How to…Measure the amount a fabric stretches
Often patterns will give the advice to choose a fabric which will stretch by a specific amount or stretch percentage. Here’s a handy guide to help you measure the stretch percentage of your fabrics. This works for woven stretch fabrics too!
How to measure stretch percentage amount
Some styles require a specific amount of stretch in the fabric used – for instance, leggings which require a tight fit but also need a fabric that will withstand a lot of stretching. Many websites now provide stretch percentages for their fabrics which is very helpful, but if they don’t here’s a handy guide of how to measure and check it yourself.
To measure the stretch percentage of any fabric, take a cut edge of a piece measuring at least 30cm wide ideally and place 1 pins, 10cm apart along the fabric edge.
Holding one pin at “0”, stretch the other mark across a ruler.
If it stretches to 13cm easily it has 30% stretch, 15cm would be 50% stretch etc.
I hope you find this tip helpful next time your pattern calls for a specific stretch amount in the fabric.
Now you know a bit more about stretch fabrics why not try making any of our jersey fabric styles including the 3 by 3 Tees or the Cosy Jersey Tunic and Dress.
Find out more about jersey fabrics
…and how to sew with them
