How to mend your jeans : a beginners guide to sashiko repairs

[@Gothlite-i1l]

That tip about washable markers is worth the price of admission alone - LOL! TFS.

[@zenstitching]

Im so pleased you found that helpful! 💙

[@susansashiko]

A good demo. You can buy sashiko needles and threads very easily online. However, sashiko thread and needles are not specifically designed for mending. They are designed for sashiko. Sashiko was traditionally added to garments and household textiles when they were first made. Using the fancier stitch patterns for mending isn’t traditional- although it does look good. It is a modern idea. When torn clothing was patched in Japan, what is now being referred to specifically as boro, the stitching was rarely hitomezashi (one stitch sashiko) like this. There are plenty of extant items which show how crudely the stitching was done. Hitomezashi patterns like the one being used for the repair here, were used in various parts of Japan - in Shōnai, Yamagata Prefecture, this jūjizashi (‘10’ 十 or cross pattern) was used on hanten work jackets and sorihikihappi sledge pulling waistcoats when they were made, and also used on Awaji island on fishermen’s donza coats. The stitching wasn’t a repair though, and was done to strengthen and add warmth when the garments were made. Frixion pens disappear with heat, but they don’t wash out. The lines will come back if the item gets cold. For denim, the kids’ wash out markers are better, which were also mentioned.

[@MsLouisVee]

Thank you. I’m patching jeans that don’t need patching.

[@zenstitching]

They'll be wonderful looking jeans with your visible mending, and it is great practice for when you do need to patch your jeans!

[@MsLouisVee]

@@zenstitching 😀😀😀

[@nedryerson2042]

Lol right?!? I was sitting here hoping I have a pair with even the slightest issue so I can get to work on them.

[@HannaARTzink]

Beautiful and dignified way of repairing fabric. Tks.

[@jorgesxbass7606]

Beautiful Sashiko, Little Cross in 2 colors Clap!!Clap Nice Job!!!

[@zenstitching]

Thank you! I hope you find the demonstration helpful.

[@nepenthe101]

Your videos are very informative. I appreciate you taking your time and explaining your process slowly (and smoothly). It’s very soothing.

[@katewardartist]

Thank you so much. Im so pleased to hear you enjoyed my video

[@kseniav586]

Thanks for the video! I recently found out about sashiko and wanted to give it a try. You explain and show the process very well, and your manner of speaking is so soothing and lovely.

[@katewardartist]

Thank you 💙 Im so glad you found my video helpful and I hope you enjoy the stitching process x

[@verdancyhime]

These are so pretty! It makes me wish I wore jeans.

[@zenstitching]

The wonderful thing is you can apply this technique to any fabric! It doesn't need to be denim 💙

[@junimondin]

Thank you for showing this process. 💖

[@CookbooksonRepeat]

Best tutorial I’ve found in this method. Thank you!

[@zenstitching]

Im delighted to hear that! Thank you for sharing x

[@niemodna]

I’m so eager now to try this! It’s so beautiful to see that jean so „worked”. Would you consider to use a stitching hoop?

[@katewardartist]

you could use a hoop, but traditionally sashiko is stitched without a hoop because of the way fabric is gathered onto the needle.

[@robertmcphillips6057]

Great video and tutorial, thank you very much!

[@katewardartist]

So glad you enjoyed it! And please tag me if you share your projects on social media (#zenstitching)

[@caraxkins]

Thanks so much for this!!!!! I always get ruinous holes in the crotch and inner thigh before I get any in more aesthetically pleasing spots, like the knees. One of my favorite pairs is getting a little thin, so I'll have this when I'm ready:)

[@zenstitching]

I completely agree! sometimes there are areas we dont wish to draw attention to!!

[@skonopik]

Safety pins RIGHT!? finally!! Someone gets it!

[@zenstitching]

Yes! So simple and so easy!! Its my kinda thing.

[@maryviti6799]

“someone” another woman, of course!👏 😉M🍀

[@MoPoppins]

21:28 - I bought a 3-thimble set from Daiso a while back, and I wasn’t sure which finger or where on the hand I was supposed to place the one that you’re using, so now I’m excited to try it out!

[@zenstitching]

Im so excited to hear that!

