Elastic in Apparel: Types and Application

Elastic is an expandable sewing material used as a closure and shaping element. It does two things: expand when stretched and recover to its original size when released. Elastics come in varying amounts of stretch and must be matched to the opening size and the tightness of fit expected. Here are the materials, the four types, and how they're applied.

Material

Fiber content is the major factor in an elastic's longevity, stretch, performance, and care. Elastics are made from rubber and spandex.