A suit plays a major role in your appearance in business settings, so it’s essential to keep it in the best possible condition. The elbows are especially prone to wear and tear. Here, we’ll explain how to effectively repair and prevent damage to the elbows of your suit.

◎ What Kind of Damage is Common on Suit Elbows?

The wear on the elbows of suits is caused by daily activities and habits, particularly if you spend a lot of time doing desk work. Resting your elbows on the desk frequently leads to wear, fraying, and even holes in the fabric.

◎ How to Repair Elbow Damage

1. Delicate Hand Stitching
   For small tears or holes, you can use fine stitches to repair the damage by hand. Choose thread that matches the suit’s fabric and color, and sew carefully to make the repair as discreet as possible.
2. Patchwork
   • Repair with matching fabric: One method is to apply a patch from the inside using matching or similar fabric and sew it in place. This can effectively hide the damage, but be sure to work carefully so the patch isn’t visible from the outside.
   • Repair with contrasting fabric: If the hole is large, or you want to make a fashion statement, you can sew an elbow patch using a completely different fabric. This method is often used with tweed or thick jackets and can be a stylish repair. Elbow patches are popular among fashion-savvy individuals and are recommended for those looking to add a unique touch to their suit.
3. Using Fabric Glue
   For very small tears or loose seams, fabric glue can be used for a temporary fix. However, this method may not hold up well to washing. In terms of durability and appearance, stitching is recommended.
4. Professional Repair
   If the damage is extensive, consulting a professional repair service is your best option. For expensive suits or cases where appearance is critical, it’s recommended to seek the expertise of a specialist in repairs, such as a reweaving service (kaketugi) or a skilled tailor.

◎ How to Prevent Elbow Damage

1. Choosing the Right Size
   It’s important that your suit fits well, especially around the sleeves. If the sleeves are too long or short, it can cause unnecessary friction or pressure on the elbows.
2. Suit Rotation
   Avoid wearing the same suit consecutively. By rotating multiple suits, you can prevent excessive wear.
3. Protecting the Elbows
   While working at a desk, consider using armrests, taking off your jacket, wearing arm covers, or avoiding resting your elbows directly on the desk to reduce pressure on the fabric.
4. Regular Maintenance
   Take your suit to a professional cleaner regularly and get maintenance as needed. This prevents material degradation and keeps your suit in good condition for longer.
5. Take Breaks During Long Desk Work
   Resting your elbows on a desk for extended periods can cause friction and wear on the fabric. Take breaks to stand up and move around to prevent this.
6. Using Reinforcement Patches
   Another preventive measure is to apply reinforcement patches inside the elbows from the start. This can help prevent wear and increase the durability of the suit.

◎ Conclusion

Elbow damage not only affects the look of your suit but can also detract from your overall impression. However, with proper repair techniques and preventive measures, you can keep your suit in top condition. By following these tips, you can enjoy your suit for many years to come.

◎ Reweaving Repair Example 1 (Suit Elbow Tear)

◎ Reweaving Repair Example 2 (Wool Jacket Elbow Hole)