The Wisdom of Mending Things Sooner Rather Than Later

Being proactive and doing something right in the beginning will save the trouble of trying to catch up later. Frannyanne/Shutterstock

We have all been warned, by a parent, a grandparent, or a teacher: “A stitch in time saves nine.” Chances are, we’ve said it to people, too.

But why a “stitch,” and why, more curiously, “nine”?

This is an expression from the textile industry and it takes a little, well, unraveling.

For all the sewing lovers out there: This one’s for you!

Now that we know this phrase comes from the textile industry, the “stitch” is easy to understand—the concept being that if you have a hole in your fabric, you’re best off sewing it up sooner rather than later, to prevent it from growing larger.

The “nine” simply refers to “nine stitches”: One stitch sooner will prevent your having to do nine stitches later.

However, that still doesn’t answer the question specifically as to why nine was chosen.

Sound and rhythm may be the key to why we have the form of the proverb that we do today.

The earliest written appearance of a variation on this proverb was in Thomas Fuller’s “Gnomologia: A Collection of the Proverbs, Maxims and Adages That Inspired Benjamin Franklin and Poor Richard’s Almanack,” published in 1732. In this work, its form was “A stitch in time may save nine.” Note the word “may” in this version.

Yet what’s fascinating is that the author-compiler of this book, Mr. Fuller, provided a little introduction when listing the proverb, giving his take on why it is as it is.

He says:

“Because verses are easier got by heart, and stick faster in the memory than prose; and because ordinary people use to be much taken with the clinking of syllables; many of our proverbs are so formed, and very often put into false rhymes; as, ‘a stitch in time, may save nine; many a little will make a mickle.’ This little artifice, I imagine, was contrived purposely to make the sense abide the longer in the memory, by reason of its oddness and archness.”

Simply put, in the first written record of this phrase, the compiler hypothesizes that the reason for “nine” is because it rhymes, is rhythmic, and is more catchy because “nine” stands out.

In a similar vein, that may be why the “may” was removed later. For those who enjoy rhythm, say to yourself “A stitch in time may save nine” and tap it on the table. Now try, “A stitch in time saves nine.” Which has a more natural, pleasing rhythm? Which rolls off the tongue and flows better? Frankly, being shorter may have also helped the cause of the latter version.

“A stitch in time saves nine” was also featured heavily in a story by the 19th-century American writer Louisa May Alcott, author of “Little Women.” She lived in genteel poverty and knew the importance of taking good care of her possessions. In one of her books, “Proverb Stories” (1882), she chose to feature “A stitch in time saves nine” on the title page of the story called “Kitty’s Class-Day.”

Yet, alas, this proverb bespeaks of practices of an earlier age, a time when garments were carefully mended, sheets were turned at their edges to be resewn and reused, and shirt collars were replaced, as the norm.

However, while this saying reflects a bygone era, there is wisdom in it for people now.

9 Stitches to Save Time

Many of us know this saying, but how many of us really stick to it when we don’t feel like addressing matters at hand? Although some of these go without saying, I hope the following list of concrete examples helps us bear in mind the very tangible aspects of this proverb. When we do remember it, perhaps it can improve our quality of life.

1. Home Maintenance:

Taking prompt action on small repairs, such as painting peeling boards or repairing a small plaster crack, can prevent more significant issues down the line. This ultimately saves both time and money.

2. Financial Planning:

Saving and investing early in life is a financial stitch that yields significant benefits over time. Compound interest works more effectively when you start early, and budgeting your money is a worthwhile life-long habit.

3. Professional Development:

Continuous learning and skill building in your career are stitches in time that can prevent professional stagnation. Regularly updating your skills and staying abreast of industry trends ensures that you remain competitive and adaptable.

4. Data Security:

Implementing cybersecurity measures on your and your family’s electronic devices is a stitch in time. Regularly updating passwords, installing security software, and being vigilant against potential threats can ward off unwanted consequences.

5. Educational Support:

Providing early educational support for children struggling with their studies is a stitch in time that helps prevent larger educational challenges later.

6. Relationship Communication:

Nurturing healthy communication in relationships is a stitch in time that prevents misunderstandings from escalating. Active listening and regularly addressing concerns contribute to stronger and more resilient bonds.

7. Proactive Stress Management:

Engaging in stress management techniques before stress gets overwhelming is a stitch in time for mental and physical health. Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and seeking support when needed can prevent the negative impacts of chronic stress.

8. Vehicle Maintenance:

It’s an obvious one, but regular maintenance of vehicles, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is a literal application of “a stitch in time saves nine.”

Although most of us likely aren’t mending fabric all that often, these examples illustrate how today’s proverb is relevant in various aspects of our lives today.

And now you know why the expression was not: “A stitch in time saves eight.” If the number eight had been chosen, we might very well have never inherited this catchy saying.