How a seam should feel

A good seam disappears into the cloth. You notice it only when you look for it: even stitches, a clean fold, no ridge against the skin.

Felled, not faked

On a work shirt we fell the side seam so the raw edge never touches you. It takes more cloth and more time. It also lasts.

Repair starts at the seam. If the stitch is honest, a tailor can open it and close it again.

What to run a thumb along

• Shoulder: it should sit, not bite
• Side: no twist after a wash
• Hem: even, not waving