How do I repair a hole or tear in my coat?

Why repair a hole or tear in a coat?

Coats are exposed to a great deal of friction which, over time, can wear away the fabric or create holes and tears. A snag or everyday wear and tear can quickly turn into a major problem if nothing is done. Here's why repair is a sensible option:
- Extend the life of the coat: Repairing avoids the need to replace an expensive garment, while restoring it to a pristine appearance.
- Economical and eco-responsible: Repairing a coat rather than buying a new one saves you money while reducing your ecological footprint.
- Preserving a quality garment: Some coats have a special value, whether because of their quality, their cut or a sentimental attachment. Careful repair helps preserve this asset while eliminating visible flaws.

Types of coat repairs at TILLI

At TILLI, we offer several techniques for effectively repairing holes and tears in your coats, depending on the material and the severity of the damage:

Invisible repair for small holes and tears.
For small holes and light tears, our Makers use invisible sewing techniques that restore the fabric without leaving visible marks. This preserves the aesthetics of the coat while ensuring its strength.
Example: A small hole in a wool coat can be closed with an invisible stitch, making the repair virtually undetectable.

Patching or patching for large tears.
If the tear is too large to close invisibly, our Makers can apply a discreet patch or piece to reinforce the damaged area. We select matching or contrasting fabrics according to your preference, to maintain the harmony of the coat.
Example: On a cotton coat, a large tear on the sleeve can be covered by a patch in the same colour fabric, or a contrasting yoke for an aesthetic effect.

Reinforcing fragile areas to prevent further tears
After repairing a hole or tear, it can be a good idea to reinforce certain areas of the coat, such as elbows, pockets or shoulders, which are often subject to high levels of stress. This will help prevent further damage.
Example: Reinforce the elbows of a wool coat with leather or thick fabric inserts to prevent future wear and tear.

Changing the collar
The collar of a coat is often subject to rapid wear and tear, particularly from rubbing and exposure to the elements. Our Makers can replace a worn collar with a similar fabric to maintain the coat's original look, or offer you the option of choosing a collar in a different colour or even in a contrasting material, such as leather or velvet, to add a unique touch.
Example: On a woollen coat, replacing a worn woollen collar with a leather collar can add a modern touch while enhancing the durability of the piece.

Repairing loose pocket bottoms
Coat pocket bottoms are often put to the test by putting objects in them or simply by regularly slipping your hands into them. It is therefore common for pockets to become unstitched or torn over time. Our Makers repair pocket bottoms to ensure they remain sturdy while maintaining the coat's overall appearance.

Repairing loose buttons
The buttons on a coat come under a lot of pressure and are often handled several times a day, which can cause them to come off over time. We can sew up the buttons that have fallen off or, if necessary, replace them with similar models, ensuring that they are securely fastened to guarantee long-lasting use.

The repair process at TILLI

1. Personalised consultation: Our Makers start by assessing the condition of your coat and discussing the most suitable repair solution with you. Whether you want an invisible repair or a visible patch, we'll advise you on the best options.

2. Made-to-measure repair: After validation, our Makers move on to the repair, making sure to use the appropriate techniques and materials for each type of fabric, to ensure a neat and long-lasting finish.

3. Finishing and quality control: Each repair is meticulously inspected to ensure optimum durability and aesthetic appeal. We ensure that your coat regains its full functionality without compromising its style.

The benefits of repairs at TILLI

Calling on TILLI to repair your coat means you benefit from:
A craftsman's know-how:Our Makers are trained to work on all types of fabric and guarantee high-quality repairs, with attention to detail.
An eco-responsible approach: By choosing to repair rather than replace, you are helping to reduce textile waste while extending the life of your garments.
A personalised service:Each coat is unique, and our Makers adapt their techniques according to your expectations and the specifics of the garment.

Repairing a hole or tear in your coat is much more than a simple maintenance operation: it's an intelligent and eco-responsible approach that extends the life of your clothes while preserving their value. When you call on TILLI, you benefit from the expertise of our Makers for meticulous, long-lasting repairs, from small, invisible alterations to more extensive alterations. Preserve the aesthetics and functionality of your coat thanks to our made-to-measure expertise.