Fixing a torn sofa
Materials:
- Seam sealant
- Curved needle
- Nylon Thread
Warning: any repairs done are at your own responsibility. See terms of use.
Study the rip
Start checking the scratch in your couch’s fabric. Study its length, whether it has frayed edges, etc. This information will help you in all future steps!
Use seam sealant
This product which looks like glue will prevent the ripped fabric of your couch from fraying more and will secure the frayed edges. Amazon is a great place to get it! Some famous brands of sean sealer are Kampa Seam Sealer, McNett Seamgrip, Coghlan’s Seam Seal or Seam Grip. I’m sure you can also find them at your closest hardware store.
Just fold the edges of the tear under and then press the folds down firmly with your fingers. It’s important to fold the frayed part under as far as possible because sewing too near a frayed edge can cause more damage later.
For this step you’ll need strong nylon thread and a curved needle. The nylon is less likely to rip because it’s a stronger textile compared to regular thread and the curved needle will allow you to sew easily on a flat surface. These are also known as mattress needles or upholstery needles should you be looking to buy them online.
Sew the rip
Continue pinching the edges of the fabric together with your fingers. Slide the needle through the edge of the tear and pull the thread all the way through to make a stitch.
Weave the needle in and out along the tear to make small, tight stitches. Remember to keep the edges of the tear folded under as you sew and just continue sewing along the edges until you reach the end of the tear.
On your last stitch, pull the thread through until there’s a loop. Then, pass the needle through this loop twice and pull this knot tight, and then take a few tiny stitches back along the seam line, stitching away from the knot.
Finally, cut the end of the thread close to the fabric and you’re done!