If you are dealing with a fabric hole, tear or worn area, you may be asking “when should I repair this?” The answer depends on the fabric content, construction, and what kind of result you’re hoping for, whether that’s a nearly invisible fix or something more visibly mended and expressive.

Here’s a guide to help you decide the right timing for different types of garments…

Denim

Denim is one of the most forgiving and versatile fabrics when it comes to repair timing.

If your goal is a discreet repair, sooner is always better. Non-stretch denim can often be reinforced even before a hole fully forms, when the fabric is just beginning to thin. While larger holes can still be repaired in a subtle way, they require more time and cost due to the added work involved.

If you’re open to or excited about visible repairs, timing matters much less. Denim can handle bold patches, decorative stitching, and darning at almost any stage. Even large holes can become part of the garment’s story rather than something to hide.

*Repairing before a hole has broken through helps create a more discreet and lower cost repair.*

Stretch Fabrics

Many modern garments, especially jeans and fitted pants, include stretch fibers like elastane (also known as spandex or Lycra). You can usually confirm this by checking the garment’s content tag.

Stretch fabrics behave differently because the synthetic fibers break down faster than natural ones like cotton. This makes them more challenging to repair and typically less durable over time. Additionally, the repair will be much stronger than the fabric itself, so the next most likely place a hole will form is directly next to the repaired spot. That said, early repairs on thinning fabric will likely only expedite the tearing on other areas of the garment. We do not recommend reinforcing thinning areas like we do with 100% cotton denim. It is best to waiting as long as possible to repair garments with significant stretch. Get these repaired when you are unhappy with the hole.

Other Woven Fabrics

This category includes items like collared shirts, non-denim pants, jackets, and dresses.

In general, it’s best to repair these as soon as the damage bothers you. Unlike knits, woven fabrics generally won’t unravel quickly, so there’s usually no immediate urgency. However, waiting too long will eventually result in a larger damaged area, and therefore a more costly repair. This is a broad category with a lot of exceptions, so never hesitate to reach out with questions.

*A woven collar shirt with a hole near the cuff*

Lightweight Knits

Think t-shirts, leggings, and activewear (this does not include sweaters)

With knits, timing is more important. Once a hole appears, it’s best to repair it as soon as possible. Knit fabrics naturally unravel, which means small holes can grow quickly with wear and washing.

Unfortunately, thinning areas in lightweight knits are difficult to reinforce effectively, and we do not recommend repairing weak areas. But, once a hole forms, early repair can help extend the life of the garment.

*This is the perfect time to repair this cotton t-shirt. The holes are still small which will allow for a much more discreet and low-cost repair.*

Sweaters

Sweaters, require the most proactive care.

The ideal time to repair a sweater is before you even see a hole. Addressing thinning areas early is the simplest and most cost-effective option.

However, most sweater damage comes from moths or snags which means you have an unavoidable hole. If you notice a hole:

Stop wearing the garment immediately
Avoid pulling or stretching the area
If possible, use a safety pin to secure the hole and prevent further unraveling

Because sweaters are knit, they can unravel very easily. While large holes can still be repaired, they require detailed handwork and become significantly more expensive as they grow.

*Adding pins to sweater hoes will help keep them intact until a repair can be made.*

*If you do not have pins, you can use other items to secure holes, like this twist tie.*

When in doubt, ask…

Every garment is different, and sometimes the best course of action isn’t obvious. If you’re unsure whether something is worth repairing, how urgent it is, or what your options are—reach out.

We’re always happy to take a look, answer questions, and help you decide what makes the most sense for your clothes and your budget.

When’s the Best Time to Repair?