loose stitching

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "loose stitching" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where the stitching on a piece of fabric or clothing is not tight or secure, often indicating a flaw or potential issue. Example: "The dress I bought had loose stitching, which made it uncomfortable to wear."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The hems stuttering with loose stitching.

The New Yorker

In later years, Ali's trainer, Angelo Dundee, admitted tweaking the loose stitching of his fighter's right glove so that the formal minute interval was stretched by six seconds before a replacement was found.

The Guardian

Loose stitching.

WikiHow

Glue and loose stitching are not permitted.

WikiHow

Tears, loose stitching, or worn loops could cause the sling to break mid transfer, possibly injuring yourself or the user.

WikiHow

If the cap has loose stitching or a cardboard brim it might fall apart if you wash it.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

General Manager Sam Presti said that doctors determined that a loose stitch was to blame for the swelling.

The New York Times - Sports

In Prokofiev's Fifth Symphony, the orchestral fabric had loose stitches in the first movement, mostly among the brasses, but the rest of the playing there and throughout the work was remarkable.

The New York Times - Arts

For example, longyi, a traditional Myanmar skirt for both men and women, almost always had visible loose stitches that reduced my desire to buy, despite being pretty and reasonably priced.

The Economist

A few hours after the operation, Mr. Tools was taken back to the operating room to stop bleeding in his chest, which his doctors attributed to one or two loose stitches.

The New York Times

One complication that the surgeons described as "very minor" has already occurred; late Monday night, the patient underwent a second operation lasting two hours to stop bleeding caused by one or two loose stitches among the hundreds placed in his chest during the original implant operation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When inspecting garments or textiles, check for "loose stitching" along seams, hems, and closures to ensure durability and quality.

Common error

Avoid using "loose stitching" as a catch-all term for fabric flaws. "Loose stitching" specifically refers to the security and tension of the stitches, not issues like pilling or fading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "loose stitching" functions primarily as a descriptive term. It's used to identify a flaw or potential problem in the construction of a sewn item, as seen in Ludwig's examples relating to clothing, accessories, and even medical contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

44%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "loose stitching" refers to stitching that is not tight or secure, often indicating a flaw or potential issue in sewn items. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It appears most commonly in Wiki and News & Media contexts. While not extremely frequent, it is a recognizable term with clear implications for quality and durability. When inspecting textiles or garments, keep an eye out for "loose stitching" to ensure longevity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unraveling stitches

Specifies the action of the stitches coming undone.

shoddy stitching

Emphasizes the poor quality of the stitching work.

unsecured seam

Focuses on the lack of security in the seam, rather than the stitching itself.

faulty seam

Emphasizes the defect in the seam's construction.

frayed seam

Implies that the seam is worn and the threads are separating.

imperfect seam

Highlights the lack of perfection in the seam.

badly sewn seam

Highlights the poor quality of the seam construction.

weak seam

Implies the seam is not strong or durable.

poorly attached seam

Highlights the inadequate attachment of the seam.

defective seam

Focuses on the presence of a defect in the seam.

FAQs

How can I identify "loose stitching" on clothing?

"Loose stitching" is identifiable by visibly slack or easily pulled threads along seams and hems. Check for gaps or areas where the fabric layers are not securely joined.

What problems can result from "loose stitching"?

"Loose stitching" can lead to seams unraveling, reduced garment durability, and an overall decrease in the quality and appearance of the item. In severe cases, it may require repair or replacement.

Is it possible to fix "loose stitching" myself?

Yes, "loose stitching" can often be repaired at home with basic sewing skills. Re-sewing the affected area with a stronger stitch or reinforcing the existing seam can help prevent further unraveling. However, for valuable or intricate items, professional repair may be preferable.

What are some alternatives to describing "loose stitching"?

Depending on the context, you might use phrases like "unraveling stitches", "weak seam", or "poorly attached seam". These alternatives emphasize different aspects of the stitching defect.