Making A Hand Sewn Silk Tie Is Becoming A Lost Art

By Author: Justin Brooks
Total Articles: 4
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Silk ties are very popular because of the material used. Silk is often very rich and elegant looking so making a tie out of silk is helpful in creating an elegant looking ensemble for a man. Unfortunately, the demand for silk ties has increased dramatically so many companies are turning towards large manufacturers. Although these companies may make hundreds of silk ties to choose from, the quality may be in question.
Making a hand silk tie is still carried out by a select few but remains unquestionably the best silk tie. This is because all the silk material is carefully rolled out and inspected prior to using for any ties. Once the silk has been examined and approved, the tie pattern is laid out. The cutter uses a very sharp knife to cut the material along the pattern.
The benefit to having a cutter cut the tie from the pattern is that this tie is sure to hang properly and regain its shape appropriately. Other manufactures may use the same size material and make double the amount of ties a cutter may make out of the same size material. This can only be done by cutting off the bias which results in a silk tie which ...
... does not hang correctly and cannot regain its shape.
The next step is the tipping process where a piece of the same silk or different silk pattern is attached to the back and front of the tie. This lining is attached with a machine and is the only part of the hand sewn technique which uses a machine.
The neck, front, and back ties are then pressed together. The idea is not to flatten the tie with the ironing process but instead attempt to leave the three dimensional figure in place.
Slipping is the next part of making a silk tie and requires a great amount of skill. This element to the process involves adding the interlining and folding the silk over and pinning it. The folds can be neither too tight nor too loose.
The greatest skill of all is used when sewing the two pieces together. This involves using a slightly curved needle with silk thread. The stitches must not be seen from the back and not touch the front. It requires a great deal of concentration and expertise which is why the art of making a hand sewn silk tie is becoming rare.

About the Author

Justin Brooks - Managing Director

Gentlemen's Attire is a Brisbane based designer label providing Australian gentlemen with a wide range of shirts and accessories. For any query please visit our website http://www.gentlemensattire.com.au/.