Skill Guide: Learn Two Versatile Methods of Visible Mending

One of my favorite trends of the past few years has to be visible mending. Using just a few simple tools, you can turn unsightly stains and holes into something beautiful extending the life of your favorite textiles. Accidentally stain your favorite handwoven table runner or rip a beloved pair of jeans? Visible mending will help you keep these items in action!

Of course, visible mending techniques are good for more than just repairs. Have you ever found a shirt, hat, or jacket at the thrift store that was perfect, except for a garish corporate logo? Don't put it back on the rack! Instead, try covering up those logos up with visible mending techniques (just make sure if they're embroidered to rip out the stitching first). Even better? All you need is a needle and some embroidery floss or yarn, although a darning loom can help, too.

Today’s Skill Guide will give you a solid foundation in the basics of visible mending using embroidery and a darning loom. As you read, you’ll learn:

• Tips and tricks for a smoother visible mending experience.
• Four basic embroidery stitches.
• Step-by-step darning loom instructions.
• Advice from an expert on using a darning loom.

Every item we’ve selected for this guide is part of your All Access program and will help you get the most out of your subscription. Check out the Little Looms Library and our video course website for more learning opportunities.

Happy Weaving,
Christina

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Darning Loom Basics

Adapted from "Mending the Visible (and Invisible)" by Emily Hartford

With a resurgence of the popularity of mending, darning looms are once again becoming beloved tools. The original Speedweve looms are now treasured antiques, and new versions are available in plastic, metal, and wood, making darning via loom more accessible than ever.

Darning looms are simple tools that allow you to create a small area of weaving to cover up a hole or stain. While the patches are woven, they can be used on knit fabric as well—including on socks! Photo by Emily Hartford

How to Use a Darning Loom

A darning loom comes with three distinct pieces: a wooden disk or plate to hold the shape of the spot to be mended, a loom piece, and rubber bands or another tool to hold the other two pieces together and in place. Once you have your pieces ready, select a garment or piece of fabric that you’d like to mend.