Darning a sock for the first time
Short answer: A hole in a sock does not mean it has to be thrown away. Darning is an old and simple technique where you weave new threads across the hole, and it is easier to learn than many people think.
When darning makes sense
Darning works best on small and medium holes at the heel or toes, and on areas where the fabric has worn thin but not yet broken. It is actually easier to darn a thin patch before it turns into a hole. If the sock is worn thin all over, it may be better used as a cleaning cloth. Wool and thick knitted socks are the easiest to darn, but soft socks in blended yarn can be darned too.
What you need
You need a darning needle, which is a needle with a large eye and a blunt tip, darning wool or fine knitting yarn, and scissors. A darning mushroom, a mushroom shaped piece of wood, makes it easier to keep the sock stretched out. A light bulb, a small ball or an orange can be used instead. Choose yarn in the same colour for a discreet repair, or a contrasting colour if you like it to show.
How to darn
Put the darning mushroom inside the sock beneath the hole so the fabric lies smooth. Start a little way outside the hole, where the fabric is still intact. Sew vertical threads close together across the hole and into the sound fabric on both sides. Then turn and weave horizontal threads over and under the vertical ones, as if making a tiny piece of weaving. Do not pull too tight, or the sock will pucker.
Finish and try the sock on
When the hole is covered, secure the yarn with a few stitches into the sound fabric on the inside and trim the end. Put the sock on and feel whether the darn presses anywhere. A good darn lies flat and feels soft. If it is too thick it can rub inside your shoe, so use finer yarn next time. With practice your darns will become neater and flatter.
Preventing holes
Trim your toenails regularly, and rotate between several pairs of socks so they do not all wear out at once. Wash socks inside out and dry them on a line, as high heat wears out the elastic. Shoes that fit well cause less friction at the heel. Soft fabrics with good stretch often last longer when they are looked after. Have a look at bamboo trousers for women and bamboo T-shirt dresses for other soft pieces that benefit from a gentle wash.
A tradition worth picking up
Darning was once an ordinary part of running a household, and many people are taking it up again because it is calming and gives clothes a longer life. A visible darn in a contrasting colour has become a small personal signature for some. The brand Copenhagen Bamboo is one example of a label with soft basics, and the care label helps you keep them in good condition.
Frequently asked questions
What is a darning mushroom
A mushroom shaped piece of wood that holds the fabric taut. A light bulb or small ball works too.
Can every sock be darned
Most can. Wool and thick socks are easiest, but soft socks in blended yarn can be darned too.
Why does my darn press on my foot
The yarn may be too thick or the threads pulled too tight. Use finer yarn.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
