How can I fix a 10 inch tear in the lining of my wool coat? I think the lining is made of acetate, or whatever the somewhat flimsy material is that is commonly used. It's a thrift store buy, but a warm one(!), and I cannot afford to have someone else repair it. Also, BTW, I can sew a hem, but that's about it. Is there some kind of easy bonding glue I could use for this? Not concerned about how it looks, but I must still be able to have it drycleaned. Thanks for any help you may offer!

Patricia, February 2009

You could patch it - if you can hem, you can do this though it takes a bit of patience.
Buy a small piece of material of similar weight and shade to the lining, along with suitable thread - a specialist sewing shop should be able to advise you if you are unsure.
Cut a suitable shape to cover the tear, turn over the edges, and iron them flat.
Unpick a length where the lining is sewn to the coat, so that you can get your hand inside.
First pin the patch over the tear, then tack it (long loose stiches to hold it in place) - make sure it lies flat, and completely covers the tear. Remove the pins.
Then stitch securely in place.
Finally, remove the tacking, and resew the lining to the coat.

Rosemary, May 2009

If you can stitch a hem you can stitch this slip stitch:
small stitch on alternate sides of the tear,you can do it!! good luck

Olive, April 2009