Expert: Marilyn Jane Rimmer - 3/9/2008

Question
I have two afgahans that have recently been torn. I'd like to repair them but really am not sure how to go about it. I understand that there is a way to do it by hand. So before I just jump in and Wing It so to speak I thought I'd check into a better way.
Can you help? Any ideas?

Thank you so much for your time.
Shelly

Answer
This is probably not something that we can do on-line, but I can get you started.  First, you say they were "torn", did they get caught on something (including animal teeth or children!) and have the yarn break? or have the stitches just started coming undone?
Did the original crocheter leave plenty of long tails?  or tie knots and cut the yarn short?
Are they fairly new? so that you can buy extra matching yarn if needed?  Are they older? you may need to find a creative way to add a non-matching yarn.
Are the afghans worked in one piece? or made of granny squares or other pieces?  Made with one color?  or rows of different colors?
How experienced are you at crochet?  If you unwork some of the stitches around the tear, and get replacement yarn, can you work the stitches that were used?
You may want to check if there are crochet groups, Crochet Guilds, or shawl ministries in your area.  That way you can have an experienced crocheter look at the specific problems and help with specific advice.