Taking care of your favorite knitwear is more than just a chore—it is a way to honor the time and thought that went into choosing or receiving each piece. Each piece of knitwear tells a story—a soft cable knit from a grandmother, a cozy cardigan worn on first dates, or a chunky Cotton-like sweater bought on a trip abroad—they all deserve more than a quick wash and a toss in the drawer. With a little attention and patience, you can extend their life for years, even decades.

Start by washing your knitwear gently. Always check the care label, but most knits do best when cleaned with a gentle wool-safe shampoo. Never wring or twist the fabric. Instead, roll it in a towel to absorb moisture. Rolling the towel helps absorb moisture without stretching the fibers. Keep it away from any source of intense warmth, which can cause fading and weakening.

Over time, small holes may appear. A pulled thread, a snag from a bracelet, or even the wear of daily use can leave tiny gaps. Don’t panic. Repairing these is easier than you think. For small holes, use a a small cork or spool to stretch the fabric taut. Then, with a needle and the original fiber from a hidden seam, weave the thread back and forth across the hole, recreating the stitch structure. Take your time. The goal is not to hide the repair completely but to reinforce it. Many people come to appreciate these repairs as cherished marks of longevity.

Losing a button or a zipper pull on a cardigan is common. Keep a small kit of replacement fasteners, needle, and scissors in a drawer. Sewing on a new button takes only minutes and keeps the garment wearable. If the zipper is broken, consider installing a new slider—a tailor or dry cleaner can often do this quickly and affordably.

Fuzz balls or pills are another common issue. Use a fabric shaver to remove them. Do not pull at them—this can widen the problem. Regular gentle de-pilling prevents them from becoming a larger problem.

Finally, store your knitwear properly. Always lay flat—as hanging can stretch the shoulders and alter the shape. Use paper-lined drawers with cedar blocks to deter moths. Avoid sealed poly bags, which trap moisture and can lead to mildew.

Repairing knitwear is not just practical—it is meaningful. Each stitch you make is a quiet act of respect for the item, the person who gave it to you, and the moments it has carried you through. When you mend your knits, you are not just fixing fabric. You are keeping love alive.