As a student, doing whatever you can to save money is often the best way to go – student budgets can be tight, and you want to use whatever money you do have for food, study materials and having fun with flatmates and friends. Fixing and repairing clothes, rather than buying new ones, is a great way to save money and also protect the environment; plus you’ll feel like you’ve really accomplished something!
Essential Tools for Basic Repairs
Getting started with clothing repair doesn’t require much. With a small sewing kit, which can often be purchased for less than £10, you’ll have everything you need for basic fixes. A sewing kit typically includes:
- Needles and thread: For sewing up small tears or replacing buttons.
- Scissors: A sharp pair of scissors is essential for precise cutting.
- Pins: These hold fabric in place while you sew.
- Iron-on patches: Perfect for fixing holes in jeans or jackets quickly.
- Measuring tape: Useful for hemming or alterations.
Simple Repairs You Can Do Yourself
- Fixing Small Holes: Use a needle and thread to stitch up tears or apply an iron-on patch for a quick solution. You can even use contrasting thread for a decorative touch.
- Sewing on Buttons: Losing a button doesn’t mean you have to throw away the whole garment. YouTube tutorials can walk you through this simple task in minutes.
- Hemming Trousers or Skirts: If your clothes are too long, folding and sewing a hem can make them look tailored to you.
- Zipper Troubles: Stuck zippers can often be loosened with a bit of soap or wax, while broken ones might need replacing – this is another relatively simple task.
Where to Learn More
If you’re a complete beginner, there are plenty of resources to help you master the basics of repairing clothes. YouTube is a goldmine of tutorials, as are TikTok and Instagram, with creators demonstrating everything from sewing a button to more complex alterations. Many universities and community centres also run workshops on upcycling and repairing clothes, so keep an eye out on local pages.
Embrace the Trend
Repairing clothes isn’t just practical, it can be really stylish too. Sustainable fashion is growing in popularity, and many people are taking pride in their ability to fix and customise their clothes. You’ll end up with some really unique pieces! It’s a great conversation starter and a skill you’ll carry for life.
So, next time you find a hole in your jumper or a rip in your jeans, don’t toss it – repair it. With a little effort, you can save money, reduce waste, and extend the life of your wardrobe. Your wallet and the planet will thank you.