Did you know that you don’t have to say goodbye to your favorite t-shirt just because you’ve worn a hole in it? That’s right—there is actually a way to repair the garment to a wearable condition all without touching that sewing machine. It’s the absolute easiest way to extend the life of those shirts because—get this—the process won’t take you more than 10 minutes!
Today’s helpful tip comes to us today from those needle and thread connoisseurs over at YouTube channel Professor Pincushion. Our host, Tova, will show us everything we need to know about successfully completing this idiot-proof no-sew patching technique.
But, before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s first gather together our materials:
- Damaged shirt (hole should be in the shape of a pinhole, measuring to 5 millimeters or less)
- Iron
- Ironing board
- Fusible bonding web
- Cutaway stabilizer
- Parchment paper
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Semi-iridescent pressed cloth
Heat it up
Turn your t-shirt inside out and place on the ironing board with the hole facing towards you. Iron the section of material on and around the hole until the area is completely wrinkle free. Once cool, use your finger to bring together the excess pieces of string around the hole so that it is completely covered.
Prepare the repair
Professor Picushion
Remove your t-shirt from the ironing board, then cover it with a piece of parchment paper—this will ensure that nothing sticks to the surface! Replace the tee, then take a 1-inch square of fusible bonding web and set it over the damaged area, followed by a slightly larger piece of cutaway stabilizer directly over it.
Bandage up that hole
Switch your iron to the wool setting—don’t worry about fabric damage, this method is safe for any cotton tee—then, gently place a white, semi-iridescent pressed cloth over the web and stabilizer, and dampen the area using a spray bottle.
Once moistened, take your heated iron and place it directly on top of the damaged area. Our host tell us that there is no need to press or shift the cloth. Just place the iron on top for 10 seconds, then carefully remove so as not to disturb the webbing.
Perform the finishing touches
Remove the cloth and turn the tee inside out so that the ‘right’ side is facing you. Take a look at the hole; if you notice that not all loose threads have merged, repeat step one and gather the area together by using your fingers. Then, press the side with the iron once again.
This process may take you a few tries, but once you get it, you will know—that unsightly hole will be completely gone!
We wish we had heard about this one a loooong time ago! To learn how to make a more permanent repair by using a simple needle and thread technique, be sure to click on Professor Pincushion’s video below!
What do you think of Professor Pincushion’s no-sew patching technique? Have you ever tried this particular method before? How do you mend your t-shirts? Tell us all about your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below!
