The Cleaners

Garment care tips

Covering or disguising stains and tears

We’ve all lost a favorite garment to stains or tears and it’s disappointing to say the least. However, if the stain or tear cannot be removed or repaired, and you are open to alternative solutions, then think about covering or disguising the affected area.

Question

If you’ve tried all the safe and customary approaches, then what choices do you have when nothing else works?

Answer

Your drycleaner can try using extreme chemicals on a stain — even against their better judgment — but in most cases, there will be color loss, texture change, shrinkage, or complete disaster. For permanent stains and tears, think redesign.

• Add an artsy design or appliqué, to cover the offending mark
• Add a piece of hardware, beads, sequins, or buttons
• Add a contrasting fabric or color in velvet or some other festive material
• Change the design by adding a pleat or a dart
• If it’s close to a seam or a hem, then taper or shorten
• If it’s a clean ”L-shaped“ tear, then consider reweaving

This tip is © The Clothing Doctor and used with permission. May not be reproduced in any form without permission.