Mixing and fixing is more the order of business this month. I’m hoping to do a big project over Christmas, so it’s just been quick and immediately rewarding bits.

Fixing holes with silk stitch

After laundering a 1930s jacket, I copied the existing silk stitching to fix a bunch of holes and weak spots. They don’t show at all if you’re not sat on my actual lap, despite my untidiness. Very pleased.

Debobbling

Never does a month pass without some debobbling. It’s just so easy and quick but makes such a difference.

I found a pair of Mulberry wool trousers that had been absolutely ruined by their previous owner – £4.50.

Five minutes with my debobbler and they were ready to look expensive again.

I also bought a cashmere comb as I was getting nerdy about caring for cashmere, so a few precious pieces have had a groom.

Darning 100-year-old lace

Going right back to the end of November, I patched up some holes in a 1930s lace dress. Messily, but strongly. And that’s all that matters.

Jeans surgery for a dear friend

I fixed a hole in some jeans for my next-door neighbour earlier this year and a few mornings ago, he tippety-tapped on the door with another pair.

Very glad there’s one thing I can do, considering he does lots for us. I’ve also literally never needed to darn any of my own jeans, so it’s fun to do cool workwear-style mending for a change. I adore seeing a mend on vintage clothes.

One make: a felt paper chain

My parents went away for a week and I didn’t want them to come back to Christmas everywhere except their house, so I made a paper chain from felt.

The simplest craft you could do, but very satisfying. Wish I’d cut thinner pieces so it hung better but it’s very jolly anyway.