Curated — #denim

Whether you’re darning a small or large hole, the basic concept is that you rebuild the missing fabric by anchoring new threads into the healthy material around the damage, laying down additional threads to recreate the structure. The ultimate goal is to make the mend feel like it truly belongs in the garment. The size of the hole will determine how much prep and how big the repair area needs to be, but the heart of the process is always the same — stitching new fabric right into the gap. Small holes (under 1cm/ ½ inch) can generally be quite easily...

[Image credit: Denim Hunters] If you’ve ever turned up the hem on a pair of jeans and noticed a series of looped threads forming a chain-like pattern on the inside, you were looking at a chain stitch — a classic detail with deep roots in denim history. Developed in the 19th century for industrial use, the chain stitch was widely adopted in denim manufacturing by the early 20th century, especially by companies like Levi Strauss & Co. It became a signature feature of vintage workwear, valued not just for its efficiency but for how it changed the way jeans behaved...

Selvedge denim holds a special place in the sewing world — and depending on who you ask, it’s either a rewarding classic or a frustrating challenge. On the surface, selvedge denim is known for its high quality. It’s woven on traditional shuttle looms, which produce a tightly finished edge — the “self-edge” or selvedge (spelled with a d in Australian English).   This edge prevents fraying and is often marked with a distinctive coloured line. For many sewists, that detail is more than just practical — it’s a sign of craftsmanship and authenticity.   Selvedge denim is typically narrower than...