Coming to a store, whether new or second-hand, every customer dreams of purchasing an item that will last a long time and not turn out to be a disposable dummy. In conditions of conscious consumption and the desire to save money, the search for high-quality and durable products becomes especially relevant. How, relying only on your own sight and touch, can you determine whether you have a reliable companion for years or an item that is ready to fall apart after the first wash or slight load?
Assessing quality and durability by eye is a skill that comes with experience, but the basics are accessible to everyone. The first thing you should pay attention to is the material. Natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, wool, silk (if properly cared for) are often more durable than many synthetic counterparts, although modern synthetic fibers can also be very durable (such as high quality nylon or polyester). Try the fabric to the touch - it should be dense (if this is not the designer’s idea), uniform, without puffs or visible defects. The weight of the fabric can indicate its density, but is not always the determining factor.
Next we move on to the details. Sutures are the blood vessels of any thing. Neat, even, tight seams without protruding threads or gaps are a sign of good production. Pay attention to the finishing of the edges and the reverse side. Well-processed seams (for example, using overlock or double stitching) significantly increase the service life of the product. Check the places of greatest tension: armholes, seams in the shoulder area, crotch seams on trousers.
Fittings are another indicator. Zippers, buttons, buttons, buckles - all this must be securely fastened and made of high-quality materials. Metal fittings are usually more durable than plastic ones. Check the operation of the zippers - they should move easily and smoothly. Buttons must be sewn firmly, without weak threads. At Megahand, where the range is huge and varied, carefully checking the accessories before purchasing will avoid disappointment.
The weight of the product can also give some idea of its durability, especially when it comes to bags, shoes or outerwear. High-quality materials and fittings usually weigh more than cheap counterparts. However, this is not a universal rule and depends on the type of product.
Visual inspection includes checking for symmetry, evenness of lines and patterns (if any). Even small misalignments can indicate poor quality tailoring, which will affect the durability and appearance of the item after several uses or washes.
Finding truly durable items at a thrift store like Megahand in Rustavi, Georgia is a fun experience. Here you can find products from well-known brands, the quality of which is often above average, but even among lesser-known brands there are real “indestructible” specimens. By using the visual and tactile assessment techniques described above, you will be able to distinguish the wheat from the chaff and choose an item that will serve you faithfully. Learn more about materials to look for.
Don't forget about smell, too. A strong chemical smell may indicate the use of low-quality dyes or other harmful substances. Good products, as a rule, do not have a strong or unpleasant odor.
Remember that even the most durable materials and high-quality tailoring do not guarantee the eternal life of things without proper care. Follow label recommendations to extend the life of your purchase. Visit our store in Rustavi and see for yourself the wide selection of quality items!
Frequently asked questions
How to distinguish high-quality material from cheap material by touch?
High-quality natural fabrics (cotton, linen, wool) usually have a pleasant texture, they can be dense, but at the same time “breathable”. Cheap synthetic materials often seem slippery, unnatural, can wrinkle a lot or, conversely, be too hard. Experience and comparison of different fabrics help develop sensitivity.
Does a high price always indicate high quality and durability?
Not always. The price often includes costs for marketing, branding, design, and not just the quality of materials and tailoring. At the same time, a very low price can be a warning sign. That is why it is important to be able to evaluate the quality “by eye”, regardless of the price tag.
Is it worth buying things with minor defects at a second-hand store?
If the defect is minor and you are sure that you can easily fix it (for example, sew on a button, mend a small tear in an inconspicuous place) and at the same time the item itself is made of high-quality materials with good tailoring, then this can be a profitable purchase. Assess how critical the defect is to durability and appearance.
Which seams are considered the strongest?
For everyday clothing, seams made with overlock or double stitching are considered good. In areas of special tension (for example, the crotch seam of trousers), reinforced seams are often used. The neatness and density of the stitches are more important than the type of seam.
We hope these tips will help you make informed choices and find real treasures in Megahand Rustavi.