Darn Those Socks!
No, I’m not cursing footwear. I’m ordering you to repair your socks with the old-fashioned technique of darning. I warn you, this is a very technical link, but I a happy to decode it for you. It’s not a technique I personally use because I try to darn the sock before there’s a hole. You can usually feel it give way. Examine your footwear as you take it off or fold it. You know folding? That thing you do when stuff comes out of the wash? I’m a lazy folder, but take the time every once in a while to inspect thy clothes!
Instead of buying a pretty wooden darning egg, use a lightbulb. Don’t know what I’m talking about? If you are like me and darn before there is a hole, it helps to put something into the sock to give it form and shape while you work. They make these nice smooth wooden eggs, but an old empty Tylenol bottle will do too.
TIP: When removing the socks off your feet, do not yank them off by the toe. You’re stressing the fibers. Roll/push down the cuff, slide it past your heel and then push it off the rest of your foot.
I encourage everyone to take the time to mend your clothes. I feel lucky that I learned to do these domestic things from my mom and grandmother when she lived with us. These little things remind me how hard my parents have worked to become a success here in the US. If you don’t have someone to teach you, ask around, I’ve hemmed pants for free for friends. I’ve mended childhood blankies crocheted by grandma for officemates. I like giving the gift of my time and skills to my friends. I’m sure your friends do too. If I don’t want to do it, or don’t have the time, I answer honestly and say no if I can’t make the time.
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