Boys’ T-shirts - Finishes And Construction

Although T-shirts are often viewed as almost disposable items, the ones that are made from cheap mixes and have poor construction are probably condemned to the rubbish bin after only a few outings. T-shirts of poor quality have twisted seams, shrink or grow wide and short, are out of shape, have lost their colour in patchy blotches and any transfers lose their integrity and become cracked and peeled. Such a T-shirt is no longer a desirable addition to your wardrobe and is rightfully a candidate for the recycling container to be turned into something useful.

A good quality T-shirt should fit well; the neckband should be neat and firm knit ribbing that yields easily when you stretch it over your head and return to shape once its around your neck. This might not be so in a 100% cotton T-shirt as nylon blends are often used to provide reinforcement and flexibility. The knit structure is key to the T-shirts ability to hold its shape. It should contain firm, close round loops that have not been stretched or pulled into long thin shapes. Stretched loops return to their round shape when the garment has been laundered, which results in the short, wide appearance of a poorly constructed T-shirt. Loops are very important; for a knit they should follow the grain of the material smoothly and not be on the bias or at an angle, the vertical loops should be perpendicular to the hem otherwise distortion takes place and twisted, non-matching seams are the result. For T-shirts without side seams you might think you have avoided the problem, however, these garments may have been cut from circular knit tubes and you still need to look for uniformity of loops and smoothness of the grain, evidence of twisting or angles in the body of the garment will indicate that it wont survive the laundry without giving in to twisting.

Furthermore, the stitching itself needs to be smooth, even, unbroken and with no signs of drawing at the seams. Unless it is part of the design and topstitched, hems should not show. Seams at the neck, shoulders and back or yoke should have reinforcing tape in position to maintain the shape and side seams should be overcast or zigzagged to ensure a flat lie but still allowing flexibility of movement.

Theres nothing more annoying than a new T-shirt, ready to become your new favourite, shrinking in the wash. You should check the label to seen if it has had a shrink finish, particularly if it is 100% cotton. Manufacturers care instructions must be observed if you wish for your T-shirt to retain its integrity and good looks. There is always a sewn in instruction label with care or embellishment like flock or vinyl printing there may be considerations regarding temperature, ironing, tumble drying and bleaching. Some garments may have to be washed inside out to protect any print transfers or flock finishes that often make up logos on popular designs so follow instructions closely.

By:
Joey Bloggs

Employee of Corporate Clothing company - JKL Clothing