Fix a Popped Seam in a Stretchy Garment
Close a seam in a T-shirt, leggings or sweatshirt that has split when the fabric stretched. A beginner can do short splits up to about 4 in (10 cm). Long splits, swimwear and seams that carry stress are better done on a machine with a stretch stitch, or by a tailor.
What you will learn
- Stitching on knit fabric
- Leaving slack for stretch
- Matching an old seam
Materials and tools
Before you start
- Turn the garment inside out. Lay the seam on a table without stretching it, and note how far the split extends.
- Check the care label for the iron heat.
Step by step
Backstitch with slightly longer stitches and slack thread, so the line can stretch with the fabric.
Tips for a neat result
- Hold the seam slightly stretched as you sew, so that the thread has slack when it relaxes.
- Take longer stitches than you would in woven fabric.
- Use a ballpoint needle so that the knit loops are not cut.
Common mistakes and fixes
The new seam breaks when the fabric stretches.
The stitches were too tight or the thread had no give. Resew with slack polyester thread.
A small hole appears beside the seam.
A sharp needle cut the yarns. Use a ballpoint needle.
The seam looks puckered.
The thread was pulled too tight. Unpick and resew, leaving the thread loose.
Check your result
- The seam stretches with the fabric and returns without puckering.
- The repair does not show on the right side.
When to use a professionalSuitable for a confident beginner on short splits in T-shirts and sweatshirts. Use a tailor or a machine with a stretch stitch for long splits, swimwear, activewear with elastic, or seams sewn with an overlock chain.