Removing the Pocket Stitching on Levi's

The double arch stitching is a trademark of Levi's jeans.

In 1873 Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis were granted a U.S. patent for the invention of blue jeans. These jeans, more commonly known as Levi's, were first used as men's work pants, but have since become a fashion wear for both men and women. The trademark of Levi's jeans is the double arch stitching pattern, also called the “arcuate,” located on the back pocket. If you want to remove this stitching pattern, use a seam ripper.

Things You'll Need

• Seam ripper

Instructions

1. Hold the Levi's on your lap with the pocket side up.

2. Place the seam ripper between the fabric and the thread that forms the stitching. The sewing may be very tight and getting the seam ripper between the fabric and thread can be difficult. Be careful not to push the seam ripper through the fabric.

3. Pull the seam ripper upward to break the thread.

4. Place the seam ripper between the fabric and thread next to the spot you just broke and begin pulling the thread out of the fabric. The thread may come out intact or in pieces.

5. Continue pulling the thread out until you remove the entire double arch stitching.

Tips & Warnings

• Removing the stitching may leave behind holes. These holes may disappear after you wash the jeans, but this isn't guaranteed.

References

• Levistrauss.com: History of the Levi's 501 Jeans