Elastic

Knitted, Braided, Non-rolled? How Do I Choose Elastic?

Braided elastic is lightweight and it narrows or curls when it is stretched. It can be inserted in a casing or sewn directly to the wrong side of the fabric. Braided elastic is manufactured using a composition of materials such as polyester and rubber and is most often inserted in waistbands, sleeves, necklines and leg bands. Since it's made with coverings & rubbers, braided elastic is more shrink resistant and will often be unaffected by chlorine and salt water.

Knitted elastic resists curling when stretched and is a very soft and comfortable option used in a variety of applications including waistbands, gloves, suspenders, belts, face mask straps, sporting goods, sweatbands, horse blankets, elastic pockets, and swimsuits.

Non-roll woven elastic remains flat and unrolled. It's great for waistbands in skirts, slacks, shorts, pajama or legging waistbands, children's clothing, and sports bras, It's a firmer medium weight elastic that resists rolling or twisting. Shrink resistant, machine wash and dry and usually unaffected by chlorine bleach.

Elastic thread and cord is comfortable against the skin and has optimal give. It is small in size making it superior for doll clothes and baby sewing. It is also commonly used to make loops as buttonholes.

How to order: At goldstartool.com we offer small rolls or large spools of braided, knitted, and non-roll elastic, in addition to elastic thread and cord. Below is a list of recommended widths for different applications.

• Waistbands -- 3/4" to 1" wide from most garments. 1/2" may be wide enough on lightweight children's clothing.
• Necklines- 1/8" to 1/4"
• Sleeves -- 1/8" to 1/2"
• Swimwear -- 1/4" to 3/4"