1,395. How to Tear One's Garments

Hilchos Taaniyos 5:17

In all cases where one is required to tear his garments, it is to be done by hand and not with a tool. One's garments are torn while standing and one rips all layers until he reveals his heart; these garments are never mended, though they may be sewn in a cruder fashion (making it obvious that they had been torn).

Hilchos Taaniyos 5:18

If a person frequently travels to Jerusalem, then if he arrives within 30 days of his last visit, he need not tear his clothes; after 30 days, he must.