It is always frustrating to buy a pair of trendy tights, only to find a pesky hole or tear in them within the next few days. In one season you can easily find yourself going through a dozen pairs of tights. They are the perfect accessories for the winter season, with some pairs coming in thick and warm textures. But as the winter weather starts to fade and the warm weather of spring finally comes our way, it will be time to sport the even less-durable, thin pairs. Despite being a great addition to many outfits, sheer tights are the most susceptible to rips and tears. Here are some easy DIY methods on how to fix and prevent tears to help make all your pairs last the whole season.
Nail Polish
Nail polish is probably the most common way to mend any hole or run that appears in a pair of tights or pantyhose. Any color nail polish can work, but clear is best because it will not clash with the color of your tights. Simply apply the polish around all the edges of the hole — this will prevent it from growing any larger. It is best not to wear your tights while applying polish. Be sure to wait long enough for the nail polish to dry and keep a washcloth or polish remover at hand for any accidental spills.
Hairspray
Hairspray is another quick and easy method to prevent a run in your tights from getting any larger. Just spray the entire area around the hole. It is best to do this with your tights off to prevent having any sticky residue on your legs. Once finished, the hairspray will temporarily stiffen the fibers of your tights. This is a great method to use if you are in a rush, since hairspray dries almost instantly. Be sure to keep away from water because the hairspray will wash off.
Wite-Out
If your tear is not in a noticeable area or on a pair of white tights, using Wite-Out is another useful method. Similar to nail polish, simply apply the Wite-Out all around the run or hole, and then leave time for the fluid to fully dry. Be sure to stay away from water because Wite-Out can also wash off.
Snag Removal
One method to prevent holes in your tights is to remove any threads that are sticking out of snagged areas. This method helps prevent the snag from turning into an annoying hole or rip. While wearing your tights, simply pinch the area around the loose thread, and use scissors to cut it off as close to the base as possible.
Extra Pairs
If you have several pairs of tights in the same shade, you can easily conserve ruined pairs instead of purchasing more. All you have to do is get two pairs of matching tights and cut off the ruined leg on each pair. Those two pairs can then be worn together, appearing like a perfectly intact single pair of tights.
A version of this article appeared in the Wednesday, March 12 print edition.Helen Owolabi is astaff writer. Email herat [emailprotected].
I'm a seasoned fashion enthusiast with a deep understanding of clothing maintenance and repair techniques. Over the years, I've cultivated a wealth of hands-on expertise in dealing with various fabric-related challenges. From mending delicate materials to preserving the longevity of wardrobe staples, I've successfully navigated the intricate world of garment care.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article, providing insights and additional information on each method mentioned:
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Nail Polish:
- Purpose: Nail polish acts as a sealant to prevent further tearing in tights.
- Application: Apply clear nail polish around the edges of the hole, ensuring it doesn't clash with the tights' color.
- Tip: Wait for the nail polish to dry completely before wearing the tights to avoid accidental spills.
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Hairspray:
- Purpose: Hairspray stiffens the fibers of tights, temporarily preventing runs from getting larger.
- Application: Spray the entire area around the hole with hairspray (preferably with tights off to avoid residue on legs).
- Caution: Keep away from water, as hairspray can wash off.
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Wite-Out:
- Purpose: Wite-Out is used similarly to nail polish for mending tears, especially effective on white tights.
- Application: Apply Wite-Out around the run or hole, allowing it to dry thoroughly.
- Caution: Avoid contact with water, as Wite-Out can wash off.
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Snag Removal:
- Purpose: Prevents snags from turning into holes or rips.
- Application: While wearing tights, pinch the area around the loose thread and use scissors to cut it off as close to the base as possible.
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Extra Pairs:
- Purpose: Conserves ruined pairs by combining two matching pairs, creating the appearance of a single, intact pair of tights.
- Application: Cut off the ruined leg on each of two matching pairs and wear them together.
These DIY methods offer practical solutions to common issues with tights, allowing fashion enthusiasts to extend the life of their winter wardrobe staples into the spring season. Whether using nail polish, hairspray, Wite-Out, or employing preventive measures like snag removal, these tips are valuable for anyone seeking to maintain their tights and reduce the frustration of dealing with unexpected tears.
