In this article, we explain everything you need to know about calculating the elasticity of a stretch fabric: why it's useful and how to do it.
Why Calculate the Elasticity of a Stretch Fabric?
When you're working with a stretchy fabric, such as jersey, there are two main reasons to know its elasticity.
First, this will help youchoose the right pattern for sewing this fabric.
In fact, sewing patterns for stretch fabrics are specifically designed to accommodate a certain degree of elasticity. It is therefore essential to know the degree of elasticity to determine whether the pattern-fabric combination you have in mind will work.
At Majam, the elasticity of stretch fabrics is always specified on the product page, and the recommended elasticity for our stretch clothing patterns is also always indicated.
The second reason to know the elasticity of your fabric has to do with sewing it on the machine. That’s right! A fabric’s elasticity can influence the type of stitch you should use. For example, stretch fabrics may require more flexible stitches or different thread tensions to prevent the seams from breaking when the fabric is stretched. We always recommend testing on a scrap of fabric to see if your stitch holds up.
At Majam, the sewing guides that come with our patterns tell you whether you need to adjust your stitch length.
How do you calculate this elasticity?
Now let's learn how to calculate the elasticity of a stretchy fabric (such as jersey). We'll tell you right away—it's super easy!
Step 1
Make two marks 10 cm apart on the fabric.
Step 2
Pull the fabric horizontally and measure the new distance between these two marks. Let's call this distance N. In our example, N = 16 cm.
Step 3
Perform the following calculation:(N - 10) × 10
In our example, we have: (16 – 10) × 10 = 60
So our fabric has 60% stretch!
Discover our stretch fabrics
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Cotton jersey – vermilion red
from 14,90€ Choose options This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page -
Cotton jersey – terracotta
from 14,90€ Choose options This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page -
100% Cotton T-Shirt Jersey – Ecru
from 19,00€ Choose options This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page -
Cotton jersey – bronze
from 14,90€ Choose options This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page -
Sailor Shirt – Cotton and Hemp
from 22,90€ Choose options This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page -
Heavy viscose jersey – fuchsia
from 15,00€ Choose options This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page -
- 50%
Heavy viscose jersey – navy blue
from15,00€7,50€ Choose options This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page -
T-shirt Jersey – Black
from 19,00€ Choose options This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page -
T-shirt-style jersey – navy blue
from 19,00€ Choose options This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page