Can Kake-tsugi Repair Anything? - Tsumugi-kaketsugi

Can Kake-tsugi Repair Anything?

Kake-tsugi is a restoration technique that repairs damage such as holes and tears in clothing, restoring them to a condition close to their original state. By using the same fabric or thread as the original and performing all repairs by hand, we can restore various types of items. This time, we will answer the question, “What can be repaired with kake-tsugi?”

Everyday Wear

1. Suits (Jackets, Slacks, etc.)

These are the most frequently requested items at our store. Since many people wear them daily, they often encounter issues. Although there are various materials and weaves, we can handle almost any fabric. This is one of our specialties in kake-tsugi.

[Before Repair] Jacket pocket area torn due to strain.
[After Repair] Jacket pocket area neatly repaired.
[Before Repair] Wool slacks thinning and forming a hole in the crotch area.
[After Repair] Wool slacks neatly repaired, including the previously thin area.

2. Knit Products (Sweaters, Scarves, etc.)

Knit products come in a variety of items, from clothing to accessories, with various requests. While the damage is often unique, many repairs result in a relatively neat finish. It is worth repairing damages to knit products instead of giving up.

[Before Repair] Red wool sweater with a moth hole.
[After Repair] Red wool sweater neatly repaired.
[Before Repair] Thin wool knit with a torn seam under the arm.
[After Repair] Thin wool knit neatly repaired along the seam.
[Before Repair] Scarf starting to tear from the edge.
[After Repair] Scarf neatly repaired.

3. Outerwear (Coats, Jackets, Down Jackets)

Outerwear is often worn frequently during its season, and since many people own few of these items, they are exposed to rain, wind, snow, and frequent wear and tear. They often accumulate damage without notice. During off-seasons, they are stored for long periods, making them susceptible to moths and mold. While many repairs are brought in after winter, we also see a surge in requests just before winter when people discover damage as they take out their outerwear.

[Before Repair] Max Mara wool coat with a moth hole.
[After Repair] Max Mara wool coat neatly repaired.
[Before Repair] Moncler down jacket with a moth hole.
[After Repair] Moncler down jacket neatly repaired.

4. Shirts, Blouses, T-shirts

Shirts and blouses are frequently worn in various settings, from office use during cool biz to casual everyday wear. Due to frequent use, they often encounter stains, wrinkles, and damage. These favorite items should be repaired promptly when issues are noticed.

[Before Repair] Louis Vuitton T-shirt with a small snag.
[After Repair] Louis Vuitton T-shirt neatly repaired.

5. Sweatshirts, Trainers

Though casual, many high-brand sweatshirts and trainers are brought in, often with unique designs. They are challenging to repair due to their noticeable damage, making professional repair necessary.

[Before Repair] Givenchy hoodie with a moth hole.
[After Repair] Givenchy hoodie neatly repaired.

【Special Occasion Wear】

6. Kimonos

Representing traditional Japanese clothing, kimonos are often made of delicate silk with intricate patterns requiring special care. Repairs are performed by skilled artisans.

[Before Repair] Kimono (pure silk) with a small moth hole.
[After Repair] Kimono (pure silk) neatly repaired.

7. Formal Wear

Formal wear such as mourning suits, dresses, and ceremonial suits are also frequently requested. Despite being worn infrequently, they often have damage or stains due to long storage periods. These delicate items require high-level repair skills, and we have successfully repaired items refused by other stores.

[Before Repair] Formal suit with a significant tear on the shoulder.
[After Repair] Formal suit neatly repaired.

8. Vintage Clothing

Recently, the demand for vintage clothing has increased. Various items from T-shirts to coats are brought in, often one-of-a-kind, by vintage shop owners and individual enthusiasts. Even tiny holes are often requested for repair, reflecting the sentimental value of these items.

[Before Repair] Sweatshirt with moth damage.
[After Repair] Sweatshirt neatly repaired.
[Before Repair] T-shirt with logo damage.
[After Repair] T-shirt repaired with minimal visible traces.

6. Accessories and Special Materials

Although we primarily receive requests for clothing, we also handle fabric products and knitted accessories. Items such as favorite scarves, gloves, and shawls are often brought in with pulled threads or small damages. Even if you think, “Can this be repaired?” please consult with us.

[Before Repair] Silk scarf with a pulled thread causing a black line.
[After Repair] Silk scarf neatly repaired, pattern restored.
[Before Repair] Lace with a large tear.
[After Repair] Lace repaired seamlessly, pattern restored.
[Before Repair] Leather down jacket with a sharp cut.
[After Repair] Leather down jacket repaired with minimal visible traces.

How was it? While some materials are difficult to repair with kake-tsugi, and some repair marks may be noticeable, we can generally handle a wide range of items. If you are unsure whether an item can be repaired, please feel free to consult with us! We hope to help you enjoy your favorite items for as long as possible.