Mending extends the life of your garments. In the process, mending creates a personal connection between you and your clothing item, honors the garment workers and the environment who has lent a hand in making your clothes, and keeps clothing from ending up in landfills. Loved clothes last.

We use 100% natural fibers for patching material and use 100% natural fiber threads. Unlike synthetics or blends, 100% natural fibers are biodegradable.

Yes. We focus on visible mending and patchwork on woven garments at this time.

Absolutely. All you need are thread, needle, fabric scraps, and a little patience. We will be launching Mendful Kits as an offering to our community. Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated.

No.

If a garment isn’t mendable—because the fabric is too worn, the damage is too extensive, or the repair wouldn’t restore its function—there are still quite a few meaningful things you can do. Repurpose: you can cut fabric into rags, patch material, or craft projects. Recycle: look for local textile recycling programs or brand take-back programs. Compost: 100% natural fibers (cotton, wool, silk, linen) that aren’t treated with heavy dyes or synthetics can be composted.

If you are looking beyond visible mending and patchwork in RVA, Top Stitch Mending in Church Hill offers a full range of clothing repair and mending services. For Tailoring needs, try RVA Tailor in Shockoe Bottom. For Dry Cleaning, stop by Fifth Ave Cleaners. For Shoe Repair, try Joe’s Shoe Repair in Carytown and Gus’s Shoe Repair.