Has a rogue pair of scissors sliced a nice gash through a needlepoint canvas tucked into your work bag? Or maybe your scroll frame and stand tipped over, landing smack into the corner of the coffee table creating a 2-inch hole. Perhaps a firm tug on a stuck length of yarn breaks the threads in your canvas?…No need to worry, my stitching friends – I have created a Canvas Repair Tutorial to help you fix your next boo-boo.
Other than the approach I explain here, there are a few other ways to mend canvas, but this method performs the best by far and results in a sturdy patch that can withstand use.
This mending method works on both little holes like the one pictured and big holes or slashes in a canvas.
To begin repairing a hole, clean it up by clipping any canvas threads that are hanging out.
Then, for a repair, cut a piece of identical canvas slightly bigger than the hole. The patch should extend at least three intersections beyond the original hole. I dyed my patch black to make it more visible in the shot.
Align the canvas threads in the patch with the canvas, then baste the patch to the incorrect (rear) side of the hole using sewing thread or a tiny dab of adhesive (let the glue dry thoroughly before continuing with the repair). Smaller patches can be kept in place with your finger on the canvas’s underside.
Continue sewing as if the patch didn’t exist, stitching through the second layer of canvas around the patch’s edges.
Fill the vacant region with stitches all around the severed thread, allowing half an inch of clear space if using mono canvas. Remove the severed thread from the foundation and poke it into the canvas’s back. Weave the ends of your stitches in and out. Fill up the space with stitches to complete the look.
Here is a video tutorial for repairing a hole –
How can one mend old needlepoint which is splitting on a chair seat?
I have an old plastic canvas that’s starting to crack. It was made by my 26+ year long deceased mother, and I’d like to repair it, as it holds much sentimental value. The “tutorial” is no longer a valid link. How can I fix it? I know nothing about this craft.