How Neckties Are Made:

In almost every case a common necktie is constructed from three pieces of cloth: the front (also know as "the bid", The back (AKA "the Spine") and finally the "neckpiece."

Each one of these pieces are be cut at a precise 45-degree angle that ensuring that the tie doesn't twist when tied in many of the common knot styles worn today.

They tie knots include the Windsor knot, the Half-Windsor, The Pratt (Shelby), the Bow tie and the Four In Hand.

Higher quality neckties are always made by hand. An easy way to tell if a necktie was made by hand is to examine the the spine of the tie.

If it is handmade, you will see one single thread sewn throughout the entire length of the tie. Additionally, there should be a fine, wool-blend liner that runs the length of the inside tie as well.

The tie should also have a hand-sewn "keeper" loop sewn to the back of the tie so that the inside-end of your tie will stay behind the front as you wear it.

Another thing to look for in the hand sewn necktie is what's called the "bar tack."

This is a small, single silk knot that's been twisted and tacked by hand onto the tie to complete the seam. This "bar tack" is what holds the entire tie together.

One little known feature of the hand sewn tie that many people do not know about is a piece of thread called the "lifesaver."

You can find it by looking inside of the tie starting at the large end.

By pulling the end of the Lifesaver thread, you can quickly remove any kinks that may have made there way into your tie during everyday wear.

Finally, the best hand made ties are those that are hand finished with steam and an iron, this gives the tie a "buffed edge" instead of the a very hard-finished edge commonly found in mass produced neckties.

The advantage of choosing a well-made tie (and more expensive) tie is that it will last longer and stand up to hundreds of knots.