Useful list of hints and thoughts about successfully mending denim

(The big pile of denim scraps above allows one to pick and choose a favorite shade to patch jeans.)

Mending denim is one of the more satisfying and calming sewing skills. As you work, your mind easily wanders around with thoughts about food (always pleasant) or memories of the day. For me it conjures up the joy of knitting. You gaze with pride at your handiwork.  But after all your effort and time, you do want to be assured that your mending will be enjoyed and also durable. Through mending jeans for my own family I have learned a few useful and tried and true steps and techniques.  These ideas have been gathered together onto a list and I wanted to share it with you, hoping that it will help you avoid some of my silly mistakes ...

Click here to download the list or check it out.

Your comments or emails with your own hints, struggles or wishes, about mending denim are warmly welcomed.

How to hem jeans with designer style

click here for tutorial

Even though hemming jeans is one of the most common clothing alterations, surprisingly, it is rarely sewn correctly (and when it’s wrong it’s truly glaring, like a billboard wrapped around your ankles.) The widespread mistake is to just fold the excess length back and stitch it like any other pants. This is in conflict with the stitching and washed details on the cuff that need to be seen and not hidden.
When jeans need to be shortened the hem should be durable, invisible and not change the style or look of the jeans. The hemming technique in this tutorial is designed especially for denim. I love to give names to techniques and this is named "For Your Eyes Only" due to how it blends so seamlessly, that only the seamstress knows it’s there. As you will discover, it is simple and easy to do, or, if you’re not a seamstress, then to explain, to the person who will shorten your jeans. Repairing jeans is a pleasure because the material sews beautifully and the wearer is so appreciative.
Click here to download or print the tutorial.