How to Sew With Spandex

Spandex fabric has several advantages.

Spandex is a stretchy fabric made of cotton and nylon developed by DuPont. The flexible material has some advantages over a basic cotton fabric.It does not wrinkle and can easily be packed for vacation or a business trip. The material does not fade as quickly as cotton fabrics in the washing machine. Spandex is also used in a wide variety of fitness apparel because it is comfortable and provides moisture control. However, the stretch factor does pose some issues for tailors and seamstresses.

Instructions

1. Lay the Spandex fabric flat while making alterations. Do not stretch the flexible fabric when either cutting or sewing it. Otherwise you will have an uneven cut or seam.

2. Purchase a serger style sewing machine. This type of sewing machine works with a triple or quadruple stitch. The serger machine automatically locks the hem in place using an extra securing stitch around the outside of hem. For flexible materials such as spandex and lycra, a three-thread narrow stitch is recommended for durability. This will give your hems the ability to stretch with the spandex.

3. Use a zigzag stitch to sew together pieces of spandex with a regular sewing machine if you do not have a serger machine. This will allow the material to stretch without snapping the threads.

References

• Nicodemus' Fursuit Pages; Lycra/Spandex
• Unity Sports - Rash Vests; Frequently Asked Questions
• Serger Questions and Answers