Softshell patching

[JBo6]

Well I managed to put a rectangular hole about 3/4 of an inch long in the chest of my softshell. Does anyone have any tips on how to fix it. On the Rock Climbing forums needle and thread, then Seam Grip over it. The hole is through the softshell layer, but there is a thin layer underneath that will prevent me from getting to the backside of the hole for further waterproofing.

basically my options are:

1. Fix the hole.

2. Return the jacket to REI because of a lack of durability.

Any thoughts, I'd rather keep the jacket, but is the effort worth it?

[Blake]

Cut a piece of Melco Tape ("McNett Iron-Mend" ) to fit the hole. Apply heat, then use seamgrip at the patch/jacket interface.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Iron-Mend-repair-patch-kit/dp/B000W7KXAI

[G-spotter]

Buy an iron-on nylon patch for $2 at the local department store, cut to size to fit over hole, round edges and just iron it on. Works great.

[OlympicMtnBoy]

If I have a tear, and not an actually hole (ie: you can pull the edges back together), then I just pull out my sewing machine. Set it for a wide zig-zag stitch and just stitch the sides back together. It works pretty well and if you do a tight stitch with polyester thread it will be as waterproof as the softshell material and not look too bad. Or have your mom or girlfriend do it if you don't have a sewing machine. That's how I fix crampon holes in my pants and gaiters.

 

For a real patch I had a pair of softshell pants I took an extraneous pocket off of and I use that for patch material. That McNett stuff probably works well too, or check Seattle Outdoor Fabrics for material. I don't know about the durability of seam grip though, I just don't worry about it since softshells aren't really waterproof to begin with, a good sewing job should be fine.

[JBo6]

Tear is a better phrase. Thanks for the help.

[Blake]

II don't know about the durability of seam grip though,

 

It will outlast whatever material you use it on.