How To Repair Ripped Denim Jeans: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ripped jeans may be trendy, but when that rip isn’t where you intended, or it’s getting bigger with every wear, it’s time to take matters into your own hands. Whether it’s a worn-out knee, a torn crotch, or an accidental snag, repairing ripped denim is easier than you think. Plus, it’s cheaper and more sustainable than buying new jeans every time something goes wrong, and you’ll be able to prolong the life of your favorite pair of jeans.

Here’s everything you need to know to fix your denim and keep your favorite jeans in rotation.

What You’ll Need:

• Needle and thread (preferably heavy-duty or denim thread)
• Scissors
• Iron-on denim patches or scrap denim
• Fabric glue (optional)
• Sewing pins or clips
• Sewing machine (optional, but faster and more durable)
• Iron

Method 1: The Quick Fix — Iron-On Patch

Perfect for casual jeans and small rips where you want durability but don’t feel like breaking out the needle.

Steps:

1. Trim the frayed edges around the rip so the patch sticks cleanly.
2. Cut your patch to be at least ½ inch larger than the hole on all sides.
3. Place the patch inside the jeans (under the rip) for a cleaner outside look.
4. Iron the patch in place using firm pressure and steam. Follow the patch instructions for time and heat settings.
5. Optional: Stitch around the edges for extra hold, especially if the jeans will go through frequent wash cycles.

Best for: Inner thigh tears, butt rips, and moderate knee holes.

This brief video tutorial from Nudie Jeans shows you how easy it is to reinforce and stitch your problem areas in no time:

Method 2: Hand-Stitched Darning

No sewing machine? No problem. This method takes a bit longer but gives a strong, visible-mending aesthetic.

Steps:

1. Thread your needle with strong thread that either matches or contrasts (your call).
2. Stitch across the rip horizontally, weaving in and out of the denim to form a zigzag or crisscross pattern.
3. Repeat vertically to create a woven patch over the hole.
4. Tie off the thread securely on the inside.

Best for: Small tears or seams, and a DIY look that says “I fixed it myself—and I’m proud of it.”

Method 3: Machine-Sewn Patch

If you want the repair to last—and you’ve got access to a sewing machine—this is the way to go.

Steps:

1. Cut a denim patch slightly larger than the tear.
2. Pin it in place on the inside of the jeans.
3. Sew a zigzag or straight stitch around and across the rip to secure it.
4. Go over it a few times in different directions for durability.
5. Trim excess fabric from the patch inside.

Best for: Larger rips or heavily worn areas that need reinforcement.

Bonus: Decorative Repairs

Who says repairs have to be boring?

• Use embroidery thread to sew a lightning bolt, star, or heart over the rip.
• Add fun fabric patches on the inside so the peek-through is colorful.
• Try visible mending using contrasting thread colors for a trendy look.

Aftercare Tips

• Wash jeans inside out to protect the repair.
• Air dry when possible—heat breaks down thread and glue faster.
• Spot-clean repaired areas when needed instead of full washes.

Final Thoughts

Ripped jeans don’t have to be the end of the line for your favorite denim. With just a few tools and a bit of time, you can extend their life—and maybe even make them look cooler than they did before. So the next time your jeans split at the seam or snag on something sharp, grab your patch kit instead of your credit card.