If your favourite pair of pants is on its last legs, don’t rush to grab the scissors and turn them into shorts—try the Japanese mending technique called “Sashiko.”
Sashiko is an art form and a practical skill for mending clothes that repairs a tear transforming the garment into something new and uniquely you!
- Rather than trying to hide the tear with invisible stitching that requires a more skilled sewing technique, visible mending is all about showing off the repair (along with your craftiness and creativity.)
All you need is a holey garment, a needle and some thread! Even if you’re a beginner, visible mending is meant to highlight imperfections. No need to fret about uneven or jagged stitching—it just gives the garment more character.
Some tips for beginners:
- The thread should contrast with the garment you’re repairing.
- Sashiko translates to “little stabs,” so a thimble is a good idea—unless you like the look of blood stains on your clothes.
- Use a piece of chalk and a ruler to trace a pattern if you’re working on a large item of clothing.
Visible mending isn’t just a money saver but also a good sustainability practice—learning to repair your own stuff will allow you to keep your favourite pieces in your closet longer.
- And it’s becoming very à la mode as brands look to separate themselves from the fast fashion frenzy.
Need some inspiration? There are loads of instructional resources available online, but this three-part YouTube series goes over materials, techniques and patterns if you want to become a visible mending master.