What is seam haptics?
Haptics refers to tactile perception and is also known as ‘touch’ in practice. There are objective measurement methods for assessing textile surfaces, but not for seams. Seams are assessed exclusively subjectively, i.e. through manual inspection or wear tests.
For clothing that is worn close to the skin, soft seams and a soft touch are very important. This is a particularly important quality feature for lingerie and sportswear manufacturers. For striking seams on leather products and accessories, on the other hand, a robust sewing thread that matches the material is often used.
The seam haptics or feel of the seam is influenced by the fabric, stitch type and sewing thread:
- Depending on the fabric, the seam sinks into the sewing material and is more or less noticeable.
- The choice of stitch type determines the amount of thread on the top and bottom of the fabric (example: low seam presence with a single-needle double lockstitch, high seam presence with a multi-needle overlock stitch). The type and position of the stitch formation in the fabric affect the softness of the seam. The double chain stitch feels rougher on the bottom of the fabric than the double lockstitch, where the stitch formation is in the centre of the fabric, due to the looper thread chain.
- The sewing thread has an enormous influence on the feel of the seam. The feel can be changed by varying the ticket number and construction. Fine tickets, such as Serafil fine 300, are significantly less noticeable than coarse tickets, such as Serafil 10. Textured microfilaments, such as Sabasoft, with their voluminous, soft character, give a different ‘seam feel’ than Serabraid, the braided continuous filament thread.
Due to the aforementioned influencing factors, sewing tests are recommended prior to production if a specific seam feel, such as a soft seam, is desired.
FAQ
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Seam haptics refers to the tactile perception or feel of a seam.
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No. Unlike fabric surfaces, seams are assessed subjectively through manual inspection or wear tests.
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For garments worn close to the skin, such as lingerie or sportswear, soft seams are a key quality factor.
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No. In leather goods or accessories, a more robust and visible seam may be desired.
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Depending on the fabric, the seam may sink into the material or remain more noticeable on the surface.
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Yes. Stitch type determines thread distribution and seam presence. For example, a double chain stitch often feels rougher than a double lockstitch.
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Thread thickness and construction significantly affect seam presence. Fine threads are less noticeable, while coarse or braided threads create a stronger tactile effect.
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Yes. Textured microfilament threads provide a softer and more voluminous seam feel compared to smooth or braided constructions.
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Sewing trials are recommended to evaluate seam feel before production.