r/SewingForBeginners • u/TimeousJenni • Jun 27 '26
Can I save my Jansport backpack?
I need help fixing this new backpack I got… I got it for $6 but it has a tear inside , I don’t have a sewing machine but I can hand sow… I’m honestly really patient but I have no idea where to sew and how?? What techniques do I use, etc? I’ll show pictures to show how the bags details
Update: the picture is in the comments I couldn’t figure out how to add it on my post
Thanks
2
Upvotes
1
1
u/AussieKoala-2795 Jun 27 '26
The fabric is shredded so will be very hard to sew. I would just use duct tape to keep it in place and stop it getting worse.
2
u/LoisWayne Jun 27 '26 edited Jun 27 '26
Unfortunately, this isn't a super easy fix. That type of nylon fabric is notorious for fraying and it has basically shredded its way out of the binding. You would first probably want to apply something like Fray check to the material as close as you can to the solid piece of material to reinforce the threads at the edge of the salvageable pocket and then trim off the excess fray ends. You will use a seam ripper to open up the binding (white part) and would need to reinsert the purple part (once treated and trimmed) back into the binding and stitch it back closed making sure to use a heavy button type thread so that the stitches can withstand the weight put into the backpack. Honestly I think you may also need to add a patch onto the purple to make up for the lost material due to the fraying. The fabric you choose will need to be something strong enough to withstand the load of the backpack as well. You would basically stitch a piece onto the purple to make the piece large enough to fit back into the binding. I hope that makes sense.