Comparison of two fusible webs with two hand sewn methods of hemming 100 percent double knit polyester

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to compare the effects of repeated laundering on the bond strength of fused hems with hems which had been hand sewn. One hundred specimens, henuned with two methods of hand sewing (the catch stitch and the blind stitch) and with two brands of fusible webs, were subjectively evaluated for holding power by five judges. Another 100 specimens, hemmed with the same methods, were tested objectively on the Instron. All specimens were evaluated after zero, one, five, 10 and 20 launderings. Statistical analysis was done through the use of the Two-Way Classic fication Analysis of Variance and multiple comparison procedures (Tukey, 1953). Major findings of this research included:

1. There was a significant difference between the catch stitched and the blind stitched hems. However, the judges rated the catch stitched hems stronger while the Instron showed that the blind stitched hems were stronger.

2. Fusible #1 had a significantly higher bond strength than Fusible #2.

3. The Instron showed that the catch stitch was significantly stronger than Fusible #1, while the judges indicated that these two hemming methods were equal.

4. The catch stitch was significantly stronger than Fusible #2.

5. There was a significant difference between the blind stitch and Fusible #1. However, the Judges' Evaluations rated Fusible #1 significantly stronger, while the Instron showed that the blind stitch was significantly stronger.

6. Although the Instron Test showed that the blind stitch was significantly stronger than Fusible #2, this difference was not significant in the judges' ratings.