Mending: repair the break without restoring lost magic

SRD 5.2.1 · Spell decisions

Before casting

At the table

1. Identify the single break or tear being repaired and confirm it is no larger than one foot in any dimension.
2. Touch the object and allow the one-minute casting with its listed components.
3. The physical damage is repaired without a trace, but the spell cannot restore magic to a magic item.

Example decision

A damaged magic item has a small qualifying physical break and has lost its magic. Does repairing the break with Mending automatically restore its magical power?

No; the spell can repair it physically but cannot restore magic.

The final sentence expressly separates physical repair from restoration of magic. If the break meets the spell’s size and touch requirements, Mending can repair that break. The lost magical function needs whatever other solution is applicable; it is not regained merely because the join no longer shows damage.

Watch for this mistake

A single casting repairs a single break or tear, not unlimited damage across a large object. Do not overlook the one-minute casting time when the scene has an immediate deadline.

Ask the table

Which specific break is being repaired, and is the desired result physical integrity or magical function?

Source spell

Transmutation Cantrip (Bard, Cleric, Druid, Sorcerer, Wizard) Casting Time: 1 minute Range: Touch Components: V, S, M (two lodestones) Duration: Instantaneous This spell repairs a single break or tear in an object you touch, such as a broken chain link, two halves of a broken key, a torn cloak, or a leaking wineskin. As long as the break or tear is no larger than 1 foot in any dimension, you mend it, leaving no trace of the former damage. This spell can physically repair a magic item, but it can’t restore magic to such an object.

Source: SRD 5.2.1, 148. Online guide.