The stabilization and repair of textiles with fine sewing techniques and specialized materials serves to improve the structural integrity of the piece and compensate for losses. Over time, fabric inevitably becomes dry and loses flexibility so that fiber powdering and breakage is common. Through diverse stitch patterns and supportive fabric layers, the piece can be improved in appearance and strength. The procedures used to effect this in textile conservation are darning and couching repairs, addition of net or fabric overlays and underlays, uses of supportive straps for heavy hangings, the addition of backings and linings, and sewing slits or breaks.