How to repair a damaged jacket or coat: Our advice

Do you have a hole or tear in your jacket or coat? Replacing your garment is not the only solution. A damaged jacket can be restored to its former elegance and sturdiness through careful, expert repairs.
At TILLI, our skilled makers know how to bring these winter pieces back to life, whether filling a small hole, restoring a seam or reinforcing a worn fabric. This choice to repair rather than replace is not only practical; it's also economical and environmentally friendly, especially with the Repair Bonus. Find out in this article how our TILLI makers transform your damaged jackets and coats into pieces ready for a new season.

Why repair your coat rather than replace it?

There are many advantages to repairing a coat or jacket, not least of which is preserving a garment you already enjoy. A well-fitting coat, made from quality materials, is often difficult to replace, and its cut may not match the models available in stores. Repairing your favorite garment means keeping it for longer, while preserving its comfort and style.
What's more, repairing instead of replacing is an eco-responsible choice. The textile industry is one of the most polluting sectors, and extending the life of your clothes helps to reduce waste and limit ecological impact.
The Repair Bonus makes this approach more accessible. This scheme, set up to encourage garment repair, offers a discount on the cost of repairs, making this a more economical and responsible choice.

TILLI makers repair your jackets and coats
Source:TILLI

Repair Techniques for Pits, Rips and Tears in Jackets and Coats

Depending on the material and location of the damage, repair techniques vary to ensure a solid yet discreet result.
For small holes and snags, our makers use an invisible mending method. This technique stitches the fibers tightly and precisely, using threads that match the fabric. It closes the fabric without adding extra thickness, leaving a discreet finish that blends into the texture of the coat or jacket. This type of repair is particularly recommended for fabrics such as wool, cashmere or synthetic fiber blends, which lend themselves well to invisible mending.

In the case of larger rips / tears or tears in areas of tension, such as shoulders, seams or cuffs, reinforcement may be necessary. At TILLI, our makers place a support fabric inside the coat to reinforce the damaged area. This fabric is carefully selected for its strength and ability to blend with the rest of the piece. This technique is ideal for coats made from thick fabrics, such as wool coats or parkas, where strength is essential. This inner reinforcement ensures enhanced durability while respecting the garment's aesthetic appeal.

Rips and tears along the seams can be repaired by repeating the original seam lines. This is often the case at sleeve edges, at the belt or along zippers, where the fabric may be subjected to repeated stress. Our makers sew the damaged area back together, following the original seam lines to ensure a harmonious finishing with the rest of the garment. This method is ideal for suit jackets or well-structured coats, as it restores the piece while respecting the original cut.

Finally, for more casual coats or those made from water-repellent materials such as down jackets and technical jackets, our makers can apply iron-on or sewn-on patches to hide rips / tears. Patches are chosen to match the color and texture of the jacket, and can even be customized to add a touch of originality. This technique restores the damaged area while reinforcing the fabric, particularly in areas exposed to friction such as elbows or pockets.

Why choose TILLI to repair your coat or jacket?

When you entrust the repair of your jacket or coat to TILLI, you choose a quality service provided by expert textile makers. Our sewists are trained in specific techniques for working with winter fabrics, whether wool, polyester or technical materials. Each repair is carried out with care to guarantee a result that is both durable and aesthetically coherent with the rest of the garment. We work with quality yarns and materials, selected to suit the characteristics of each coat. When you choose TILLI, you're opting for craftsmanship that enhances every detail of your piece, while keeping your winter garments in top condition.
Thanks to the Repair Bonus, TILLI also offers you discounts on the cost of your repairs. This program facilitates access to quality services, while encouraging more responsible consumption. As Refashion-labeled repairers, we apply this aid directly to reduce your costs and make repairs even more accessible.

How to Care for Your Coat or Jacket After a Repair

Once your jacket or coat has been repaired, it's essential to follow a few simple care instructions to preserve its condition. For wool or cashmere coats, prefer dry cleaning to prevent the fibers from becoming brittle. Wash technical jackets and parkas according to the manufacturer's instructions, often at low temperatures to preserve the fabric's water-repellent and insulating properties. Drying should always be done in the open air, avoiding direct heat sources such as radiators, which can deform the structure of the coat.
When storing, be sure to hang your jackets and coats on suitable hangers to maintain their shape. Avoid compressing them into tight spaces, especially thick pieces, as this can cause wrinkling or weaken the fibers. Finally, inspect your coat regularly for signs of wear and tear. Taking action at the first sign of damage will help limit future repairs and maintain the appearance of your jacket or coat.

Repairing holes, snags and rips on your jackets and coats is a practical and cost-effective way to extend the life of your winter garments. By entrusting the restoration of your garments to TILLI, you are choosing a professional and personalized service, carried out by skilled makers with an eye for detail. Thanks to the Repair Bonus, you also benefit from advantageous rates, making repairs even more affordable.
Don't let minor damage fester over time. Entrust your jackets and coats to the experts at TILLI for a tailor-made repair that will guarantee their durability and good looks. For more information or to get a quote, visit tilli.fr and discover how our makers can help you extend the life of your winter garments with complete peace of mind.

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