[@MoPoppins]

@@zenstitching I wasn’t sewing Sachiko-style, but I just finished shortening the straps on my tank tops, and used the needle-threading technique you mentioned in this video. OMG…can’t believe I never figured it out on my own, but IT TOTALLY WORKS!! I threaded two needles, and I swear it’s the EASIEST two I’ve ever done! Thank you so much for sharing this “obvious” tip !🪡 😀 👏

[@zenstitching]

Yay! Threading needles can be a frustrating experience, so Im delighted you have found an easier way @@MoPoppins

[@trentonjennings9105]

That is really neat. I didn't know about sashiko. I may try that instead of a knee patch next time, but I have always both ironed on and sewn my knee patches. Sashiko looks nice. It does remind me of a Bible verse - Mathew 9:16 "No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment, for that which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse."

[@zenstitching]

Im so glad to hear you have discovered sashiko and Im excited to hear you're going to try it!

[@НадеждаКравченко-я6у]

Благодарю.🌹Интересная техника вышивки.Завтра займусь таким рукоделием.

[@zenstitching]

Thank you! Send me some pics of your project when you have finished - Id love to see it.

[@gertrudyscanales9281]

Beautiful work! I learned that newer jeans have higher amount elastine making them less strong. I don’t have any worn out jeans but I’m looking to mend some linen pants.

[@zenstitching]

Thank you for your kind words. Its very true that newer jeans (particularly ladies styles) have more elastine in them - which makes them more comfortable to wear, but they definitely wear out quickly! Im delighted to hear you will be applying this mend to your linen pants. Please share some pics with me @zenstitching on Instagram x

[@kgaletin]

Great instructional video. Try quilting safety pins. They are curved and easier to use with thick fabric.

[@katewardartist]

Thanks for the tip! Ill definitely try them out x

[@desertrose2085]

Wonderful tutorial. Very informative. I was wondering why you didn’t cross your stitches, as in the earlier patch?

[@zenstitching]

the simple running stitch that isnt crossed is also a sashiko pattern known as yokogushi (horizontal rows). It is also an effective way of mending and strengthening the fabric

[@percynonez1163]

Beautiful !!!!

[@user-vi3sz3fg2r]

Beautiful, thank you.

[@gracefullyyours9990]

Hi great video. Easy to follow. But I am curious why you didn’t cut away the excess fabric inside?

[@zenstitching]

Most of it gets stitched with the reinforcement of the sashiko stitching. But, you can definitely cut away the excess if you prefer.

[@mgailqster]

This is exactly where my daughter wears out her jeans :) I loved watching your instruction, but not sure about the holes next to the seams in the crotch. Did your sewing catch those holes or is there more that has to be done, there? Thanks much!

[@zenstitching]

Thank you so much 😊yes, I always make sure my thread connects to the seam in the crotch to make it a really strong mend.

[@girlinagale]

I bought chalk pencils but they don't make a mark on denim so I'll get friction pens or washable, children's felt pens.

[@zenstitching]

Its always good to try different things, because you will find something that you enjoy working with. You could also try using a sliver of soap to mark dark denim.

[@robertmcphillips6057]

Where can I get the needle guard that's in your video for a man please?

[@katewardartist]

They are called a coin thimble, and you can purchase them from any Japanese embroidery store. Or, you can make your own, heres a link to my blog with instructions zenstitching.ca/blog/2020/5/15/how-to-make-a-sashiko-thimble

[@mvl6827]

Thank you. Until now I put jeans patches on the outside. I am wondering if those inside patches are uncomfortable and rubbing against the skin?

[@zenstitching]

You're most welcome 🥰 I dont find the inside patches uncomfortable at all, I dont even notice them!

[@thiamtiulim6469]

Hi I notice your hand have a material attached to palm and fingers, can share the purpose of this material and what kind of material is it?

[@Sleeplessinsimi]

All that fabric on the inside crotch area, isn’t that uncomfortable? Especially all the loose bits.

[@zenstitching]

No. They're not tight fitting jeans, so I dont notice it at all.

[@randalllaue4042]

At least tack it down...

