Shorts Problem

[The Historian]

My Pearl Izumi shorts have a seam opening on them. It's right above the chamois, where the lycra has to stretch over my, ahem, belly and loose skin mass. Any hope I can sew this seam shut, or am I out a pair of 70 dollar shorts?

[ang1sgt]

Find someone that has either an OVERLOCK Sewing Machine or a Machine that can be used on stretch material. There are different settings that can be used. You MIGHT be able to talk with one of the folks that sell sewing machines at a place like Jo-Ann Fabrics and sweet talk them into trying a quick repair. Make em believe that you are thinking about buying a machine for your wife!

If this get's back to my Jo-Ann Fabrics Manager Wife... I'll deny any knowledge of making this post. LOL!

[BeckyW]

+1 on using overlock/serger if you try to do a repair. Zig-zag stitching (on a regular sewing machine) can work, but isn't as attractive and won't prevent unraveling as well as serging. Whatever you do, be sure to sew it in such a way that the fabric can stretch without the thread popping.

[foehn]

My Pearl Izumi shorts have a seam opening on them. It's right above the chamois, where the lycra has to stretch over my, ahem, belly and loose skin mass. Any hope I can sew this seam shut, or am I out a pair of 70 dollar shorts?

YOu can also try calling local drycleaning stores, as they often make repairs and alterations. If they do not sew stretch, ask them if they know anyone who does. Check out tailors in the yellow pages also.

Many times fabric stores will not do repairs but they know of people who custom sew and can make repairs privately (non-store-commercial); be sure to ask if you call them.

Locally, I have access to a store that manufactures women's swimsuits--you might check around to see if there is one by you. Also, try at department stores or stores that sell men's and women's clothing as they often have alteration departments the will do repair work.

Make sure you tell the people you talk to exactly what kind of work you want done: seam repair work done on 4-way stretch lycra shorts, and you would like it done with a serger/overlock machine.

Look also in the phone book (or where ever) for clothing manufacturers in general, as they may be able to help you.

Also, remember to talk to everyone you know and ask if they know a good seamstress/tailor who could do this job for you. You never know who might be able to help you with the information you need!

[piper_chuck]

The following came directly from the PI web (http://www.pearlizumi.com/customerservice.php?page=lifetimeguarantee) site:
Pearl Izumi product is built to last the lifetime of the garment, and that is how long we will stand behind it. Pearl Izumi products are fully warranted to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. If a product fails due to a manufacturing or materials defect, even after extended use, we will replace it or repair to restore the original function without charge, at our option. This warranty does not include product failures resulting from accidents, misuse, improper care, or normal wear. This warranty policy supercedes all previous warranty policies. For further information email warranty inquiries to info@pearlizumi.com.

I'd take a picture and email them. It's possible they'll offer to replace them.

[foehn]

The following came directly from the PI web (http://www.pearlizumi.com/customerservice.php?page=lifetimeguarantee) site:
Pearl Izumi product is built to last the lifetime of the garment, and that is how long we will stand behind it. Pearl Izumi products are fully warranted to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. If a product fails due to a manufacturing or materials defect, even after extended use, we will replace it or repair to restore the original function without charge, at our option. This warranty does not include product failures resulting from accidents, misuse, improper care, or normal wear. This warranty policy supercedes all previous warranty policies. For further information email warranty inquiries to info@pearlizumi.com.

I'd take a picture and email them. It's possible they'll offer to replace them.

If it is just a seam that has given away on his shorts, he should be warranty covered. . .

[Pinyon]

PI has a really decent reputation for returns around here. If you know where you bought them, most of the LBS places around here will switch them out for you. If you don't remember, or don't have a recept, or they don't know you where you bought them, PI will probably exchange them for you too. The website says something about a 30-day return policy...but it can't hurt to ask! Here is a link to the website:

http://www.pearlizumi.com/customerservice.php?page=returnsexchange

Have fun out there!