How to Repair a Torn Horse Blanket

Horses roll, run, kick and lay down in a stall. Horse blankets are made with this in mind, but rips are common and every horse owner has faced repairing a blanket. Because a horse blanket is such a big investment, knowing how to repair it is smart. It's not hard to do, and is much like sewing any piece of clothing.

Things You'll Need

  • Iron-on patch
  • Needle
  • Thread
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the blanket. Prior to repairing it, be sure the blanket is clean. Wash and hang dry the blanket. When it is completely dry, you can focus on the repairs.

    • 2

      Assess the damage. The majority of tears are superficial and involve the outer layer of the blanket. If the inner lining or filling is involved, however, you need to know that. Inspect the damaged area carefully. If the blanket has multiple layers, open the tear and look inside. Next, turn the blanket over to see if the tear went through the underside of the blanket.

    • 3

      Repair the damage with an iron-on patch. If the tear is small and the blanket has only one lining (such as a cooler, scrim, fly sheet or light stable rug), the easiest way to repair it is by using an iron-on patch. Heat up the iron, place the blanket inside out and match the iron-on patch to the tear. If needed, trim the iron-on patch to fit. Using the iron, apply heat to the patch. Allow the patch to cool completely before you move the blanket.

    • 4

      Repair the damage by sewing. If the tear is large, or if it is on a blanket with multiple layers (such as a medium or heavy weight turnout or stable rug), sewing the tear is ideal. Using thread that most closely matches the blanket, sew the tear from the bottom, or underneath, the blanket. If you sew from the top of the blanket, your sewing will show the knots and starting points. Just use basic sewing strokes and hold the tear together as you go. Make your thread tight but do not allow it to bunch the blanket up. Keep the blanket on a flat surface as you work. If you encounter problems, pull out the thread and start over. Sewing, like iron-on patches, shows the repair.

    • 5

      Contact a professional. If your horse's blanket is torn through an inner lining or if the tear is very large, it is best to consult a professional seamstress. Especially with a waterproof blanket, you do not want there to be any chance of moisture getting trapped in the blanket's inner lining. This can cause your horse to become ill from exposure. A professional should also be consulted regarding torn surcingles, buckles, tail and leg straps. The seamstress can assess the situation and determine if the blanket is repairable or if you need to purchase a new one.