How to Repair Moth Holes in Worsted Wool
Moths are notorious for eating natural fibers. Clothing, linen and furniture made with textiles such as cotton and wool are prime targets for these hungry insects. Worsted wool in particular is susceptible to moth damage and the holes caused by moths can ruin an otherwise beautiful garment. However, there is a solution. Although items with major damage may require hours of reconstruction by professionals, smaller holes can be repaired simply at home. Once the repair is finished, the damaged area blends in with the rest of the wool, making them virtually invisible.
Things You'll Need
- Sewing needle
- Thread that matches the damaged item
- Scissors
- Fabric glue
- Toothpick
Instructions
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Send the damaged worsted wool item to the dry cleaners and have it professionally cleaned before attempting any repairs. This kills any moth larvae left on the item and keeps it from being infested after the repairs are finished. Never throw wool items into the washing machine and dryer. Wool shrinks and looses it's shape when washed in water.
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Turn the wool item so the inside is showing. If the hole is small, find a color of thread that matches the fabric. If there isn't an exact match get a slightly darker color. Light colors show up worse on fabric repairs than dark colors. Thread the needle and tie a knot in the end of the thread furthest from the needle.
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Slide the needle into the fabric and pull it almost all the way through the fabric. Slip the needle into the end of the thread between the fabric and the needle. Pull the needle the rest of the way through the fabric. This locks the thread into the fabric.
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Sew the hole from the back of the fabric. If the fabric has a design, make sure you keep the parts of the design together. Nothing shows up worse than a stripe that suddenly turns to the side. Sew from top to bottom of the hole first and then sew from side to side. Once the hole is sewn together. Turn the fabric right side out and inspect the hole.
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Repair tiny pin holes in worsted wool fabric by scraping a little bit of fabric from an unexposed portion of the damaged item. Put a dot of fabric glue onto the damaged area and fill the hole with the wool fibers using a toothpick. Let the glued fibers dry thoroughly. After the glue dries, add more glue and fibers to the area, if needed.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep moths from getting into your clothing or linen by brushing regularly with a soft bristled brush. Store your clean clothing and linen in sealed container. Never store dirty clothing because it attracts insects.
References
- Photo Credit David De Lossy/Valueline/Getty Images
