Well Worn: Visible mending for the clothes you love

by Skye Pennant

Well Worn is the perfect book both for stitching pros and for those who have never picked up a needle and thread before. The sustainable darning and sashiko techniques taught in this book fight against perfectionism as well as fast fashion.

Begin by getting to grips with core mending skills, with a handy introductory compendium of visible mending techniques. Then, move on to convenient garment-led chapters, from socks to jeans, and from knitwear to stretch fabric, each with a wide variety of ideas and advice for approaching whatever piece of clothing you wish to revive.

Whether you're interested in fostering a more sustainable lifestyle, saving money by avoiding fast fashion, or simply engaging with a new creative outlet, this book is an accessible introduction for anyone looking to explore visible mending and revolutionise their wardrobe.

Including advice for
- Jeans
- Jumpers & Knitwear
- Shirts
- T-Shirts
- Leggings
- Socks
- Jackets
- Delicate fabrics

Genres: Nonfiction, Crafts, Sewing, Fashion, Self Help

144 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 23, 2024

Reviews

[*ੈ✩‧₊˚Sassy Little Hippy˚₊‧✩ ੈ* · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.8 ⭐️
What a great book! I have a major soft spot for upcycling and reviving items.

🪡 The author does a good job of helping you navigate basic fabrics, needles, and various approaches to mending different types of clothes without a sewing machine.

📈 I love the chart included that gives recommendations based on clothing type - everything from socks to coats. She also offers step-by-step stitching tutorials with images.

🧵 The methods she covers are: patching, Sashiko (the Japanese art form of bringing new life to fabric, similar to Kintsugi), darning and more. These methods are such a unique statement of your own personality, but even more, they are charged with love. Taking the time to revive the old has so much beauty and heart.

💖 As a fan of buying 2nd hand, these methods will help expand my options as I can now feel confident in buying the more “loved” items and customizing them for myself. I’m excited to test some of these methods out!

Thanks to NetGalley, Chronicle Books, and Skye Pennant for providing me with a complimentary ARC to review!

[reading is my hustle · Rating 4 out of 5]

i bought this book after i was inspired by a friend who started darning her socks. i was so charmed by the bright colors & honeycone darning technique. i didn't have a darning mushroom at first but a plastic water bottle turned upside down works just fine. i practiced after consulting youtube but i learn better by reading & have since checked out many books on visible mending. i like much about this book: the simple writing style, the gentle instruction, and the combination of photographs & illustrations. this book is a great companion to skye pennant's insta, too.

[hope h. · Rating 5 out of 5]

definitely the best of the mending-compendium books i've read so far - a good background in sustainability and understanding of textiles, practical tutorials, solid general advice, and easy-to-understand tutorials on basic stitches and techniques. this one is a godsend and i am 100% going to be using it to figure out how to fix up the hole in the armpit of a cardigan i need to mend haha

[Kelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Well Worn” will make a great addition to your crafting bookshelf! Skye has given you all the tools to start mending your garments. In a world of fast fashion, this book will help you slow down and save your favorite pieces of clothing. Have a hole in your favorite leggings or puffer jacket? There is a repair to be made! The author shows you different techniques to apply to different items. They also discuss different fabrics and which mends would be most appropriate.

A lot of really good mending information to be found among the pages!

Many thanks to Chronicle Books and Princeton Architectural Press and NetGalley for the digital ARC.

[Mary Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic manual for all things mending 💕

[Lauren Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Great book with a lot of detailed instructions of ways to mend your own clothes and also add a unique touch to them while doing so.
Author walks you through it step by step with great guidance. Even someone who is not experienced in sewing would be able to follow this book.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really nice basic reference source for mending a variety of types of clothing. Steps are illustrated clearly and directions are detailed. More complex mends might benefit from videos or more color photos, but this will get most people started. Mending is an area of crafting where I’m happy to see new, attractive titles.

[Whitney Pergram · Rating 5 out of 5]

A BIG THANK YOU to Chronicle Books, Princeton Architectural Press, and NetGalley for the ARC of Well Worn: Visible Mending for the Clothes You Love by Skye Pennant. This is a comprehensive and inspiring guide to the art of visible mending, offering readers a fresh perspective on clothing repair and sustainability.

As the founder of Slow Stitch Club, Pennant brings her passion for textiles and craftsmanship to the forefront, guiding readers through traditional darning and Sashiko techniques with clarity and enthusiasm. Whether you're a seasoned sewist or a complete novice, this book provides the tools and inspiration needed to breathe new life into your well-loved garments.

Pennant encourages readers to view mending as a creative and therapeutic practice, offering practical advice alongside engaging anecdotes and historical insights. With step-by-step instructions and detailed illustrations, even those with limited sewing experience can confidently tackle a wide range of repairs, from patching jeans to darning socks. This book is not just about fixing clothes—it's about fostering a deeper connection to our wardrobes and embracing a more sustainable approach to fashion.

