Mending Holes In T-Shirts: Easy Fixes For Favorite Tees

If you're tired of throwing away your favourite t-shirts because of holes, there are several ways to fix them, with or without sewing. One method is to use fusible interfacing, a small piece of lightweight fusible interfacing, a small piece of Stitch Witchery or fusible webbing, an iron and an ironing board. Cut the interfacing and webbing into squares, place the webbing on the hole, then the interfacing on the webbing. Iron the patch for 10 seconds, flip the shirt, and use your fingernails to close the hole. Alternatively, you can use a needle and thread, or fabric glue, to close the hole.

Using fusible interlining

Fusible interlining is a special fabric with hot-melt glue on one side. It can be used to fix a hole in your t-shirt without sewing. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Materials

First, you will need to gather the following materials: a small piece of fusible interlining, an iron and ironing board, and a press cloth (or any piece of cloth or fabric). The fusible interlining should be slightly larger than the hole, and you can find it online, on Amazon, or in local DIY shops.

Step 2: Prepare the T-Shirt

Lay your t-shirt inside out on the ironing board. Close the hole by pressing its sides together.

Step 3: Apply the Fusible Interlining

Place the fusible interlining, glue side down, on top of the hole. Then, lay the press cloth over it.

Step 4: Iron the Interlining

Place your hot iron on the press cloth and hold it in place for about 10 seconds. Do not iron back and forth, as this may cause the interlining to shift.

That's it! You have now fixed the hole in your t-shirt without sewing. This method is quick and easy, and it will allow you to continue wearing your favourite t-shirt.

Sewing by hand with a needle and thread

Sewing a hole in a T-shirt by hand is a straightforward process that can be done by anyone, even those with no prior sewing experience. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Choose the Right Thread

Select a matte thread that matches the colour of your T-shirt. Opt for a darker shade if you can't find an exact match. Avoid shiny or reflective thread, as it will stand out against the fabric. Clear thread is another option, as it will be invisible.

Step 2: Thread the Needle

Cut a piece of thread about 24 inches (61 cm) long with fabric scissors. Insert one end through the eye of the needle and pull it through until both ends are even. Then, tie a knot at the ends of the thread. If you're having trouble getting the thread through the eye, try dampening the tip by briefly touching it to your tongue.

Step 3: Start Stitching

Turn the T-shirt inside out. Begin stitching by poking the needle through the fabric from the inside, about 0.2 inches (0.51 cm) above and to the right of the hole. Pull the thread up until the knot catches on the fabric. Then, push the needle down through the hole and back up through the fabric on the left side of the hole.

Step 4: Continue Stitching

Continue alternating stitches between the left and right sides of the hole. Make your stitches as close to the previous stitch as possible to secure the thread. Pull the fabric on both sides of the hole together as you sew. Continue until you reach the bottom of the hole, and it is completely sewn closed.

Step 5: Secure the Thread

Bring the needle inside the T-shirt and tie several knots close to the fabric. Cut off any excess thread with scissors. To create a secure knot, hold the needle between two fingers and wrap the thread around it three times. Pull the needle up through the loops and continue pulling until all the thread is pulled through. Repeat this process to create multiple knots.

Using fabric glue

First, make sure the area around the hole is clean and dry. If the T-shirt is wrinkled, iron the section of the material on and around the hole until the area is completely wrinkle-free. Then, use your finger to bring together any excess pieces of string or loose threads around the hole so that it is completely covered.

Next, apply a thin layer of fabric glue over the tear. You can find specialist products designed to glue fabric to fabric at your local craft or sewing store. Be careful not to use too much glue, as it may cause discolouration or make the fabric stiff and less flexible.

Finally, leave the glue to dry completely before wearing your T-shirt again. Always follow the specific instructions on your chosen glue, as different products will have varying drying times and application techniques.

Adding decorative patches

Step 1: Find the Right Patch

Look for a patch that matches the colour and fabric of your t-shirt. If your t-shirt has a busy print, look for a patch that will blend in with the print. If you have to choose between a darker and lighter shade, go with the darker shade as it will be less noticeable. You can also get creative and choose a patch with a fun design or logo that reflects your personality.

Step 2: Prepare the Patch and T-shirt

Ensure that your t-shirt is clean and dry before starting. Place the t-shirt on a flat surface with the area where you want to attach the patch facing up. If you want to protect the fabric from direct heat, you can place a thin cloth or parchment paper over the patch and t-shirt.

Step 3: Position the Patch

Carefully position the patch on the desired location of the t-shirt. Make sure it is centred and aligned properly. If you are using pins, you can use them to temporarily secure the patch in place.

Step 4: Attach the Patch

There are several ways to attach the patch to your t-shirt:

• Iron-on patches: These patches have a sticky back that is activated when applied with heat. Place the patch on the desired location and use an iron to press down on the patch for about 10-15 seconds.
• Fabric glue: Apply a thin, even layer of fabric glue to the back of the patch and press it onto the t-shirt. Let the glue dry overnight before wearing or washing the t-shirt.
• Fusible bonding web: Cut a piece of fusible bonding web slightly larger than the patch. Place the adhesive side of the web onto the back of the patch and trace the outline. Cut out the centre of the web, leaving a border of at least 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) around the patch. Place the bonding web between the patch and the t-shirt, making sure it cannot be seen through. Use an iron to press down on the patch and bonding web for about 10 seconds.
• Sewing: If you want a more secure attachment, you can sew the patch onto the t-shirt by hand or using a sewing machine. Choose a thread colour that matches the patch or t-shirt and use small, even stitches to sew around the edges of the patch.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Once the patch is attached, you can add some extra stitches across the centre of the patch for added security. You can also experiment with different stitch patterns or thread colours to add a unique touch to your t-shirt.

Using a patch of matching lightweight fabric and bonding web

Next, place the bonding web over the hole so that the hole is centred, and trace the outline with a fabric pen or pencil. Cut out the centre of the fusible web, leaving at least 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) of bonding web on each side of the hole. Now, flip the t-shirt inside out and place the bonding web and fabric patch over the hole, with the side of the fabric that you want to show through facing down.

Finally, iron the patch and bonding web onto the t-shirt. Press the iron down and hold it in place for around 10 seconds. Do not iron back and forth as this may cause the patch to shift. After ironing, turn the t-shirt right side out and the hole should be covered.

Frequently asked questions