Practical sock mending with tools you already own

Darn a Small Hole in Wool Socks: Six Steps Before Replacing Them

A small heel or toe hole does not always mean a wool sock is beyond repair. Darning can fill missing cloth with an interwoven patch instead of pulling the edges together. Follow an original sewing demonstration and the wool-care guide, but consider replacement when the surrounding fabric is extensively thin.

4 min read2026-10-23

Kirby Allison's sock darning tutorial with a darning egg and needle

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01

What you need

Clean, dry sock with a small repairable hole
Needle and yarn or thread of a suitable thickness
Smooth darning egg, darning mushroom or small round ball
Small scissors and a well-lit working surface

02

How to

1. Check the hole and surrounding fabric. A small hole in otherwise sound cloth can be repaired, but extensive thinning across the sole or multiple tears may make replacement more practical.
2. Put a smooth darning egg or ball inside the sock, positioning the hole on top. Support the fabric without pulling it taut, then thread your needle with a similar-weight yarn.
3. Anchor the thread with a few small running stitches in sturdy material just outside the weakened edge. Avoid tugging so firmly that the hole grows.
4. Run several parallel threads across the opening, leaving enough give for the sock to stretch. These threads provide the first direction of the woven patch.
5. Turn the sock and weave new stitches perpendicular to the first threads, alternately passing over and under them. Fill the gap without creating a hard lump under the foot.
6. Secure the thread on the inside and trim the excess. Remove the support, try the sock on and walk a little; if the repaired area rubs or presses, adjust it or choose a replacement.

One more tip

Handle the needle carefully and avoid pulling stitches too tight. The video shows a general sock-mending technique, so adjust yarn weight and stretch to the wool sock. Stop wearing it if a bulky patch rubs your foot.

03

Photos, videos, and links

OriginalWoolmark's official wool-sock darning steps and materialsWoolmark — How to Repair Wool

OriginaliFixit illustrated darning steps and cautionsiFixit — How to Darn a Sock

OriginalPatagonia Korea's Worn Wear sock-repair tutorial sectionPatagonia Korea — Worn Wear Sock Repair

Sources and media

K-fashion · winter fleece care · November 20268 min

Two KOLON SPORT FW26 Fleeces, Two Care Labels: Six Practical Checks

A Korean outdoor label's wool-blend hooded fleece and colorblock stand-collar jacket need different care. Compare verified fabric compositions, everyday styling and wash instructions before choosing.