Double stitching at the edges

Short answer: Two parallel rows of stitching at an edge mean the edge is fastened twice. It is one of the cheapest ways to make a garment more durable.

Where you see it

At the sleeve edge, at the hem of a t-shirt and at the waistband of underwear. Two rows of stitching a few millimetres apart. It is sewn with a coverlock that lays the thread flat on the inside.

Why it is better

A single row of stitching carries all the load on its own. If the thread goes, the whole edge opens. Two rows share the load, and if one gives, the other still holds. See bamboo t-shirts for men.

What you can check

Look at the sleeve edge. If there are two rows, the edge is double stitched. If there is one, it is not. See bamboo t-shirts for women and bamboo underwear for men.

Frequently asked questions

Does one row of stitching mean poor quality

Not necessarily, but two rows hold better in edges that get stretched.

Can you resew an edge yourself

Yes, with a zigzag so the seam can follow the stretch of the fabric.

Why does the edge still roll

Because the fabric is knitted. A rolling edge is the nature of the fabric, not a sewing fault.