Mending · Beginner · 30 minutes

Patch a Hole

A patch covers a hole with a new piece of fabric. An iron-on patch is quickest. A sewn patch is softer and lasts longer. You can even stitch around an iron-on patch to get both.

You'll need

patch fabric (or a ready-made iron-on patch)
scissors
iron and pressing cloth
pins
needle and thread

Step by step

Tick each step as you go if you like; ticks stay on this device.

Wash and trimStart with a clean garment. Trim away ragged threads around the hole, and square it off if that's easy.
Choose a patchPick fabric close to the garment in weight, color and feel. A ready-made iron-on patch works too.
Iron-on: cut and roundCut the patch at least 1 inch bigger than the hole on every side, and round the corners so they don't peel.
Iron-on: fuse itPlace the patch glue side down, usually on the inside. Cover with a pressing cloth and press as the package says. Let it cool completely.
Sewn: cut and foldCut a patch about 2 inches bigger than the hole. Fold the edges under 1/2 inch and press.
Sewn: pin and stitchPin the patch flat and straight over the hole. Sew all around the folded edge with small backstitches, slip stitches or blanket stitches, or by machine.

Tips

Stitching around an iron-on patch keeps it from lifting in the wash.
Fix holes and tears early. They only get bigger.
A bright patch on purpose can look great. Mending doesn't have to hide.

Safe habits

An iron is very hot. Stand it on its heel between presses and keep the cord out of the way.

See it in the old books

Pictures and lessons from sewing and knitting books published more than a hundred years ago, free at the Internet Archive.

Sources

These are free how-to guides for families. There's nothing to earn, pass or send in.