[@Dorky-Corky]

I was thinking the same thing!! I have big ol' thunder thighs, so even loose jeans are tight enough on the thighs that I notice things like that. It would drive me nuts.

[@rochelleme83]

Does it feel comfortable to wear or is it itchy? I have a friend with sensory issues who would love a pair of their jeans reworked

[@zenstitching]

I would say it is comfortable - definitely not itchy. Just make sure you choose to reinforce the hole with a fabric of the same weight (thickness) as the garment and you'll hardly notice its there.

[@klarakrok]

Ecxellent always needed

[@katewardartist]

Thank you so much x

[@HandyMarcus]

Greetings! On a pair of selvedge denim, should I wash before doing the patch work? Same question for any fabrics I'd repair? I'm learning. Thank you, and I know this is 2 years old, hopefully you can answer. Thank you for this knowledge

[@zenstitching]

Hi! I always think its a good idea to wash fabric before you work with it. This way, if it is going to shrink, it will do this before you start your project. Theres nothing worse than spending a lot of time on something, only to have it shrink in the wash!

[@HandyMarcus]

@@zenstitching awesome, thank you, I'm new to all of this! I appreciate your response

[@randalllaue4042]

Thank you!

[@zenstitching]

Its a pleasure ☺

[@myinnermagpie]

Yes! Jeans that fit well but need TLC. Thanx.

[@zenstitching]

Its a pleasure! Im only too happy to prolong the life of a favourite pair of jeans :)

[@nadiaothman5718]

Why is the thread a lighter colour?

[@zenstitching]

Sashiko thread comes in many different colours. I like working with threads that contrast with the denim, which is why I am working with lighter colours. This also helps to make the stitch the focal point.

[@randalllaue4042]

Have the books, but needed to “See” how done...

[@eveny119]

I noticed you put your patches on the inside of the garment while it seems Boro always places patches on the outside. First is that true and second why.?

[@katewardartist]

Hi Eveny - it is personal preference as to whether you wish to put your patches inside or outside the garment. Boro when translated means 'rags' and so you will see bits of cloth stitched together to reinforce the fabric. The technique was developed due to necessity rather than aesthetics.

[@bettablue2660]

It’s my understanding is that the sashiko technique is that these stitches are to be used on working clothes in order to make them last longer.

[@zenstitching]

Yes, thats right 💙Traditionally sashiko evolved from necessity to make textiles last as long as possible, and I am carrying on that technique to make my jeans last as long as possible 😊

[@randalllaue4042]

Thimble?

[@BritInvLvr]

Im surprised at the amount of fabric inside the jeans.

[@zenstitching]

When fabrics start to get holes in them, it means that the surrounding fabric is also worn and more likely to fray. I have found a generous patch means less mending in the long run - as they say, a stitch in time saves 9 😊

[@randalllaue4042]

Don’t you “Feel” the extra bits while wearing...

[@roselinedugas4420]

Il

[@katewardartist]

❤️❤️❤️

[@chantalbourrut410]

The fact that your first shashiko mending needs to be mended again is not reassuring .

[@Zen-Stitching]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I understand how it might seem concerning at first glance, but needing to mend a sashiko repair again can actually be a natural part of the process, especially if the item is well-loved and frequently used. Sashiko is rooted in the tradition of extending the life of textiles, and sometimes that means adding new layers of stitching over time as the fabric continues to age. I see it as an opportunity to build on the original work, creating something even more unique and meaningful. If you’d like any tips for reinforcing your stitches or choosing fabrics to ensure durability, I’d be happy to help!

[@susanpwaitt]

Respectfully, I want to share that the string tied around your finger, meshed between multiple rings and sticking way out, I found to be very distracting to me as I attempted to concentrate on the valuable information you were gracious enough to share with your viewers. I mean no disrespect, just sharing my experience as a viewer.

[@susanpwaitt]

OH, I JUST FOUND OUT WHY YOUR FINGER WAS WRAPPED. APOLOGIES! I GET IT NOW.

[@zenstitching]

@@susanpwaitt Im glad you figured out that the ribbon is what I use to tie my Japanese coin thimble together. The thimble was created during covid and being resourceful I had to make use of what I had at home to make it!

[@ОльгаСмирнова-ш9ж]

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