You won't find a fabric called Stretch in stores, but you can come across this word many times as an addition to other names. For example, stretch jeans, stretch satin, stretch chiffon, etc. This prefix gives a unique characteristic feature to the material and is not a separate type.
Description and characteristics
What is stretch fabric (Strech Tkan)? This is a property of the material that gives it elasticity, helps the product to sit more comfortably on the figure, stretching to the desired size. When adding substances such as elastane, spandex and lycra to any natural or synthetic fiber, the desired material with the above characteristics is obtained. And how elastic the product will be depends on the percentage of added substances. Usually it is from 1 to 30%.
Please note! Stretch jersey fabric has the property of returning to its previous dimensions, preventing overstretching. The fiber can stretch only in one direction, or in both. This depends on where exactly the materials were added: to the transverse thread of the main fabric or to the grain, or possibly to both.
The characteristics obtained by adding stretch elements only improve the existing properties of the fabric. In general, its quality depends on the base material. If the base is synthetic fiber, it will be inferior in many ways to natural fiber, which has the same or more stretch.
Types and areas of application
Since the stretching ability of stretch depends on the place where the special composition is added, then, based on this, fabrics are divided into two types:
- mono-stretch is when elastane is added to only one thread: weft or warp. In this case, the product stretches only in one direction;
- Bi-stretch is when elastic threads are added in both directions, and the fabric stretches in both directions.
Examples of fabrics with stretch properties:
Stretch jeans can be stretched only in one direction. This is a very dense material, resistant to mechanical damage. Jeans with the addition of elastane and spandex perfectly fit the figure, tightening it.
Poplin stretch is suitable for bed linen, as well as summer clothing. Natural cotton fabric that stretches in one direction.
Oil is a bi-elastic fabric made of viscose with the addition of lycra and polyester. Very strong and durable material, perfectly fits the figure.
Diving is a fabric that is also called "second skin". It stretches well in both directions. It is made of viscose, polyester and lycra. It is most often used in sportswear, as it fits the figure well (like a film) and is highly durable.
Stretch flax is a knitted stretch. If you add elastane to this natural fabric, it stops wrinkling and fits well. It stretches only in one direction.
Stretch silk is usually used for evening wear and stretches well in one direction.
Biflex is translated from English as "stretchable in two directions". A very durable material, used for making swimsuits, sportswear. Absorbs moisture well.
Bengaline is a mono-stretch. The material is similar to silk, but has a more airy effect. It does not wrinkle and retains its shape perfectly.
Stretch velvet is another fabric that is more suitable for festive outfits and looks very rich.
Kulirka is a natural cotton fiber with the addition of lycra. It is used to make clothes for newborns, bi-stretch.
What to sew from stretch satin
Satin is a beautiful material that is mainly used for sewing elegant models: blouses, skirts, trousers, dresses. The addition of elastane to its composition allows it to stretch, fit more tightly to the figure, which ensures an ideal fit. Straight trousers or a skirt, as well as a blouse-shirt will look great in everyday wear. And the shine of satin will allow these things to look great on an evening out. In addition, you will not have to set a filter on the photos, since thanks to the color they turn out very bright.
Stretch satin is very beneficial to use when sewing a dance or stage costume. The material is inexpensive, but looks very bright on stage, has a huge range of colors with the addition of shine, which looks very impressive in the spotlight. In addition, it stretches perfectly and fits the figure, whether it is a rib or a smooth surface, which helps to bring to life any ideas of the costume designer.
Please note! Another area of application of stretch satin is underwear. Shiny smooth fiber in combination with various lace gives special lightness, playfulness and luxury to its owners, and the addition of elastane allows to achieve figure correction and tightening.
Very often stretch knitwear is used for sewing decorative bags, lining boxes, making hair accessories, jewelry, decorating finished products, and also as a lining in expensive leather or fur products.
Rules for the care of stretch materials
Of course, the rules for caring for stretch fabric depend on the main fiber in the composition. But there are universal rules:
- such items should be washed in warm water no hotter than 30°C;
- ironing should also be done at medium temperatures, excluding steaming;
- avoid strong mechanical impact, do not wring out when spinning, otherwise the fabric may lose its elasticity;
- It is better to dry clothes in natural conditions, away from heating devices;
- Do not use bleach or other chemicals.
Most often, stretch materials are used in products intended for festive outfits. Proper care and careful handling will allow you to keep such things in a decent form for a long time.
Advantages and disadvantages of stretch fabric
The advantages include the fact that the fabric is not expensive to use, but products made from it look rich and tasteful. They fit the figure perfectly. The material is universal in use, suitable for both clothing and accessories and decor.
The difficulty lies in delicate care. And some types of fabric in combination with stretch should be used with caution in wearing all day, as they do not conduct heat well and can cause discomfort.
Many people are used to the fact that the best fabric is made only from natural fibers. Stretch proves that this is not true. The combination of different fabrics gives a stunning effect, although it requires delicate care.
