How to darn a hole in a sock with needle and thread

You will learn to close a hole in a sock by weaving a small patch over it with needle and thread. This suits beginners and anyone who wants to repair everyday socks instead of throwing them away. You only need basic sewing supplies and a smooth round object to hold the sock steady.

How to Mend a Sock with Darning, by Socorro Society on YouTube. 2 min 18 s.

Video length
2 min 18 s
Time to do it
15 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
10

What you need

Steps

  1. Turn the sock inside out and slide a darning mushroom or smooth round object under the hole.

  2. Trim loose fuzz and frayed threads around the hole with small scissors, but do not cut good fabric.

  3. Thread a darning needle with sock yarn or matching thread and knot the end.

  4. Push the needle up through the sock just outside one edge of the hole.

  5. Work rows of running stitches across the hole, starting and ending about 1 cm beyond the edges.

  6. Turn the work 90 degrees and weave a second set of stitches over and under the first, like a simple potholder.

  7. Keep the stitches snug but not tight so the patch lies flat and the sock can still stretch.

  8. Continue weaving until the hole is fully covered and the patch blends into the surrounding fabric.

  9. Secure the thread on the inside with a few small stitches and trim the excess.

  10. Turn the sock right side out and check the patch feels smooth, then wash as usual.

Tips and common mistakes

Choose thread or yarn close to the sock colour for a subtle mend, or a bright colour for visible mending.

Start and finish the patch on solid fabric, not at the thin edge of the hole.

Do not pull the stitches tight, or the patch will pucker and feel lumpy.

Keep your fingers away from the needle tip and store the needle safely when you stop.

Questions

Can I darn a sock without a darning mushroom?

Yes. Slide a smooth round object such as a small jar or tennis ball under the hole and work carefully.

What thread should I use to darn a sock?

Use sock yarn or matching thread. Thicker yarn suits thick socks, while fine thread suits thin dress socks.

Can I machine wash a darned sock?

Yes. Secure the ends on the inside and wash the sock as the care label allows.

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.

More in Crafts & Sewing

See all