Common Stitching Mistakes to Avoid When Making Shirts

by Muneeb Khan on May 29, 2023

When it comes to stitching high-quality shirts, paying attention to tiny details and precise stitches is essential. Whether you're creating white shirts for men or exploring the vast selection of colorful branded formal shirts, avoiding common stitching mistakes is essential to achieving professional-looking results. In this blog, we will highlight some of the most common stitching errors to watch out for when you are strolling through the shelves or looking for any platform for online shirts in Pakistan to provide you with some helpful tips to ensure your shirt-making or shopping endeavors are a success. Let's dive in and perfect our sewing skills!


Uneven Seam Lines: The Devil Is in the Details

  1. Creating neat and even seam lines is essential for a polished shirt. One common mistake to avoid is stitching uneven or wavy seam lines. This can result from inconsistent feeding of the fabric or uneven tension on the sewing machine. To prevent this, ensure that your fabric is fed smoothly through the machine, and adjust the tension settings as needed. Take your time and sew slowly, paying attention to maintaining a straight line. Remember, the devil is in the details, and flawless seam lines can elevate the overall appearance of your shirt.

Improper Stitch Length: The Balance of Durability and Aesthetics

  1. Selecting the appropriate stitch length is crucial for both durability and aesthetics. Too short of a stitch length can create a rigid and unyielding seam, while stitches that are too long may compromise the strength and longevity of the garment. Aim for a balanced stitch length that ensures the seam holds up to wear and tear without compromising the fabric's drape and movement. A stitch measuring about as much as a thumb should measure the stitch length between 2.5 and 3 millimeters, but adjust it according to the fabric thickness and the type of outcome you desire.

Neglecting Backstitching: Securing the Beginning and End

  1. Backstitching is a fundamental technique that many beginners overlook. Failing to secure the beginning and end of your seams with backstitching can result in unraveling threads and weak seams. To avoid this, reinforce the starting and ending points of each seam by sewing a few stitches in reverse before proceeding forward. This simple technique will ensure that your stitches stay in place and maintain the structural integrity of the shirt. Remember, a strong foundation is essential for a well-constructed garment.


The Art of Seam Finishing

Seam finishing not only enhances the aesthetics of your shirt but also prevents fraying and adds durability. Consider the following techniques:

Zigzag Stitch: A Versatile Finishing Method

  1. The zigzag stitch is a versatile seam finishing method suitable for a wide range of fabrics. It prevents fraying and adds a neat edge to the seams. Set your sewing machine to a medium-width zigzag stitch and carefully stitch along the raw edges of the seam allowances. This technique works well for lightweight fabrics and ensures a clean and professional finish.

French Seams: Elegant and Durable

  1. For a more sophisticated finish, consider using French seams. This method encloses the raw edges within the seam, resulting in a clean and elegant look. It works particularly well for lightweight and delicate fabrics. To create French seams, sew the first seam with the wrong sides together, trim the seam allowance, and fold the fabric, enclosing the raw edges. Then, stitch a second seam to encase the trimmed edges. This technique provides durability and gives your shirt a refined appearance.

Save your time and effort in the long run with these tips. Remember, a stitch in time saves nine.