How to Darn Socks and Mend Holes in Knits, by Miss Matti on YouTube. 8 min 7 s.
- Video length
- 8 min 7 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 7
What you need
Steps
Turn the sock inside out and stretch the hole over a darning mushroom, egg or a smooth rounded object like a jar. This keeps the fabric flat and stops you sewing the two sides together.
Thread a blunt darning needle with yarn or thread that matches the sock's fibre and thickness. Wool socks take wool yarn, thin cotton socks take sewing thread.
Anchor the yarn with a few small running stitches in the solid fabric just outside the hole. Do not tie a knot, the woven patch will hold the end.
Sew horizontal running stitches across the hole, going into solid fabric on both sides. Keep the rows about 3 mm apart and leave the strands slightly loose.
Work vertical stitches across the horizontal strands, weaving over and under each one in turn. Alternate over and under on every row so the patch locks together like woven cloth.
Keep going until the hole is filled, then push the needle to the inside and weave the end through a few stitches. Trim the tail.
Turn the sock right side out, stretch it gently and check the patch lies flat. Add more rows if thin spots still show.
Tips and common mistakes
Pull the stitches only as tight as the surrounding fabric, or the darn will pucker and feel lumpy underfoot.
Darn a small hole as soon as you spot it, before thin yarn turns into a large tear.
Keep the needle in a pincushion or capped when you put the work down, since darning needles are easy to lose in fabric.
Use a smoother yarn on heels and toes so the patch does not rub against your shoe.
Questions
Do I need a darning mushroom?
No. A smooth jar, a tennis ball or an orange works just as well, as long as the surface is round and does not snag the yarn.
Can I darn with normal sewing thread?
Yes, for thin socks and small holes. Use doubled thread and keep the rows close together so the patch stays strong.
Will the repair show?
It can, especially if your yarn colour does not match. Matching yarn makes it nearly invisible, while contrast yarn gives a visible mending look.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
