During NAOC, I acquired 9 holes and tears of varying sizes in 3 pieces of Icebreaker attire (2 shirts, one pants). Is it possible to darn this material without a machine? I've poked around youtube but the videos all seem to be about how to repair socks made with thick yarn. Or should I just take it to a seamstress?
How best to fix it depends on the size and shape of the holes. If they're small or linear tears, just pull the edges together and overstitch (I would do this by hand rather than with a machine no matter what). There are several stitches you can use - google "blanket stitch" or just overstitch it. For round holes, it works better to patch the hole.
This seems to be the only downside ( besides the price) of this beautifully fine fabric - it is easy to get holes!
I've actually noticed this as well with my Icebreaker clothing. Great clothing but easily damaged. Curious to hear if there is an easy way to repair it as they are not cheap!
You can also buy fabric glue to mend holes, which is easier than sewing but I strongly suspect would give a terrible result.
do NOT use fabric glue. It dries stiff and scratchy, and you cannot get rid of it. Just use needle and thread and sew the edges together as best you can.
FWIW, I have a handful of icebreaker tops, which I rogaine in, and have never had a hole. But then. I've noticed that the newer stuff seems more fragile.