Embroidery Repair
with
Seljak Brand
In this workshop Seljak Brand demonstrates how to create a double-sided patch to enclose rips, holes, or stains. We’ll use an applique blanket stitch technique to secure the patch.
Materials
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Extra fabric for the patch, something similar in weight and texture to what you’re repairing will be easier, more durable and more comfortable for use
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Thick sewing thread, like a four-ply embroidery yarn
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Embroidery needle
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Measuring tape
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Fabric scissors
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Pins
METHOD
Repair with a Double-Sided Patch
Save your blanket from landfill and add a cute new design feature.
"Part of what we do at Seljak Brand is find ways to extend the life cycle of textiles before recycling them at the end of life. It’s important to reuse and repair where possible."
-Karina Seljak
Measure the patchable area
Work out how big the patch needs to be and give an extra 1.5cm to provide room for the stitches that will go around the patch. Use an even surface to lay out the blanket to ensure your measurements are accurate.
Cut and pin the fabric
Cut two pieces of fabric the same size for each side of the blanket. If you have fabric marking chalk you can use that, or mark the line with pins. Pin one to each side of the blanket lining them up as precisely as you can.
Blanket stitch the patch
Use blanket stitch to attach the fabric to the blanket, using the appliqué blanket stitch technique. You can do 1cm between each stitch and from the edge, or a width you prefer. Remember you’ll be stitching a patch simultaneously on the other side of the blanket! Make sure you check the back patch for each stitch, that it’s square to the last and to the edge of the patch. This is time consuming but worth getting right for a neat end product.
TIP Careful at the corners - It’s worth doing an extra stitch to create a solid corner, creating a triangular-looking stitch.
Tie a hidden knot to finish
After you’ve sewn the full way around the patch, create a hidden ‘knot’ by stitching the blanket carefully in the same place underneath your final stitch 3 to 4 times and cut the thread. And voila! That’s your patch complete.
Remember, you can use this same technique on clothing and other home textiles, using a one or two-sided patch!
Add in additional colours
Following the first shape, stitch into the negative space.
Stitch into the negative space created by each stitch and in up to 1/2cm to add a kind of shadow, or highlight depending on the colour you choose, to your work. This will also strengthen your repair.
Create a hidden 'knot'
After you’ve finished your stitching, create a hidden ‘knot’ by stitching the blanket carefully in the same place underneath your final stitch 3 to 4 times and cut the thread.
And voila! That’s your embroidery complete.
TIP You can use this same technique on clothing and other home textiles, using a one- or two-sided patch.