5 Elastic Fabric Types: What is Elastic Made?

Certain fabrics are not stretchable. After they’ve been stretched, they become distorted and become damaged. With the elastic component, your clothing objects can be given a slight bounce and then get back to their original form.

What exactly is elastic made of? Elastic is made of latex and rubber that are other materials with flexible properties in the middle. These materials are joined in a way that the elastic property performs the best and does not hinder its intended use.

For more information on elastic fabrics keep reading our article. It will give you the names of these fabric types and what makes them tick. Once you’re done, you will probably know more about elastic fabrics more than you were hoping to learn.

Elastic fabric 1.: Neoprene – it’s an artificial rubber compound that is utilized in diving wet suits for scuba divers and other accessories for fashion.

What is Elastic Fabric?

Elastic fabric is made up of different materials that possess elastic properties as well as flexible properties. The individual strands of each fabric are joined to make a fantastic elastic fabric that maintains the shape of its fabric even after stretching.

There is elastic material in many women’s intimate garments like the girdles. Also, it is present in suspenders, belts as well as waistbands, and other garments. In addition, lots of fashion accessories are elastic to them.

Elastic fabrics can also be used for fitted sheets, bed skirting, or bed ruffles. They can be found in almost any other place where you require flexible fabric. Additionally, elastic yarns or fabrics are a great way to make jewelry items for those who appreciate the idea of creativity and innovation.

Elastic Fabric 2:Latex is made of rubber, but the compound is difficult to sew, and it’s hard to wear. It’s not breathable which means that you could get hot if you wear it. Purchase latex fabric here

What is Elastic Made Out Of?

Two of the major sources of elastic material are latex and rubber. The source of rubber is the rubber tree and is extremely elastic. In actual fact, the stretchy nature of rubber and latex is very sought-after for certain items of clothing.

The water-proof or resistant properties of latex and rubber is an additional feature that makes it an indispensable component of some clothes. The issue with latex and rubber is that it’s not the most comfortable material to wear.

It is not advisable to dry clean rubber garments also. The chemicals that are used in the process of dry cleaning can harm or destroy the fabric. When elastic is paired with polyester or any other type of thread typically, it’s at the heart of the structure and its responsibilities are limited to bringing clothing items in its initial form.

Elastic fabric 3.: Spandex- this elastic material expands up to 300-400 percent of its initial size. Its elastic properties are due to the elastine-based compound that is inside its structure. Purchase spandex right here.

How Elastic Fabric is Made

The bands of latex, rubber, and other stretchy materials are weaved together to create the most stretchy material. The fabric is then paired with other stretchy materials for the clothing to stretch.

The stretch range of elastic fabric is able to be stretched in two directions. The first is the two-way stretch which allows the fabric to stretch just in one direction. This could be transversely or lengthwise.

The second method of stretching elastic is in a 4-way. The fabric is able to stretch crosswise and lengthwise. You can also stretch the fabric sideway or across the selvages.

With this ability, stretchable clothes are sought-after especially when children are at home. The elastic nature protects the clothing from stretching out of shape and becoming damaged after just a few wears.

Fabric stretch 4: Knits- Most knits stretch in two directions but there are some exceptions that allow them to stretch 4 ways. This ability to stretch is what makes it a favorite fabric to make clothing. It is available in various kinds. Purchase stretch fabric here >>>

Elastic Material For Clothing

There are many options in this category. The usage of elastic is endless as many garments can benefit from having elastic for their construction. Different types of elastic serve different purposes.

There are pajamas underwear, lingerie, and pajamas which are soft as it is directly into contact with the skin. Baby elastic, which is commonly used in baby clothing. This type of elastic is heat-resistant and has plenty of stretches. It usually returns the clothing to its original form.

There is also elastic for swimming wear. It is not only resistant to heat, it also can stretch up to 3 or 4 times its length. It also wards off damage caused by chlorine, saltwater, and sunblock. You also have sports elastic that is resistant to sweat and washings. It’s tough since it needs to keep the original form.

Braided elastic is typically a long life. It’s also designed to withstand heavy usage. It is comfortable and soft. cord elastic is used to make clothing and jewelry that does not stretch as much.

Then, there’s drawstring elastic and buttonhole. These are great for pregnant clothes, while the latter is ideal to accommodate a larger waist.

Fabric with elastic 5: Spandex blends are a lengthy list of elastic material that is used in fashion. It’s popular because the blends work great.

When Was Elastic Invented for Clothing?

As with cotton, elastic has an extensive story. While that history isn’t completely understood, its use dates through the ages and has seen a lengthy time. In the past, American Indians used rubber long before Columbus was even born. The word they used for the substance can be translated as a weeping tree.

The Mayans were mixing the juices of various vines to make an early version of an elastic bandage that tied various items. However, for the modern invention of elastic, it is only necessary to go back 200 years.

