how garments are constructed and where they’re most likely to wear out.
What’s more, repairing your clothes builds a deeper connection with them. Each stitch tells a story. My turtleneck reminds me of how far I’ve come in my sewing journey and how much I’ve learned about working with knit fabrics. Every repair is a chance to improve your skills and appreciate your handmade or purchased items even more.
Mending to Combat Overconsumption
The Netflix documentary Buy Now really hit home for me—it sheds light on the impact of overconsumption and the fashion industry’s unsustainable practices. Did you know that Australia is one of the largest consumers of textiles, with each person averaging 55–60 new clothing items per year? That’s a staggering amount! While this level of consumption might feel overwhelming, we can take action by starting small, like mending a loose seam or hemming a pair of pants instead of throwing them away.
Sewing repairs are a direct response to fast fashion’s throwaway culture. By repairing what we own, we reduce waste, save money, and avoid contributing to the cycle of overproduction. For example, I recently mended my pajama shorts, which had a small tear in the waistband. Instead of discarding them and making a new pair, I spent 15 minutes reinforcing the stitching—and they’re as good as new. These small actions may seem insignificant, but they add up over time and make a real difference.
Building a Mindset of Sustainability and Creativity
Mending isn’t just about fixing clothes—it’s about shifting your mindset. When I repaired a summer top I made from vintage Liberty fabric, it wasn’t just about functionality. The top holds sentimental value because of the story behind it: my sister’s dog, Lucy, once used the fabric as a chew toy! Every time I wear it, I’m reminded of that funny memory, and the small hand-stitches I added to reinforce it feel like a tribute to its story.
Repairing also fosters creativity. Each time I fix a weak spot, I think about how to improve my sewing for future projects. For instance, after noticing wear on the straps of the Liberty top, I realized the importance of reinforcing stress points with extra stitching. These lessons make me a better sewist and ensure that my handmade wardrobe becomes more durable with every piece.
Make do and mend
Mending your clothes isn’t just practical—it’s deeply rewarding. Each repair adds life to your garments and helps you connect with them in a meaningful way. It’s also a step toward combating overconsumption and embracing a sustainable lifestyle. Whether it’s repairing a cherished turtleneck, reinforcing pajama shorts, or adding stitches to a summer top, every small action contributes to a bigger change.
So, the next time something in your wardrobe needs fixing, don’t toss it out—pick up your needle and thread! Let’s make sewing repairs part of our journey toward a more mindful, creative, and sustainable world.
Get "Sewing for Beginners" Ebook
If you’ve been looking for an easy and fun way to start sewing, the Sewing for Beginners: Step-by-Step Guide is the resource you need. With simple instructions, exciting projects like the summer skirt, bucket hat, and scrunchie, and valuable sewing techniques, this ebook will help you build confidence and skills in no time. So why not dive in and start your sewing journey today? I can’t wait to see what you sew !