Sewing elastic to elastic is a common task in sewing, but it can be tricky to get it right. If you don’t sew the elastic correctly, it can stretch out or snap, which can ruin your project. In this article, we will show you how to sew elastic to elastic correctly, so that you can create a professional-looking finish.
To begin, you will need to gather your materials. You will need two pieces of elastic, a sewing machine, and a needle and thread. If you are using a serger, you can also use that. Once you have your materials, you can begin sewing. First, place the two pieces of elastic on top of each other, with the right sides together. Then, sew the two pieces of elastic together using a straight stitch. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam. Once you have sewn the two pieces of elastic together, you can turn them right side out. Then, you can press the seam to give it a professional finish.
Now that you know how to sew elastic to elastic, you can use this technique to create a variety of projects. For example, you can use elastic to make headbands, bracelets, or even shoelaces. You can also use elastic to attach fabric to other fabric, such as when you are making a gathered skirt. No matter what you use it for, sewing elastic to elastic is a versatile technique that can help you create beautiful and professional-looking projects.
Creating a Loop with Elastic
Elastic loops are a versatile addition to various sewing projects, such as garments, accessories, and home décor. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create a loop using elastic:
Materials Required
- Elastic cord
- Scissors
- Sewing needle
- Sewing thread
Steps
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Determine the Length: Decide on the desired length of the loop, allowing for some extra length to accommodate the seam allowances and overlap.
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Cut the Elastic: Using sharp scissors, cut two pieces of elastic cord, each half the desired loop length.
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Fold and Overlap: Take one of the elastic pieces and fold it in half. Overlap the raw ends of both pieces by about 1-2 inches.
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Sew the Overlap: Thread a sewing needle with a double strand of thread. Securely stitch the overlapping ends together with small, even stitches. Reinforce the seam by backstitching a few times.
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Align the Ends: Bring the free ends of the elastic pieces together. Fold one end under by about 1/4 inch and insert it into the open end of the second piece.
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Sew the Seam: Using the same thread and needle, sew a small seam to secure the joined ends. Make sure the stitches cross over each other to create a strong hold.
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Knot the Elastic: Tie a small, secure knot at the point where the two elastic pieces meet. This knot will prevent the loop from coming undone.
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Check the Loop: Stretch the elastic loop to test its strength and elasticity. Adjust the length and tension as needed.
Stitching Elastic to Fabric
Stitching elastic to fabric is a common technique used in sewing projects. To achieve a secure and durable attachment, follow these steps:
1. Gather Your Materials
You will need:
- Elastic (size and type depending on the fabric)
- Fabric
- Sewing machine
- Needle and thread
- Optional: Iron and ironing board
2. Prepare the Elastic
Measure and cut the elastic to the desired length. If necessary, adjust the length to accommodate any shrinkage or stretching that may occur during sewing.
3. Pin and Sew the Elastic
Place the elastic along the edge of the fabric and pin it in place. Use a zigzag stitch or a stretch stitch on your sewing machine to sew the elastic to the fabric. Start and end your stitching several stitches away from the edge to reinforce the attachment.
For a stronger hold, use a triple zigzag stitch. This stitch creates a three-sided zigzag pattern that grips the elastic more securely. Alternatively, you can use a stretch stitch, which is designed to accommodate the stretching of the elastic without breaking the thread.
| Stitch Type | Description | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Zigzag Stitch | Common stitch with a zig-zag pattern | Versatile; suitable for most elastic types |
| Triple Zigzag Stitch | Zigzag stitch with three lines | Stronger hold; ideal for heavier elastics |
| Stretch Stitch | Specialized stitch designed for elastic | Provides stretch and durability |
After sewing, remove the pins and press the seam gently with an iron to set the stitches and improve the appearance.
Hemming with Elastic Thread
One of the most common uses for elastic thread is hemming garments. Elastic thread can provide a comfortable and stretchy hem that is perfect for garments that need to move with the body, such as skirts, pants, and dresses. To hem with elastic thread, you will need:
- Elastic thread
- A sewing machine with a zigzag stitch
- A needle that is appropriate for the fabric you are using
- Fabric scissors
To hem with elastic thread, follow these steps:
- Fold the hem up to the desired width and press it.
