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What are a Single Stitch T-shirts?
What are Single Stitch T-shirts?
We all love Tees from the 70s, 80s and 90s, right? One way to really tell that a t-shirt is vintage is to check the stitching. Vintage Single Stitch T-shirts are T-shirts made before the mid-1990s that are distinguished by their single line of stitching on the sleeves and hem of each garment. This construction method is a hallmark of older T-shirts, as most modern T-shirts use a double-stitch method due to advancements in manufacturing techniques.
Here are some key features of vintage single stitch T-shirts and how you can identify them:
Single Stitching: The most notable feature is the single line of stitching along the sleeves and hem, which gives the shirts a unique look and feel. They are way less bulky than modern shirts.
Era: These T-shirts are generally from the 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s, making them true vintage gems.
Quality Fabric: Vintage single stitch T-shirts often use softer, thinner cotton compared to modern shirts, which can give them a more comfortable, worn-in feel. We love to use the term paper thin to describe this lived in feel.
Cool Graphics: The graphics on these shirts are often unique, with a mix of band logos, sports teams, company brands, or other retro designs that may no longer be in production. You probably won’t show up at an event with the same tee as anyone else!
They are Rare: Because they are no longer produced, these T-shirts are sought after by collectors and fashion lovers. The rarity and nostalgic value can make them highly prized items.
Vintage Single Stitch T-shirts have become a popular item in the vintage and secondhand clothing markets due to their distinct style and the nostalgic value associated with them. Browse our online selection of Single Stitch Vintage Tees here!
Here is how they were made- Single stitch T-shirts were manufactured using a method that was common before the mid-1990s. Here's an overview of how they were typically made:
1. Materials
Fabric: These T-shirts are usually made from 100% cotton, although some blends might have been used. The cotton is often softer and thinner compared to modern T-shirts. (If you find one that has been worn in, we call it paper thin.)
Thread: A single thread is used for stitching, typically cotton or a cotton-polyester blend, which is strong enough to hold the fabric together but provides a cleaner, less bulky finish. For comparison a modern serger can use up to 4 threads to make a stitch.
2. Cutting
The fabric is laid out and cut into the different pieces required for the T-shirt, such as the front and back panels, sleeves, and collar. This cutting is usually done with precision to ensure consistent sizing.
3. Stitching
Single Stitch Construction: The distinguishing feature is the single line of stitching along the hems (sleeves and bottom of the shirt). This is done using a single-needle sewing machine. The single line of stitching provides a clean and minimalistic look but is less durable than the double-stitching used in modern T-shirts.
Joining the Pieces: The various parts of the T-shirt are sewn together using the single stitch. This includes attaching the sleeves to the body and the collar to the neckline.
4. Hem and Sleeve Finishing
The edges of the sleeves and the bottom hem are folded over and stitched with a single line of stitching. This method results in a cleaner look but is more prone to wear over time compared to double-stitched hems. You know when you find one in pristine condition how lucky you are!
5. Printing or Dyeing
Graphics: If the T-shirt is to have a design or logo, this is usually screen printed onto the fabric after the shirt is assembled. Screen printing was the most common method for applying graphics in the era when single stitch T-shirts were popular.
Dyeing: If the T-shirt is not made from pre-dyed fabric, it may be dyed after assembly. Vintage T-shirts often feature unique dye patterns or fading due to the age of the garment.
6. Finishing Touches
Labels and Tags: The final step involves adding labels, tags, and any other branding elements. These are usually sewn into the neckline or hem. Sometimes the best part is the typography used on the tag. The tags can have a real nostalgic vibe with great retro fonts.
The single stitch method was eventually replaced by double stitching as it provided greater durability, especially in mass-produced T-shirts. However, the simplicity and unique appearance of single stitch T-shirts have made them highly desirable among vintage clothing enthusiasts today.
Why you might want to collect single stitch T-shirts-
1. Nostalgia
Cultural Connection: For many collectors, single stitch T-shirts represent a connection to the past, particularly the 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s. These shirts often feature designs, logos, and themes from bands, movies, sports teams, and once popular brands that evoke memories of those eras. Finding one with the vintage graphics you love is such a triumph.
Personal History: Some people collect these T-shirts because they remind them of their own youth or significant cultural moments in time.
2. Fashion Appeal
Unique Style: The vintage designs are often seen as more authentic and artistic than mass-produced contemporary prints you see today. Think art before our digital time giving it a more human made quality.
Trendiness: Vintage clothing has become a significant trend in fashion, with many people seeking out pieces that are unique and not easily found in stores. Single stitch T-shirts are a staple in this trend, often styled as statement pieces. Many celebrities wear vintage and that has helped to increase the appeal.
3. Quality and Craftsmanship
Durability: Despite the single line of stitching, many vintage T-shirts were made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, which has allowed them to last for decades. Collectors appreciate the quality of these garments compared to some modern fast-fashion items made from less durable fabrics.
Softness and Comfort: The fabric of vintage single stitch T-shirts is often softer due to years of wear and washing, making them comfortable to wear.
4. Rarity and Exclusivity
Limited Supply: Since these T-shirts are no longer manufactured, they have become increasingly rare. This scarcity makes them valuable, particularly if they are in good condition or feature iconic graphics or designs.
Collectible Designs: Some single stitch T-shirts have become collectible items, especially those with rare or iconic prints, such as band tour shirts, promotional items, or limited-edition designs. Some collectors will pay top dollar to have an authentic band tee from a specific tour.
5. Sustainability
Eco-Friendly: Collecting and wearing vintage clothing is seen as an environmentally friendly choice, as it reduces the demand for new clothing production and helps prevent textiles from ending up in landfills. Modern fabrics often have more pollutants so reusing vintage clothing cuts out those chemicals being produced.
Secondhand Culture: The growing interest in sustainable fashion has boosted the appeal of vintage items like single stitch T-shirts. Collectors often appreciate the idea of giving new life to old garments. They feel they are making a difference by shopping secondhand.
6. Investment Potential
Value Appreciation: As with other collectible items, certain single stitch T-shirts can increase in value over time, especially if they are well-preserved or feature particularly sought-after designs. Some collectors view these T-shirts as investments. We get it, but say wear them and love them!
7. Community and Identity
Connection: Collecting single stitch T-shirts can be a way to connect with like-minded individuals who share an interest in vintage fashion and culture. There are communities, both online and offline, where enthusiasts buy, sell, trade, and discuss these garments. You’ll find a lot of folks on social media that love and collect these tees!
Personal Expression: Wearing vintage T-shirts allows individuals to express their personality and interests in a unique way. Whether it's a band they love, a favorite movie, or a particular era they identify with, these shirts often carry personal significance. At Ragstock we are all about expressing yourself with your unique clothing choices!
The combination of style, quality, rarity, and personal meaning makes single stitch T-shirts highly collectible and cherished by those who seek them out. Shop Single Stitch Tees online here or at our Ragstock shops that carry vintage!
