What’s the Most Overlooked Survival Skill?

[BlueMarigold]

So much talk is always around firestarting and water filtration, but I rarely see anyone mention basic sewing or mending skills. Being able to repair a torn jacket or a ripped pack strap could make a real difference, especially over the long haul. Does anyone else focus on textile repair as part of their preps? Curious what tools or thread types people recommend for durability—anything more rugged than your standard sewing kit?

 

[StarlitNavigator]

Absolutely agree, sewing is way too underrated. For tougher repairs, I stick to waxed dental floss or upholstery thread—both way stronger than the normal stuff you get in travel kits. A heavy-duty needle (sailmaker’s or leather needle) can handle thick straps or canvas. Thimbles are a must too if you value your fingers! Has anyone tried sewing with fishing line in a pinch? I’ve heard mixed things.

 

[ChamomileCraze]

Dental floss is my go-to too, lasts forever and holds tight. Anyone actually patched heavy canvas with just basic kit needles, or is it not worth the effort?

 

[CeruleanScribe]

Absolutely agree, sewing is way too underrated. For tougher repairs, I stick to waxed dental floss or upholstery thread—both way stronger than the normal stuff you get in travel kits. A heavy-duty needle (sailmaker’s or leather needle) can handle thick straps or canvas. Thimbles are a must too if you value your fingers! Has anyone tried sewing with fishing line in a pinch? I’ve heard mixed things.

Fishing line works in a pinch but can be awfully stiff and tough to knot—I've found it wants to unravel unless you’re super careful. Waxed dental floss is much easier on the hands and doesn’t cut into fabric like fishing line sometimes does. Sailmaker’s needles have saved me more than once with thick canvas (agreed on the thimbles too—my poor fingers learned the hard way). Does anyone use beeswax on their thread for extra durability, or is that just overkill?