How to repair knitwear?

Knitwear repairs can be really time consuming, so if you decide it's not worth the potentially many days it could take to repair, what else could you do with it? Could the usable bits of it be cut up into patches for future repairs? Could you make something else out of it? Can it be recycled? Could it be sent to a company who will upcycle it for you? If it's a garment you really love and you like a challenge, it might be a fun project to make it last. You could even check advice from knitwear manufacturers since many offer tips to keep them in good shape.

Before You Begin

Never cut off the snagged thread or use a sweater shaver or razor to remove the thread. Doing so can cause the snagged thread to begin to unravel. Never pull on the sweater, either, hoping the extra thread will just disappear. Instead, repair the snag quickly to prevent it from worsening as part of basic knitwear repairs.

How To Fix a Snag

Use a Crochet Hook to Grab the Snag

Start by inserting the crochet hook from the wrong (opposite) side of the sweater through to the front side at the snag—this is essential when learning how to fix a knit sweater.If you don't have a crochet hook, straighten out a paper clip, and create a small hook at the end. Leave the hook slightly open so you can capture the snagged yarn.

Pull the Snag to the Other Side

Use the hook to pull the loose thread on the front of the fabric through to the back side of the sweater. You can also push the snag to the wrong side of the fabric through a gap in the knitting by using a large, blunt needle.

Smooth the Pulled Threads

Now, turn the sweater inside out. Gently pull the knitted fabric if the site of the snag is rippled. With gentle manipulation, some of the snagged thread will often ease back into place during knitted sweater repair.

Knot in Place

If the snag hasn't broken and is still connected to the sweater on both ends, use the crochet hook to make a loop of the loose yarn. Pull the end of the yarn through the loop to create a small knot on the inside of the sweater. Again, don't cut the thread; just create a knot to hold it in place on the wrong side of the fabric.

If the yarn has broken and is loose on one end, tie a knot in the loose yarn as close to the inside surface of the sweater as possible.

Secure the Knot with Nail Polish

Dot the knot and any cut ends of the yarn with a tiny bit of clear nail polish. Allow the nail polish to dry completely before you turn the sweater back to the right side out.

Do a Final Check

Turn the sweater to the right side, and check the site of the snag. Gently smooth, tug, or pull the knit back into shape. If the sweater still looks rippled, use a clothes steamer or a steam iron to smooth the fabric.

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