reknit

Reknit is the process of repairing knitted fabric by reworking stitches to reconstruct the fabric in the damaged area. It aims to restore or preserve the original texture and gauge rather than patching with a separate piece of fabric. Reknit can mend holes or tears and can also be used to alter the fit or design of a garment.

Techniques commonly used include picking up live stitches around the damaged area and reknitting a replacement section in the same stitch pattern, using the surrounding fabric as a guide. Darning with knitting needles or a crochet hook can fill a gap by creating a seamless patch. For larger repairs, methods such as grafting (Kitchener stitch) to join a repaired interval with the surrounding knitting or attaching a knitted patch by grafting or seaming may be employed.

Applications include sweaters, socks, hats, and gloves. Reknitting can extend the life of a garment, restore function, or allow modifications to size and fit. The approach is favored when the goal is to maintain the original texture and appearance.

Tools and materials include knitting needles or a crochet hook, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and replacement yarn that matches the weight and fiber of the original. Matching gauge and tension is important. Visible repairs can be stylistic, while seamless repairs require careful technique and patience.