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Repairing Clothes at Home: What You Can Fix Yourself
The skill of repairing clothing has almost entirely disappeared from everyday life. A generation ago, repairing before replacing was the norm. Learning just a handful of basic repairs can significantly extend the life of your wardrobe and save money every year.
Repairs anyone can learn
- Reattaching a button — takes five minutes, requires only a needle and thread
- Fixing a small hole with a running stitch — visible darning can look intentional
- Re-hemming trousers by hand — no sewing machine needed
- Tightening a loose seam — prevents it becoming a large tear
- Replacing elastic in waistbands — completely revives worn loungewear
When to take it to a tailor
Zip replacement, significant structural repairs, and alterations to the cut of a garment are worth taking to a professional. A good tailor charges €10–€30 for most common repairs — far less than replacing the item. Building a relationship with a local tailor is one of the best investments a clothes-lover can make.
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