4 Way Stretch Fabric

4 Way Stretch Fabric

Stretch fabrics are a game changer when it comes to making clothing.4 way stretch fabric Not only are they incredibly soft and breathable, but they can also conform to the shape of your body for a form-fitting look that moves with you. These fabrics are extremely popular in activewear, but can be used for more casual clothes as well. This article will explore 4-way stretch fabric, and how to identify it when purchasing fabric online or at a local store.

The 4-way stretch fabric is made from a blend of fabrics, typically polyester and spandex.4 way stretch fabric The polyester lends the fabric its strength, while the elastane offers the stretchiness. The higher the percentage of elastane, the more stretchy the fabric will be. Some fabrics naturally have some stretch, such as bamboo and silk, which only require a small amount of elastane to really make them stretchy. However, wool and cotton will need a larger percentage of elastane in order to stretch at all.

When shopping for 4 way stretch fabric, it is important to check both the horizontal and vertical directions.4 way stretch fabric The fabric recommendations in your pattern should indicate if you need two or four way stretch. If your pattern calls for 50% stretch in both directions, then you will want a fabric with that level of stretch. To figure out the amount of stretch in a piece of fabric, grab a ruler and lay it down on a flat surface. Measure out a 4-6 inch strip without stretching it, then stretch the fabric in both directions and compare it to the non stretched strip. The number you get in the horizontal direction is the amount of stretch you will have in your finished garment, and the number you get in the vertical direction is the amount of stretch that will run across the width of the fabric.

Choosing 4-way stretch fabric is very important when sewing a garment that will need to be flexible and move with you.4 way stretch fabric It is also essential when creating activewear or exercise equipment, such as leggings, yoga pants, workout clothes and more. 4-way stretch fabric will provide a comfortable fit that won't get bunched up or lose its shape while moving with you.

Choosing the right type of fabric for your project will ensure that it will turn out perfectly. Before stitching, it is recommended that you wash your fabric to eliminate any chemicals or other substances on the surface and allow the fabric to expand if needed. This will help your final creation to be as large or as small as you would like and ensure that it will be able to recover from any stretching. It is also a good idea to iron your fabric before stitching it in order to prevent the edges from curling. This will keep them from interfering with your thread and will allow the edges to lie flat while you are sewing. Lastly, a good pair of scissors is recommended to help with any cutting that will need to be done.

Tags:bi stretch fabric | equestrian fabric