Thomas Hancock is credited for inventing elastic around 1820. The invention began with closures made of elastic for gloves, as well as elastic for suspenders, shoes, and socks. Through his experiments, he realized that he was wasting way too much rubber and he came up with the masticator machine to save this rubber.

It isn’t known who was the first person to invent the band made of rubber, however, it was developed around the middle of the 19th century. century. in 1923 William Spencer was the first to produce rubber bands on a mass scale. In 1923, it is Charles Macintosh who found that coal naphtha could be effective in melting Indian rubber. This resulted in him being the first to create waterproof clothing.

How to Weaken Elastic

The method for elastic to become weaker is stretching it beyond its stretch capabilities. When the elastic reaches the point at which it is no longer able to stretch, it’s insufficient and ineffective to function as good quality. The elastic will not perform the way it did in its initial size.

The best way to stretch elastic beyond that limit is by stretching it on an ironing surface. After that, use the iron to create the heat. The iron will heat up and it will stretch, and then let it cool. It could be stretched beyond its capacity to function as it’s supposed to.

The same method applies to waistband elastics too. Another option is stretching the elastic and stretching it out for a few days or.

Elastic Fabric Types

We’ve already outlined the five main elastic fabrics you will come across in your sewing career. The only fabric we didn’t discuss in particulars was the spandex-based blends. This is due to the fact that there are plenty of these.

Polyester and cotton are two blends. The latter requires just three to five percent spandex in order to be comfortable and stretchy. There is also the velvet and satin mix. Both styles can be used to create attractive clothing items.

Nylon can be paired with spandex and it is often used in sports bras, swimwear cycling shorts, cycling bras, as well as other clothing for activewear. Rayon and spandex create an elegant look when paired together. It’s a stretch that keeps you from becoming uncomfortable.

Stretch denim makes jeans, etc. extremely comfortable, as cotton poplin and spandex blend for a range of clothes. Vinyl and fake leather blend with spandex to make belts, furniture for homes, etc.

The honorable mentions go to stretch lace Powernet, acetate/spandex Tencel/spandex and linen/spandex. There are many spandex blends that aren’t included within this selection.

Elastic Cotton

This is an expensive fabric to make use of. It’s more expensive than polyester elastic or similar synthetic blends. It is for this reason that you must be mindful regarding how you utilize it. There’s a chance of using this fabric, which when used incorrectly could result in a costly loss.

Cotton elastic is extremely absorbent and extremely soft. It should feel nice on your body once you put it on. However, if you sew it before washing it you are at a possibility of it shrinking and destroying it for future use.

This fabric can be used to make neckwear, pants, or swimwear as well as sweaters. It’s also great for bedspreads, curtains, tablecloths, comforters, and many more applications. You can also machine wash or hand wash it, or even send it to dry cleaners. There are many options to keep the fabric cleaned.

After cleaning, it is able to drape well and doesn’t lose its ability to absorb moisture.

Nylon Stretch Elastic

The fabric can be used for a variety of applications, but its main use is in the marine and outdoor areas of the world. The nylon elastic braided is excellent at preventing fires, and is utilized in a wide range of automobile areas.

In addition, stretch elastic nylon is extremely robust. It could be the most durable of elastic blends. It’s so durable that it is often used in extreme activities such as boating as well as other outdoor activities.

It is machine washable but it doesn’t sink. After it has been made, the price is high but it’s very durable and suitable for make use of. Based on the type of nylon elastic that you’re looking for the stretch capabilities vary between 85% and 120 percent.

If you’re looking for a durable fabric then you should consider this material to get your sewing task completed. Get the nylon elastic from this page >>

Polyester Elastic

It is a highly sought-after fabric due to two reasons. It is the most flexible and also the most affordable. These two aspects are extremely attractive. It is so well-known and practical that you’ll see it in all healthcare or medical practices. Additionally, it is utilized in the majority of garments and wash ranges.

The toughness of this fabric implies that it is extremely difficult to shrink. It also resists bleach and mildew. It is a suitable fabric to use as frequently as you can. The fabric has an evaporation element that is present in this fabric.

The positive is that the melting point won’t be reached until the temperature is at 450 degrees F. The melting point isn’t a major issue but prolonged exposure to sunlight will result in the fabric weakening and losing force.

Be cautious with this fabric if it’s not too cold out. Based on the type of elastic made from polyester you will get between 110% and 125% stretch from it.

Some Final Words

Elastic is an excellent option to mix with your most loved fabrics. It’s not just good for the longevity of your clothes and durability, but it can maintain their shape for a lengthy time. The elastic is available in many shapes, from spandex to latex, to neoprene and all these forms contribute to extremely comfortable clothes.

The only elastic substance that’s uncomfortable in clothes is rubber. This is why it’s used for specific purposes like diving, scuba diving, and other similar activities. However, regardless of how you utilize elastic, you will get an excellent fabric ingredient that is absolutely nothing to improve your clothing.