If pesky t-shirt holes have you browsing the racks for replacements, try a DIY fix instead. It might be tempting to toss a garment showing signs of wear and tear, but throwing away old clothes—and then purchasing new ones—takes a serious toll on the environment. 

Textile waste is a growing problem for the planet, and every measure taken to reduce waste and overconsumption is a step in the right direction. Mending or repurposing old clothes is a great way to reduce this waste, as well as minimize the environmental impacts that occur after disposal (like harmful emissions from decomposition).

The best thing about this quick sewing hack is that you don’t need to be a pro crafter to do it. While it does require a little sewing, anyone can manage—even if you’ve never had a needle and thread in your hand.

Ready to get started? Follow the instructions below and you’ll be guided through how to fix holes in shirts, step by step.

Needle Thread (similar color to your shirt)

2. Unravel about 24 inches of thread. Cut it with a sharp pair of scissors, then put the end of the thread you just cut through the eye of the needle. (Sometimes wetting it helps!)

3. Bring the ends of the string together. Tie a knot at the end. (Video here.)

4. Start at the right side of the hole in your shirt. Put the needle through a few strands, as shown in the video above, and pull the thread through. This anchors the knot in place.

5. Grab a few strands on the opposite side and gently pull through. Continue going side to side, closing the hole in the process.

6. Once you reach the left side and the hole is closed, finish by securing a knot.

7. When you flip your shirt around and put it on, you’ll find the repair is barely noticeable.

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