How to Measure Sewing Elastic

It can be tricky to measure elastic bands properly for sewing because the elastic will stretch when it's sewn to fabric. The good news is that even a novice in the world of sewing can take simple steps to ensure sewing elastics are measured properly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sewing elastic
• Measuring tape

Get the Right Measurement for Your Sewing Elastic

1. Check the packaging the sewing elastic came in when you bought it. It should indicate what types of fabric it is compatible with and what uses the elastic was made for. Do not use an elastic for any sewing application other than those for which it was explicitly intended.

2. Test your elastic before you measure or attempt to sew it. First and foremost, it should be made of rubber. Stretch it out several times, ideally before you buy, checking to make sure the elastic keeps its original length and width after stretching.

3. Measure the waistline (or whatever body part the elastic is intended for) of the person you are sewing for. Repeat the measurement multiple times to ensure its accuracy. Make sure your subject resists any temptation to undercut their actual measurement by holding their weight in. Accuracy is much more important than vanity.

4. Cut the elastic between 8 percent and 10 percent less than the measured length. For example, for a 34-inch waistline, you will want to cut the elastic at about 30 or 31 inches. This is necessary because elastics stretch when they are sewn to material. You can easily find the proper length to cut the elastic by multiplying your waistline measurement by 0.92. Compensate by an additional 1-2 percent for people whose weight is likely to fluctuate downward (active children and adolescents, for example).

5. Stretch the elastic and allow it to recover several times before you measure and cut it. This is informally known as 'warming the elastic up,' and helps ensure the elastic retains its full recovery properties.

6. Cut the elastic to the desired length. It is a good idea to use clear sewing elastic, since it blends right in with whatever type of fabric you couple it and is also lighter and easier to use than heavier elastics containing dyes.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a new 12/80 or 14/90 sharp sewing needle rather than a ball point needle. 12/80 and 14/90 needles will penetrate elastic materials more easily and will help prevent thread from bunching up or breaking during sewing.

[valerie1929]

on 6/6/2009 i have pants that are a little big in the waist. how do you use button hole elastic to just bring waist in a few inchs ?

[valerie1929]

on 6/6/2009 i want to take waist in on both side about an inch iknow you can use elastic button hole tape but i cant remeber when you cut waist to insert and how long to make each piece of elastic. does any one know what iam trying to find out. appreciate some help