How to Hide a Split in a Skirt Without Sewing

A favorite skirt is worth repairing rather than throwing away.

When a garment rips along a seam, sewing it up isn't always an option. Perhaps there isn't a sewing machine available, or maybe you don't have the time or inclination to hand-stitch the tear. Luckily there are products on the market that allow you to repair a split without needing to stitch it with a needle and thread. Mending a split seam with fusible webbing tape or fabric glue is quick and simple enough for anyone to do, and when done correctly the repair is as secure and invisible as stitching.

Things You'll Need

• Fusible webbing tape or fabric glue
• Iron
• Ironing board
• Brown paper bag
• Pins or binder clips

Instructions

Fusible Webbing Tape

1. Wash the skirt, if possible. If the skirt can't be washed, use a slightly damp sponge to clean the area around the split and hang it dry.

2. Turn the skirt inside-out and lay it on an ironing board. Rip open a brown paper bag and lay one piece under the split section of seam.

3. Cut a piece of fusible webbing tape an inch longer than the split and center it over the split. Set another piece of brown paper over the top of the webbing tape, being careful not to shift it from its position over the split.

4. Set your iron to the "Wool" setting and press it on the brown paper for 10 seconds. Do not move the iron during that time. If your iron doesn't have a "Wool" setting, use "Medium" heat, no steam.

5. Allow the skirt to cool before testing the repair. If necessary, press again to reinforce the bond.

Fabric Glue

1. Wash the skirt, if possible. If the skirt can't be washed, use a slightly damp sponge to clean the area around the split and hang it dry.

2. Apply a few drops of fabric glue along the length of the split seam and pinch the sides together.

3. Secure the glued split with pins or binder clips and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours before testing the repair. If necessary, repeat Steps 2 and 3 to strengthen the bond.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow the instructions on your fusible webbing tape or fabric glue for washing, as some products break down in hot water or tumble drying.

References

• Prym Consumer Products: Dritz Stitch Witchery
• I Love to Create: How to Use Aleene's OK-to-Wash Fabric Glue

Resources

• Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores
• Hancock Fabrics
• Michaels