- Thread the elastic thread into the sewing machine.
- Set the sewing machine to a zigzag stitch.
- Sew the hem in place, stretching the elastic thread as you sew. This will create a stretchy hem that will move with the body.
Tips for Hemming with Elastic Thread
- Use a light touch when sewing with elastic thread. Too much tension can cause the thread to break.
- Stretch the elastic thread as you sew. This will help to create a stretchy hem.
- Use a needle that is appropriate for the fabric you are using. A too-large needle can cause the fabric to pucker.
- Test the hem before you wear the garment. Make sure that the hem is secure and that it stretches comfortably.
Inserting Elastic into a Casing
Inserting elastic into a casing is a common technique used to create stretch in garments, waistbands, and other sewn items. Follow these steps to achieve a professional-looking result:
Materials You’ll Need:
- Elastic
- Casing fabric
- Safety pin
- Needle and thread
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Casing:
Make a casing in the fabric by sewing a 1/2-inch seam allowance down one side and across the end. Fold the seam allowance over twice to create a 1/4-inch double-folded edge.
2. Secure the Elastic:
Attach a safety pin to one end of the elastic. This will help you feed the elastic through the casing.
3. Insert the Elastic:
Insert the safety pin with the attached elastic into the casing opening. Using a needle and thread, stitch the elastic in place at the beginning of the casing.
4. Tug and Sew:
Gently tug on the free end of the elastic while slowly feeding it through the casing. This will gather the fabric and create stretch.
5. Secure and Finish:
Once the elastic is through the casing, stitch it securely at the other end. Trim any excess elastic and hand-stitch the casing closed, overlapping the ends for a neat finish.
Replacing Elastic in a Garment
Replacing elastic in a garment is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few steps:
1. Remove the Old Elastic
Carefully remove the old elastic from the garment, being careful not to damage the fabric. If the elastic is sewn in, use a seam ripper to carefully cut the stitches holding it in place.
2. Measure the New Elastic
Measure the length of the opening where the elastic needs to be replaced. Cut a new piece of elastic to this length, adding an extra inch or two for overlap.
3. Overlap the Elastic
Overlap the ends of the new elastic by an inch or two. Sew the overlapped area together with a zigzag stitch.
4. Pin the Elastic
Pin the elastic to the garment, aligning the raw edges of the elastic with the raw edges of the opening. Make sure the elastic is taut but not too tight.
5. Sew the Elastic
Sew the elastic to the garment using a zigzag stitch. Start sewing at one end of the opening and work your way around until the other end is reached.
6. Trim the Excess Elastic
Trim any excess elastic that is hanging off the ends of the opening.
7. Secure the Elastic Ends
To prevent the elastic from fraying, sew a few stitches over the ends of the elastic to secure them. Alternatively, you can use elastic stoppers to keep the ends of the elastic in place.
Measuring and Cutting the Elastic
Measure the circumference of your head, adding an extra 2-3 inches for overlap and seam allowance. Cut two pieces of elastic to this length.
Folding and Sewing the Ends Together
Fold one end of each piece of elastic by 1/2 inch and sew the raw edge to the underside of the opposite end. This will create a loop on each end of the elastic.
Attaching the Loops Together
Overlap the loops by about 1 inch and sew them together securely.
Inserting the Fabric
Cut a piece of fabric to a width that is twice the desired finished width of your headband. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and press. Insert the elastic into the fold, aligning the edges.
Sewing Around the Fabric
Stitch around the perimeter of the fabric, encasing the elastic. Use a zigzag stitch for added stretch.
Finishing the Seam
Trim any excess fabric or elastic. Fold the seam allowance to the inside and topstitch to secure.
Testing the Fit
Put on the headband and adjust the elastic as needed to fit comfortably.
Variations
You can use different types of elastic and fabric to create different looks. You can also add embellishments such as beads, ribbons, or buttons.
