Page 2 - Elastic bands
Elastics (also known as draw-in elastic or stretch elastic) are part of every hobby tailor's basic equipment. They ensure comfort and fit - whether as rib knits in dresses and pants, as waistbands or inner waistbands, for masks, pocket closures or as cuffs on sleeves and underwear. The right width and softness make all the difference in terms of comfort and appearance.
What are elastics suitable for?
Wider, soft elastics provide support without cutting in and are particularly suitable for waistbands, loungewear and sportswear. Narrower elastic strands can be used for fine finishes or as a cord replacement in hoods. Elastic bands are versatile and improve the fit and function of many sewing projects.
Processing tips for hobby sewers
- When sewing with a sewing machine: Use a stretch needle, stretch or triple straight stitch or zigzag.
- Pull the elastic into a tunnel or secure it with pins and a safety pin before sewing it together.
- For neat finishes: Stretch elastic evenly as you sew it to the fabric; work with a guide foot or walking foot if necessary.
- With stretch fabrics, stabilize the hem - a narrow elastic can have an additional shaping effect here.
What makes good elastic special?
High-quality elastics are soft on the skin, keep their shape and retain their elasticity even after several washes. They should be easy to work with and not fray. At your Stoffschwester, you will find stretch bands in different strengths and properties to suit different projects and types of fabric. When buying, pay attention to wash resistance and the right width for the planned use.
Whether you are sewing a new garment or want to upgrade existing pieces: Wearing comfort can be significantly improved with the right draw-in elastic. Browse through the selection and choose the right elastic for your next sewing project at your Stoffschwester.