In addition to its practical guidance, Well Worn serves as a timely reminder of the importance of slow fashion and mindful consumption. Pennant's thoughtful approach encourages readers to rethink their relationship with clothing, emphasizing quality over quantity and the value of investing in pieces that will stand the test of time. Whether you're looking to save money, reduce waste, or simply explore a new creative outlet, this is a must-have resource for anyone interested in mending their own clothes and cultivating a more sustainable lifestyle, one stitch at a time.

I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 21 May 2024
#WellWorn #NetGalley

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

Well Worn is a philosophically written monograph on mending, enhancing, fixing, and extending the life of the clothing we have, written and with tutorials by Skye Pennant. Released 21st May 2024 by Princeton Architectural Press, it's 144 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats.

This is a practical guide, but additionally, the author educates about the negative impacts of the "fast fashion" industry in terms of resource use, exploitation and abuse of workers, and environmental impact. The book is logically laid out and written in layman accessible language which anyone can understand.

The introduction (roughly 1/3 of the content) includes background, a -solid- tutorial on notions and tools for repair, and a good triage discussion on what to repair, how to decide if it's worth it, and what to do with the pieces which don't get repaired. The author is practical and efficient and explains the how, what, where, and when of the process.

The other 2/3s of the book are given to specific tutorials (jeans, knitwear, shirts, t-shirts, leggings, socks, jackets, and delicate fabrics). The specific tutorials are very well illustrated with clear color photographs as well as line drawn illustrations.

This will be a fast favorite with readers who enjoy fibrearts, thrift/retro shoppers, marketplace and flea market bargain hunters, as well as making a good addition to the home sewist's library. It would also make an excellent acquisition for public or school library, maker's groups, and similar.

Five stars. Creative and worthwhile.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

[Hazel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book that captures a skill we all need to (re)-remember. I feel that this was lost somewhere during our parents' or grandparents' generation, by and large. This book will make you inspired to love your worn-out clothing in a new way. My only frustration was that I wanted the actual techniques to broken down even more step by step, with even more tips and explanation on exactly how to do them. Mending holes in knitted fabric by picking up the loops is DARN hard (see what I did there? ha ha). But it really is, and I was hoping that the author would have some tips on how to be more successful at it. I also wanted more specifics on every other process, even more of a tutorial. The big photos are certainly beautiful but it was a lot of space that could have been filled with line diagrams to help teach us how to become more expert. I also wanted a larger variety of techniques - this offered several good ones, but it wasn't a huge variety. I was hoping for more of an encyclopedia of techniques. Regardless, this is a topic usually overlooked and I understand that the publisher probably wanted to make sure the book wasn't overwhelming to the beginner. So I say - well done, and thank you for reminding us of this important skill!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a digital ARC for unbiased review.

[Anonymouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't do a lot of mending, but I quite liked this book for its straightforward practicality. The one other mending book I saw recently was more about the meditation of mending than the techniques of mending and it turned me off. Skye Pennant focuses on mending and leaves you to your own spiritual growth.

My favorite bit of this book is the table on page 12 that suggests which of the 10 mending techniques presented in the book are best for various mending projects. To repair damaged belt loops on jeans consider Sashiko, Machine mending, and Patching. Each of these techniques is explained later in the text, with examples.

Visible mending embraces two visual concepts. First is that it's OK for the mending to be seen and a repair can and should have a pleasing aesthetic. The second, and this goes a bit against more traditional mending instruction, is that it's OK for the raw edges of the teat remain visible. Thus jeans are patched with a fuzzy bit in the middle. It's an artistic thing that might not appeal to everyone in every situation but you can choose another technique if you want to cover up the hole instead.

I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com.

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a world drowning in eco damaging fast fashion, visible mending is a great way to keep your favorite garments still wearable. I was really excited when I saw this book because there aren't a lot of really good books on visible mending. This example demonstrates at least 10 different techniques and details specific examples of mending for each type of garment.

However, I was completely disgusted that the diagrams of the techniques in this book are _just too small_. I was looking at on a computer and even at 2x the illustrations were hard to figure out, which was rage inducing when they were paired with tons of white space and HUGE photos showing the final result. Another interesting note on this book: Pennant specifically leaves the raw edges visible in a lot of of her mending, which is a style choice, but not one that I would personally make.

I was seriously considering buying this book in paper, but given that I don't think I could actually use it for projects because the diagrams are too small, I'm going to pass.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook.
I was very excited to get this book. I was curious about what it was about. I love shopping at thrifts stores and I hardly ever buy new clothes. The only thing that I was not really into was the designs the author used on the clothes. To be honest I was not a fan of it. It looks like clothes that a hobo would wear instead of trying to make an embroidery piece for that spot etc it was just a bit let's say my style. I will say that the author shows very detailed instructions and drawings on how to fix a ripped sweater, which I thought was amazing. I will for sure go back and use these techniques.

[Kaitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

My knowledge of fixing my clothing has always needed improving. I would usually just make it up as I went along and my fixes always end up looking wonky. Well Worn was really helpful in understanding what kind of fabric requires what kind of fixes and the appropriate needle to use. I also had no idea how to do darning and this book did a good job showing how to do it. All of the instructions were clearly written out and had pictures demonstrating how to do it. I found the pictures extremely helpful. This is definitely a book to pick up if you are looking for help to get more life out of your clothes.

[Jennifer T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not a seamstress, I made a pair of gym shorts in Home Ec class in middle school but that’s it. I requested this book from NetGalley because I thought it might offer basic tasks such as fixing a button, etc however the stitching included is way more involved and detailed than I can manage. But that’s my fault not this book. If you have a basic sewing knowledge then this book is extremely well done and chock full of techniques, illustrations, and photos to help you save your favorite clothes and other items from the trash heap. However if you need basic sewing knowledge look elsewhere.

Thanks to the author and publisher for the e-arc I received from NetGalley.

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a great feeling to repair a well loved article of clothing rather than throw it away. I had been looking for instructions on clothing repair since one of my favorite pairs of jeans developed a rip along the back pocket. This book addressed that exact repair along with many other instances of clothing damage I have encountered over the years. The author obviously knows what clothing damage is most common and addressed the repair of these in practical and unique methods. I learned a lot from this book. I’m now going to fix those comfy jeans and hopefully get many more years of wear out of them!

[So (Much) for Media · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well Worn: Visible Mending for the Clothes You Love is an instructional book on how to mend your clothes in a way that is visible, and creative. I'm trying to be more conscious of my consumption, and I loved reading about a creative way to increase the longevity of clothing. I actually stopped halfway through to mend a large hole in my jeans with a colorful patch of my own creation, and I really enjoyed the process, and the results. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in mending clothes.

Thanks to netgalley for the earc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[(a)lyss(a) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is a helpful book!

It includes information on mending clothes from jeans to shirts and other items. The book includes instructions on various stitches as well as pictures on how to make them. It shows various ways to mend different clothing items and to do so cutely. It also talks about the importance of mending items to keep them out of landfills. A great find for those wanting to make their wardrobe last longer.

[Cheyenne · Rating 5 out of 5]

5.0/5.0 ⭐

Diving into embroidery and garment sewing over the past few years has sparked my interest in visible mending, making "Well Worn" a perfect discovery.

This delightful book strikes a balance between comprehensive knowledge and approachability, catering to both beginners and seasoned stitchers. I particularly loved the helpful chart detailing common clothing issues and compatible repair methods. The layout and photos are outstanding.

Huge thanks to Chronicle Books, Princeton Architectural Press, and NetGalley for providing this advanced copy!

[tinypinkfangirlrobots · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the new trend to sustainability in fashion right now. This book gave some easy tips and tricks on how to do visible mending that works with the style and type of clothing you are trying to mend.

I think it would be a great hobby book or a gift for someone in your life who is looking to relearn some time-old skills. It is a super basic look at what tools and technique you might need to know to get started.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Alicia Bayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great guide for mending clothes intentionally. I love doing this sort of thing and keep looking for my perfect book. This is a great addition with lots of detailed instructions and photos. I would have liked some examples of other styles of clothing and mending but it’s a fantastic resource.

I read a temporary digital copy of this book for review.

[Joanie Whittemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t wait to use these mending techniques on mine and my loved one’s clothes! The attention given to different fabrics, techniques as well as which technique works best for each fabric type, and the tools needed to accomplish the repair. The directions are pretty easy to follow, coming form someone who is VERY crafty!

[Heather Sturgill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book looks at the importance of repairing or mending damaged clothing, rather than throwing still-usable pieces away. Skye Pennant provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for beautiful mending that is designed to be seen. The book is easy to read and has lots of helpful hints to ensure success. A valuable addition to any sustainable household.

[Tracy Rider · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great for solid foundation

I liked the in depth instructions for different types of fabric as well as the tools needed. It isn't just a gallery of work, it teaches you the craft. Having said that, don't expect a lot of creative idea photos of ways to decorate with mending, which might be implied by "visible mending."

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great instructions, even for someone new to sewing. I hate having to get rid of clothes just because of a small hole and this book makes it seem like anyone can do their own mending. Good book for anyone looking to expand their crafting skills that learn something that can be useful day to day.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been searching for a book just like this. It has so much useful information to help start and continue the journey of mending clothing and keeping your wardrobe looking great!

[ChillCassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful inspiring book with easy to read instructions. I can’t wait to try these for my own projects!

[Andi Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good info but needed better photos/ illustrations imho.

[ツツ]

I'm interested in this topic, but I don't think I could learn a whole new skill like darning just from word description and a few pictures.

[Syntaxx · Rating 3 out of 5]

reading this taught me about SASHIKO