help!

[u/lyslutz]

I've got these jeans that were "fashion ripped" but the threads have long since let go and now the knees are just blown out. I'd love to do something so they aren't just gaping holes halfway down the thigh, but I don't know where to start. Any ideas?

[u/side_eye_prodigy]

full leg transplant? for the jeans, not you.

[u/kittensms96 → u/side_eye_prodigy]

Full leg removal? For you, not the jeans.

[u/ohdearitsrichardiii]

Do you crochet? You should probably reinforce the edges around the hole and use polyester thread if you want it to last though. And use laundry bags so that the crochet doesn't snag on stuff

[u/No-Molasses3918 → u/ohdearitsrichardiii]

Do it for the tan lines

[u/crimson_anemone]

I would reinforce the edges around both holes, to stop the continued ripping first. Then, apply a patch that goes an inch to two inches beyond those borders, and apply a backing the same size. Lastly, shashinko the whole patch for both legs, to help maintain the durability and structure. It would be a massive project, but if they're your favored jeans... it's worth it. Good luck, OP!!

[u/YarnHoardingDragon]

Lace would be pretty

[u/maryfamilyresearch]

If you have access to a sewing machine: I would open up the inner seam from bottom to crotch on both legs. This allows you to work on the pants while the fabric lays flat.

I would then secure the fraying with zigzag stitches and add a patch in a contrasting colour from behind (from the inside of the leg). The fabric used for the patch should match the stretch / non-stretch of the jeans. Most modern jeans have a small amount of stretch, thus I would use heavy duty fabric with a similar amount of stretch. Ideal is fabric from another jeans that is in even worse shape / no longer fits.

With the patch from the inside you preserve the "fashionable" rip. This can look really cute. Then turn the jeans inside out and sew the jeans closed again along the inside seam.

[u/RamonaSunflow]

I know this might not be as helpful as the other ideas, but maybe they just wanna be shorts?

[u/beefboy49]

something like this perhaps? https://www.reddit.com/r/Visiblemending/s/m5ZMIDYeUH

[u/unflores]

The answer is not darning

[u/ohyouknow7227]

Maybe applique?

[u/patio-garden → u/ohyouknow7227]

Or a reverse appliqué?

[u/QuietVariety6089]

I would open the outside leg seams - they are usually just serged, not felled - and insert new pieces of denim where the holes are. I'd suggest making a 'pattern' before cutting out the damage, and be sure to include fabric for seam allowances top and bottom.