How to Measure Elastic
Elastic is a handy fabric commonly used in many clothes items. When creating your own pants, skirts, shorts, or non-clothes items calling for elastic, measuring it properly can mean the difference between a blouse that fits and a craft that sags. By spending a few moments at the beginning of your project to measure the elastic and read the packaging it came in, you can eliminate a lot of headaches. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Read the packaging your elastic came in. Look for compatible fabrics and appropriate uses for the elastic. Ensure that your project is one of the approved uses for the elastic.
-
2
Test your elastic before incorporating it into your project by gently stretching it. Use a measuring tape to segment off a 6-inch portion of elastic.Confirm that there is resistance and bounce-back in the elastic. When you stretch it out about 6 inches, you should feel resistance and when you release, it should snap back into place. If it does not, you need to purchase different elastic.
-
-
3
Remeasure your elastic with the measuring tape after stretching it several times. It should still measure exactly 6 inches. If it does not, purchase a different brand of elastic and repeat step 2.
-
4
Cut the elastic about 10 percent shorter than the length required by your project. If measuring elastic for a pair of pants with a 40-inch waistline, cut a 36-inch piece of elastic.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Consider using clear elastic in your craft or sewing project so that it blends in to the fabric.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Elastic image by Yuriy Rozanov from Fotolia.com
