Stitching plays a key role in determining the quality of a soccer ball. Many are confused if they should opt for hand stitching or machine stitching for the production of soccer balls. This can be resolved easily by taking into account how the item would be used. For example, whether the ball is being used for a World Cup final, floating ball game or merely as a promotional item.
Hand stitching or machine stitching – the key differences
Hand Stitching or Machine Stitching for Soccer balls
- Hand-Stitched– This allows for deeper seams; protecting the stitching. The method of stitching offers longer longevity and playability of the ball.
- Machine Stitched– This is a fast and inexpensive method that is more commonly used for cheaper and lower quality balls. The seams aren’t as deep as the hand-stitched. This means the stitching isn’t as durable. There might be an exposed seam that will be easily stretch and will potentially tear.
- Thermal Bonding / Glue– This could be high-end or low-end. It depends on the process through which a machine heats and presses panels into a mould. The seams can be very small in this method. Low-end production on this method can lead to the glue falling off with continuous usage. Peeling of the panels is often a disadvantage of this method.
These hand-stitched soccer balls tend to cost more than machine stitched soccer balls. However, the hand-stitched balls are regarded to have stronger seams. A 5-ply polyester thread will often be used to produce high-end soccer balls. Since 1996, the World Cup balls have been manufactured using the thermal bonding process. This is due to the shallower seams. Therefore, a smoother ball is made. The most recent ball, Brazuca, has deeper seams. These balls are still using the same thermal bonding method. Hence, keeping the water resistance but avoiding issues on playability.
Should promotional soccer balls have hand stitching or machine stitching?
Hand Stitching or Machine Stitching for Soccer balls
If the item isn’t going to be used as a soccer ball, then it may be more economically-sensible to opt for machine-stitched items over the more expensive hand-stitched balls. Stitches matter upon continuous usage of the item. However, on certain circumstances, the look of the hand-stitched balls may be preferred. Items that need an authentic look, like this antique style ball, may choose the latter.
How can ODM help?
If you’re interested to have a soccer ball as your next sports promo, please contact us right away and see if we can help you with any upcoming projects. Enquire @ ODM for more ways and explanation on how you can vastly improve your business. Our product designers will be able to provide you with multiple unique and interesting ideas for you to wow your audience and increase brand recognition. The specialists here are capable of assisting you throughout every process to ensure a pleasant experience. Contact ODM now!
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What is the difference between hand stitching and machine handstitching?
Hand-Stitched– This allows for deeper seams; protecting the stitching. The method of stitching offers longer longevity and playability of the ball. Machine Stitched– This is a fast and inexpensive method that is more commonly used for cheaper and lower quality balls. The seams aren’t as deep as the hand-stitched. This means the stitching isn’t as durable. There might be an exposed seam that will be easily stretch and will potentially tear.
How does the thermal bonding / glue process work?
This could be high-end or low-end. It depends on the process through which a machine heats and presses panels into a mould. The seams can be very small in this method. Low-end production on this method can lead to the glue falling off with continuous usage. Peeling of the panels is often a disadvantage of this method.
Should promotional soccer balls have hand stitching or machine stitching ?
If the item isn’t going to be used as a soccer ball, then it may be more economically-sensible to opt for machine-stitched items over the more expensive hand-stitched balls. Stitches matter upon continuous usage of the item. However, on certain circumstances, the look of the hand-stitched balls may be preferred. Items that need an authentic look, like this antique style ball, may choose the latter.
