A Handbook for Repairing Clothes and Hearts

Mending Life by sisters Nina and Sonya Montenegro is a mending guide rooted in a broader philosophy of intentional, sustainable living. The Montenegro sisters are the creators of The Far Woods, whose work spans illustration, education, and ecological practice — and that sensibility runs through the book’s vibrant full-colour illustrations and its framing of mending as a meaningful, restorative act.

The book is practical throughout. Beginners and experienced sewers will find:

• Basic mending skills — threading a needle, tying knots, and foundational stitches
• Sashiko — the Japanese hand-sewing technique for reinforcement and decoration
• Darning — plain weave, swiss weave, crocheted patch, knitted patch, and needle-felted patch
• Patching — three methods for repairing holes
• Mending by item — down jackets, shirt cuffs, linen, and more
• Common repairs — snags, buttons, belt loops, leggings, pant pockets
• Sewing beyond mending — hemming, taking garments in, adding pockets

Also in the mending section: Visible Mending by Arounna Khounnoraj and Wear, Repair, Repurpose.