Like any article of delicate clothing, mink coats will start to break down over time for any number of reasons from overuse to poor storage. Maybe there's that rare find at a second-hand or vintage clothing store where a perfectly good mink coat can be had for a bargain and all it requires is some repair work to be ready to wear again. Whatever the reason, one thing's for sure: The pelts have started to come apart. Bringing the coat to a furrier is money that may not need to be spent when all it takes is a needle, thread and some patience.

Pin the pelt in place on the coat, making sure there's a close fit between pelts and they hang at even lengths together.

Stitch the pelt with the leather needle and thread. Some coats may require a thick weight thread to hold the pelts in place. A medium weight is 50, while higher numbers denote thinner fiber threads. Determine the proper thread from the weight of the pelts. Press the needle through the pelt skins, using the thimble for better results. Once the needle has been pushed through, you may realize how tough it is to penetrate through completely, so take the pliers to pull the needle through the hole. It will save your hands from aching and prevent poked fingers.

Brush fur follicles away from the hole. Before each stitch is completed, make sure not to get any fur stuck under the threads. Push it out of the way with your fingers or blow on it to disperse the fur from the area. Finish pulling the needle through.

Repeat the stitching procedures until the pelt is securely attached. Once complete, tie the thread off and snip the ends. Make sure the thread is finished and concealed deep within the pile of the fur. If this can't be done without harming or cutting the fur, then leave it be and just tuck it away as best you can.