Mending a Ripped Seam

One of the most common and frustrating garment mishaps are split seams. No matter what types of garment it is, the seam is the weakest part since it is where two or more pieces of fabric come together. Usually seams are joined with a piece or two of thread which can easily tear under excessive pressure.

The good news is that repairing torn seams is relatively easy, and you don't even have to be very good at sewing to do it. Here are some tips for how to mend a ripped seam to get you started.

1. Start by examining the fabric on either side of the seam where it has torn. Sometimes seams come apart neatly; while other times the surrounding fabric may be slightly ripped or unraveling. If the fabric is still tidy then you are set to move on. If there are excess threads hanging off you should trim them and get the fabric neat and tidy to make your job of sewing easier.

If the fabric is ripped or unraveling you may need to reinforce it with fusible interfacing or a patch on the back side of the fabric. Your goal is to have the fabric on both sides of the seam neat, tidy and sturdy so that your repaired seam will hold and will match the rest of the seam.

2. Pin the seam together so it matches perfectly with the untorn, original seam. It should already be creased or folded correctly so you should be able to precisely match it with relative ease.

3. Choose a matching thread color and thread a needle. Keep in mind that thicker, denser fabrics such as denim will require a sturdier, thicker needle than thin fabrics like silk. Tie a knot at the end of the thread that is large enough that it won't pull through the fabric.

4. You want your stitching to overlap with the original seam stitching for a little ways to make the transition between the original seam and the mended area smoother and stronger. Begin stitching about 1/2"-3/4" away from the rip and stitch toward the rip.

Pull the needled down through both pieces of fabric. Bring the needle back up through the fabric again about 1 mm over from where you pulled the thread down through. Continue stitching until you have reached the end of the rip. Securely tie off your thread and cut it.

That's it! Your seam should be mended and your garment should be wearable again.