Tips
Use a needle that is designed for stretch fabrics.
Test the fit of the headband as you sew to ensure it is comfortable.
If you don’t have a sewing machine, you can hand-sew the headband using a blanket stitch.
| Supply | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elastic | 2 pieces (length = circumference of head + 2-3 inches) |
| Fabric | 1 piece (width = 2 x desired finished width) |
| Needle | Stretch needle |
| Thread | All-purpose thread |
Using Elastic for Stretch Lace
Stretch lace is a beautiful and delicate fabric that can be used to create stunning garments and accessories. However, it can be challenging to sew elastic to stretch lace properly.
The key to sewing elastic to stretch lace is to use a method that will allow the elastic to stretch without breaking the lace. One way to do this is to use a zigzag stitch.
To sew elastic to stretch lace using a zigzag stitch, follow these steps:
- Place the elastic along the edge of the lace, aligning the raw edges.
- Use a zigzag stitch to sew the elastic to the lace, using a stitch length of 2.5 to 3.0 mm.
- Stretch the lace and elastic as you sew to ensure that the elastic is not too tight or too loose.
Another way to sew elastic to stretch lace is to use a stretch stitch.
Stretch stitch have a built in pattern of stitching that helps to provide elasticity in the sewn seam, they are designed to stretch and recover with the fabric, making them suitable for sewing on elastic.
Some common stretch stitch types include:
- Triple stretch stitch: This stitch creates a zigzag pattern with three parallel rows of stitches. It is a versatile stitch that can be used on a variety of fabrics, including stretch lace.
- Double stretch stitch: This stitch creates a zigzag pattern with two parallel rows of stitches. It is a good choice for sewing on delicate fabrics, such as stretch lace.
- Overlock stitch: This stitch creates a chain-like pattern that is very stretchy. It is a good choice for sewing on garments that will be subjected to a lot of movement, such as swimwear or sportswear.
To sew elastic to stretch lace using a stretch stitch, follow these steps:
- Set the stitch length to 2.5 to 3.0 mm.
- Select a stretch stitch from the machine’s stitch menu.
- Place the elastic along the edge of the lace, aligning the raw edges.
- Sew the elastic to the lace, using the stretch stitch.
- Stretch the lace and elastic as you sew to ensure that the elastic is not too tight or too loose.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to test the elasticity of the sewn seam before you start sewing the garment. This will help you to ensure that the elastic is sewn on securely and that the lace will not stretch out of shape.
|
Stitch Type |
Description |
Suitable for Stretch Lace |
|---|---|---|
|
Zigzag Stitch |
Creates a zigzag pattern with varying stitch width and length. |
Yes |
|
Triple Stretch Stitch |
Creates a zigzag pattern with three parallel rows of stitches. |
Yes |
|
Double Stretch Stitch |
Creates a zigzag pattern with two parallel rows of stitches. |
Yes |
|
Overlock Stitch |
Creates a chain-like pattern that is very stretchy. |
Yes |
Knotting Elastic
Materials
* Two pieces of elastic
* Scissors
* Lighter or candle
Instructions
1. Cut each piece of elastic to the desired length, leaving a few inches of extra length at each end.
2. Overlap the ends of the two pieces of elastic by about 1 inch.
3. Take the right-hand end of the bottom piece and pass it over the left-hand end of the top piece, forming a loop.
4. Take the right-hand end of the top piece and pass it through the loop formed by the bottom piece, from back to front.
5. Pull the two ends of the elastic tight to form a knot.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 to tie a second knot.
7. Trim the excess elastic from the ends, leaving about 1/4 inch.
8. Use a lighter or candle to melt the ends of the elastic to prevent fraying.
9. Allow the knot to cool completely before using.
Tips
* For a stronger knot, tie a third knot or use a surgeon’s knot.
* To prevent the elastic from breaking, be sure to knot it securely and trim the excess ends close to the knot.
* If you are working with very thin elastic, you may need to use a needle and thread to knot it.
