How to Darn a Sock: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever found a hole in a favorite pair of socks, you know how frustrating it can be. Instead of tossing them out, you can easily mend them! Learning how to darn a sock is a simple and resourceful skill that not only saves money but also reduces waste. Follow this guide to breathe new life into your well-loved socks.

What You Need to Darn a Sock

• A darning egg: This is placed inside the sock to provide a firm surface for mending.
  • Don’t have a darning egg? No problem! You can use items like a small ball, a smooth stone, or even a fruit from your child’s play kitchen. I used one of our toy apples, and it worked perfectly!
• Thread: The type of thread you use will depend on the sock and your preference. Be sure to choose a thread with a thickness similar to the original sock yarn for the best results. Here are some great options:
  • Sock yarn: A durable and stretchy choice that blends well with knitted socks.
  • Yarn from an old sock: Unravel an unrepairable sock and reuse its yarn for an eco-friendly fix.
  • Embroidery floss: Ideal for colorful repairs or embellishments.
  • Sewing thread: Works in a pinch for lightweight socks but may not last as long.
  • Crochet thread: A sturdy option for heavier socks.
• Needle: A darning, embroidery, or tapestry needle works best because of its blunt tip and large eye.
• Scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions for How to Darn Socks

1.Prepare the Sock: 

• Place the darning egg (or your substitute) inside the sock under the hole. This will stretch the fabric slightly and provide a stable surface to work on.
• I also like to take a rubber band or hair tie to pull the sock taut over the darning egg.

2. Trim Loose Threads: 

• Gently trim any frayed or loose threads around the hole, but be careful not to make the hole larger.

3. Create the Vertical Threads: 

• Thread your needle with your chosen thread or yarn. Knot the end of the thread, then anchor it by stitching a few small loops just outside the edge of the hole.
• Begin creating vertical threads by stitching straight lines across the hole, from one side to the other. The end result should be a rectangle of threads covering the hole. Leave a little space between each thread (about the width of the original knit stitches).
• Continue until the entire hole is covered with vertical threads.

4. Weave the Horizontal Threads: 

• Knot a new length of thread, if needed, and anchor it outside the edge of the hole.
• Begin weaving horizontally across the vertical threads. Go over one thread, under the next, and repeat until you reach the other side of the hole.
• Once you reach the end of a row, thread the needle into and out of the sock at the end of row to anchor the thread to the sock.
• On the next row, alternate the over-and-under pattern to create a woven patch. Pull the thread snugly but not so tight that it distorts the sock. Gently push the threads down as you work to ensure a tighter weave. Once again, secure the thread to the sock at the end of each row.
• Once you reach the top of vertical threads, knot off the thread.

5. Finish the Edges: 

• Once the hole is fully repaired, secure your thread by stitching a few small loops just outside the edge of the hole. You can add a knot or two, but be careful to not make anything that will be uncomfortable for your foot.
• Trim any excess thread.

6. Test the Repair: 

• Gently stretch the sock to ensure the repair is secure and that the woven patch feels comfortable.

Tips for Success

• Choose a thread color that either blends with the sock for a seamless repair or contrasts for a decorative touch.
• If the hole is near a seam or on the heel, use extra care to secure the edges, as these areas experience more wear and tear.
• Practice on an old sock before tackling a pair you love.

Why Darn a Sock?

Learning how to darn a sock is a valuable skill that helps reduce waste and extend the life of your clothing. Plus, it’s a satisfying and creative way to add a personal touch to your wardrobe. Whether you use traditional sock yarn or get creative with thread from an unrepairable sock, darning is a rewarding activity that makes a difference.

Next time you notice a hole in your sock, grab a needle, some thread, and a makeshift darning egg, and give darning a try! It’s a simple way to practice resourceful living while keeping your favorite socks in rotation.