This week I repaired an old favorite sweater.
My work can be hard on my clothes, so I have a few designated “work sweaters.” This wool sweater, even though it’s ill fitting and really kind of frumpy, tends to be my favorite. It’s loose and warm and easy to toss off and on throughout the day.
Some time last year, one of the elbows developed a hole, which got so big I stopped wearing it, afraid I would ruin it forever… But I missed that old sweater…
Before patching, I sewed the hole up, loosely but securely, so it wouldn’t continue to unravel.
I almost could have called it done at this point, but that fix is not nearly as fun or lasting as patching.
I made a patch pattern to my desired shape and size, and then cut 2 patches from an old leather skirt. Then I marked out and punched my stitch holes.
The location of the hole was the perfect reference for where to place the patch. For the other sleeve, I matched it to the first by measuring, and then eyeballing it into position.
I think that now it’s better than new! I also like to think my sweater even looks a little less frumpy now.
Are you a fan of elbow patches? I love how this look has made a comeback in recent years.
More patches from the past – tweed on cashmere.
