To darn socks and repair holes, follow these expert steps:
What You Need
- A sock with a hole
- A darning egg or mushroom (or a tennis ball, light bulb, or any round object to hold the sock taut)
- Needle (darning or tapestry needle)
- Thread or yarn matching the sock’s color and thickness (embroidery floss or darning wool work well)
- Rubber band or hair tie to secure the sock on the darning egg
Step-by-Step Guide
- Turn the sock inside out to keep the repair neat and avoid visible stitching on the outside. Trim any loose threads or fraying fabric around the hole
- Insert the darning egg inside the sock , positioning it so the hole is centered and the fabric is stretched taut. Secure the sock on the egg with a rubber band to prevent slipping
- Thread your needle with a length of thread or yarn. It's best not to tie a knot at the end to avoid discomfort inside the sock
- Start stitching around the hole by making rows of running stitches parallel to each other, covering the hole and extending about 1 cm beyond the edges. Pick up only the back loops of the sock fabric to keep the stitches hidden on the outside
- Weave stitches perpendicular to the first rows , passing the needle alternately over and under the threads of the first set. This creates a woven patch that replaces the missing fabric
- Finish by trimming any loose thread ends , then turn the sock right side out. The darned area should be smooth and comfortable to wear
Tips for Success
- Use thread or yarn that closely matches the sock’s original fabric in weight and color for a less noticeable repair
- Keep stitches tight and close together to reinforce the area and prevent the hole from enlarging
- Practice on an old sock first to get comfortable with the technique
- You can also use a sewing machine with a darning foot, but hand darning provides better texture and tension control
Darning can extend the life of your favorite socks and reduce waste by making them wearable again
