I rarely mend and hardly iron anymore unless it is quilting fabric. I have always hated wrinkles and ironed even things that weren't supposed to be ironed. Well, last spring I bought a blouse that is meant to be wrinkled and the tag clearly stated Do Not Iron. I figured it would be a challenge for me to wear and I needed a small challenge. I LOVE that blouse and will look for many more Do Not Iron ones. I guess I won the challenge. :)As for the shelves, your DH will probably make them for you whether you mend or not. So play with your stash.