You know when it's been a little too long between washings and your old socks are in need of a bit of freshening? This blog has some great suggestions.
Which method you choose will depend on how much time and effort you want to put into the process. Please read over this article for tips that will help you decide which method is best for your needs.
Frayed and torn.
It seems like socks always wear out before they get dirty. The heel and toe are often the first to go, so here are some suggestions on how to salvage them.
1. Patch It Up
This is the quickest way for making an old sock last longer. Sew the hole up by hand using a darning needle and strong thread, or use a sewing machine if you have one available to you. If you don't have a sewing machine, get one! You will be amazed at how it makes many repairs.
2. Overlock It
You can overlock a sock by running two sets of zig zag stitches top and bottom for about six inches. You can also use strong thread to sew the sock closed, or use fishing line and a needle to punch stitches in the seam. This over-sewing method will give you many years of service from your old socks that are ruined beyond repair.
3. Throw It Away
Throw the sock away, or give it to a charity organization that will recycle it. You can also replace the worn out parts with new ones, making an all new sock. This is what I like to do, but I always take care to donate a portion of my old socks to those in need so they can be given new life. I keep two pairs at home and one pair in the car for emergencies.
4. Woven It
Many people prefer to weave their old socks, especially if they are yarn-dyed. You can get fancy with your patterns and make them into scarves or afghans. I have a pair that I keep for this purpose, but then again I am not a good enough weaver to make anything out of them yet. Some knitters do quite well with their old socks and make amazing things such as gloves or hats.
5. Wear It!
The sock is still usable as long as it is wearable. I have been known to wear one sock for as long as six months without washing it. I have heard of people wearing their socks for about a year, but I think that was an exaggeration. However, when you opt to wear your socks that long, you need to change them frequently.
6. Save It
This is my favorite method because you can use the sock for a number of different projects that would otherwise be thrown away. Why pay money for a new pair of socks, when you can save an old one and do something with it?
7. Find A New Home For It
There is nothing wrong with donating some of your worn out socks to charities that will redistribute them to people who are in need like us. Before my mother passed away she and her friends made chain mail from socks that were thrown away. This chain mail was given to the police department who then used it as bullet proof vests for their dogs.
8. Sleep On It
When you are on a trip and it's not practical to do laundry, sleep on your socks to save wear and tear on them. You can also sleep on them at home, but I prefer to wear mine out as long as I can stand it first. When I do decide to do laundry, this is one of my favorite cleaning methods.
9. Make a Pillow Case
Old socks are great for making pillows and cushion covers. You can also use them as bedspreads and afghans. That is what I use mine for at home during the winter months. Give them new life by making pillow cases and make a few extras to give away to family members, friends or charity organizations.
10. Use It As Dog Bedding
I just found a new use for my old socks. They make great dog bedding! I use them in the winter and wash them with the rest of the blankets and sheets, then put them in the dryer on low heat to finish drying. Then I stuff them with newspaper to make a nice homemade dog bed.
So, don't throw away your old socks. There is always a good use for them.
See you on the next one!
