Measuring elastic for casing involves assessing the amount of stretch that a casing material provides. The method typically used is called a “percentage of stretch test”. The test works by measuring a sample of the casing material and then stretching it until it reaches a predetermined distance.
At this point, you measure the stretched length and compare it to the original length. The amount of stretch is then expressed as a percentage relative to the original length. For instance, if a material sample stretched twice its original length, then it would have a 200% stretch.
Measuring the elasticity of the casing material is important because it helps to determine the overall strength of the material and how well it will hold up to wear and tear. Elastomeric materials can be used for all types of casing, including those used for plumbing, electrical wiring and pipe insulation.
How much smaller should elastic be?
The size of elastic you should use will depend on the project you’re working on. If you’re using elastic for clothing, then you should measure the circumference of the area where the elastic will be placed and then subtract 1-2 inches in order to get your desired size.
For example, if waistband is 35″, the elastic size should be approximately between 33” to 34”.
When using elastic for home decor, such as to bind a quilt or cushion cover, you should calculate the total circumference of the finished item and again subtract 1-2 inches to determine the correct piece of elastic.
Remember to always pull the elastic slightly while measuring as you want it to have a snug fit.
In some cases, you might also have to consider the thickness and texture of the elastic. If a project requires a very tight fit, then you might want to use thin elastic. Thicker elastic can be used for stretchier and more comfortable designs.
Along with this, some elastics have more texture, which will affect the overall fit.
Overall, it is important to carefully measure the area where the elastic will be placed and adjust the size depending on the design of the project you’re working on.
What is the ratio of elastic to fabric?
The ratio of elastic to fabric is completely dependent on the project and the type of fabric being used. Generally speaking, if you’re using a lightweight fabric such as cotton lawn, you should go with a 1:1 ratio of elastic to fabric, meaning that if you’re using 1 yard of fabric, you would use 1 yard of elastic.
For heavier fabrics such as denim, corduroy and heavier weights of canvas, you would use a 2:1 ratio, meaning that you would use 2 yards of elastic for every 1 yard of fabric. The key is to ensure that the fabric and elastic are the same weight or that the elastic is slightly heavier than the fabric.
This will help make sure the elastic has enough stretch and strength when gathered to the fabric.
How wide should waistband elastic be?
The width of waistband elastic can vary based on personal preference and the type of garment being constructed. For those making their own clothing, the width of waistband elastic should generally be 1-2 inches wide.
However, for knits, a wider elastic can be used for more comfort and stability. It is also important to consider the type of elastic when working with waistbands since regular/non-roll elastic may be preferred over round elastic in some cases.
Additionally, if you are looking to add a bit of extra flair or stability, a narrow ribbed elastic can also be used. Ultimately, selecting the right type and width of elastic depends on the project, the materials being used, and one’s own preferences.
How do I know how much elastic to use in my waistband?
It is important to consider the fit, comfort, and durability of a waistband when deciding how much elastic to use. Generally speaking, a wider, more substantial waistband will use more elastic than a narrow one.
For example, a typical legging waistband can use 1 inch or less of elastic, whereas a wide waistband for a skirt or pair of pants may use up to 2.5 or 3 inches of elastic.
When measuring for elastic, remember to measure around the hips rather than the waist. The hips are the widest part of the body and the elastic will be stretched to fit correctly. Additionally, remember to allow extra space; elastic should be able to stretch at least 1.
5 times its length. So, if you are measuring around your hips with a tape measure, add 1-2 inches on top of that as your elastic measurement.
Finally, keep in mind different types of elastic will behave differently and have different qualities. Wider elastic, such as fold-over elastic, will stretch more and provide more room in the waistband.
Narrower elastic will provide a more snug fit, but may not be as comfortable or durable. Choosing the right type of elastic for your project can make all the difference in the overall fit and comfort of your garment.
How much should I stretch elastic when sewing?
When sewing with elastic, the amount of stretch you should provide depends on the type and use of the elastic. Generally, the most common type of elastic raw edge or narrowfold elastic should be stretched approximately 20 – 25%.
This amount of stretch should be enough to keep the fabric form-fitting while still allowing the fabric to move when in use. For more supportive applications like waistbands or shoulder straps, an amount of stretch between 30-50% may be necessary.
When considering how much to stretch elastic when sewing, also take into account how much stretch the fabric you are using requires. Depending on its weight and structure, some fabrics may need more or less elasticity when stitched together.
Additionally, how the elastic is sewn will also affect the final amount of stretch provided. Flatlock or zigzag stitching can allow for more stretch than straight stitching.
How much fabric do I need for an elastic waist skirt?
The amount of fabric you need for an elastic waist skirt will depend on the desired length of the skirt, the waist size, and if you plan to add a lining or not. Generally, the waist measurement for an elastic waist skirt should be about 2-4 inches larger than your actual waist size.
If you are sewing a lined skirt, you will need twice the amount of fabric as an unlined skirt.
For an average size skirt, you will need between 1.5 to 2.5 yards depending on the length of the skirt. If you plan to make a longer skirt, you may need up to 3 yards of fabric. For a mini skirt, you will need 1-1.
5 yards of fabric.
Additionally, it is important to consider the width of the fabric when you are calculating. If the fabric you are using has a standard width of 44-45 inches, you should add an extra amount of fabric to your calculations.
As a general rule, add 1/4 to 1/2 yards of fabric for each size of the skirt if the fabric has a 44-45 inch width.
Once you have calculated the amount of fabric, it is also important to remember to account for the seam allowance, or the extra space needed along the edges of the fabric for stitching. For woven fabrics, typically a 5/8” seam allowance is used.
For stretch fabrics you should add a 1/2” or 3/4” seam allowance.
Finally, keep in mind that yardage requirements can vary depending on the pattern you are using. If you are using a commercial pattern, you should refer to the yardage requirements in the pattern instructions.
How are elastic bands measured?
Elastic bands are typically measured based on their diameter and length. For example, a standard-size metal elastic band measures 8 inches in length and 1/8 of an inch in diameter. In addition, elastic bands also come in a variety of colors and sizes so they can fit different types of applications.
For example, a small black elastic band might measure 2 inches in length and 1/16th of an inch in diameter. Elastic bands are also used to measure certain garments, such as socks and underwear, where they are placed around the waist of the person and then fitted to ensure a proper fit.
When measuring elastic bands in this way, the circumference of the elastic is measured using a tape measure. For example, a large elasticated waist band might measure 40 inches in circumference.
What is casing stitch?
Casing stitch is a type of hand sewing stitch that is used to finish the inner edge of a hem or to hold a drawstring. It is a similar stitch to a running stitch but has smaller and closer stitches in order to make a secure casing.
When creating a casing stitch, the needle should enter and exit the fabric through the same hole for each stitch. This helps to make a secure casing so that the drawstring does not slip out. The number of stitches that make up a casing stitch depends on the width of the fabric and the desired outcome.
A casing stitch can be used to add a nice decorative touch to a garment as well as being a functional stitch.