mending

Mending is the act of repairing something that is broken or damaged in order to restore its function, prolong its life, or preserve its value. While most often associated with textiles, mending applies to many materials, including metal, wood, and electronics. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe repairing relationships, reputations, or systems.

In textiles, common mending techniques include darning, patching, and seam repair. Darning replaces or reinforces fabric using a needle and thread; patching covers holes with a fabric patch; visible mending intentionally leaves scars as part of the aesthetic, sometimes using embroidery or decorative stitching. In ceramics, the related practice of kintsugi adds lacquer and gold to repaired seams, treating breakage as part of the object's history. Modern approaches may use iron-on patches, fusible interfacing, or textile glue, but durable repair typically relies on sturdy needlework and appropriate thread.

Historically, mending was routine in households worldwide and remains central to sustainable fashion and repair culture. In the United Kingdom during World War II, the Make Do and Mend campaign encouraged repairing rather than discarding. Today, repair cafes and community workshops promote mending skills and reduce waste, while manufacturers increasingly address repairability and spare parts.

In other domains, mending also describes repairing non-physical items, such as software patches or repaired mechanical components, and is a general term for actions that restore past functionality after damage. Overall, mending emphasizes resourcefulness, care, and extending the usable life of objects.