A school trouser hem has come down, a knee has worn through or a jumper has caught on something. Find a repair that suits the fabric and the way the uniform is worn.
Choose the repair by what you see
A hem is hanging down
If the fabric and its old fold are intact, follow the original fold and reattach it. Compare it with the other leg before sewing.
A knee has worn through
Look beyond the hole. If the surrounding fabric has thinned, a patch needs to reach sound cloth so the stitches have something to hold.
A seam has opened
Turn the garment inside out. If only the thread broke and the seam allowance is sound, sew along the original seam line. Torn fabric needs a different repair.
A second-hand uniform needs a check
Check the school’s current uniform list, then look at the hems, knees, fastenings and name labels before deciding what work it needs.
Before you pick up a needle
Check the care label and the school’s uniform guidance. Start with the smallest repair that restores the fit or function. Give a lined blazer, a broken zip or fabric that tears when handled to an alterations service.
For local examples, see The Hills Shire Council’s clothing repair resources and Middle Park Primary School’s second-hand uniform stall.