A rip or tear does not mean the end of your comforter, even if it is in a highly conspicuous place. Few want to throw out a comforter that is still useful, especially if it is expensive or has sentimental value. Either way, you can repair small tears and prevent further damage by employing one or more creative repair techniques.
There are several ways to repair a tear on the underside of a comforter. Since the underside does not show, you do not have to be an expert seamstress to repair small rips and holes. The easiest repair method is to use an iron-on patch. Choose a patch that is the same shade as the covering. Cut the patch so that it slightly overlaps the area that needs to be repaired. Iron the patch in place according to the manufacturer’s directions. For delicate fabrics, use the lowest heat setting on the iron as possible and a cheesecloth to protect the comforter fabric during the application process. You can find iron-on patches at any brick-and-mortar craft store or online.
The most straightforward method for repairing the tear involves using a needle and matching thread. Turn the edges of the tear under slightly before sewing them together. For a mini tutorial on sewing visit www.sewing.org. This site will explain stitch types and provides a visual representation of hand sewn stitches (See Reference 1). You can add more stability to the frayed edges by brushing them lightly with a liquid seam sealant before turning them under and sewing them together. You can purchase seam sealants at most fabric stores.
Use fabric glue if you cannot find the liquid seam sealant. Hold one torn edge away from the comforter and apply a thin coat of fabric glue to the torn edge. Use a blow dryer to speed the drying process. Repeat this procedure for the other torn edges. When the edges are dry, turn them in slightly and sew together with needle and thread.
Tears on the face side of the comforter require more finesse in the repair process. If the tear is on a side that is not very visible, use liquid seam sealant and the needle and thread repair method described above. If the tear is in a highly visible part of the comforter, try using invisible thread for the repair. Use cheesecloth and an iron on a low setting to smooth the edges of the repair.
If the comforter is one you are unwilling to part with, and sewing will mar its appearance, try using iron-on appliques to mask the repair. Appliques come in many sizes, colors and styles. Choose a style that accommodates the placement of several appliques on the cover. Avoid placing just one over the tear as this will draw attention to the repair. Choose a layout pattern that compliments the style of the comforter. For example, you might choose lace appliques for fancier comforters. Iron-on appliques can be expensive. To cut down on the expense, choose the widest layout pattern possible. Treat torn edges and sew together before ironing the applique over the repair.