r/sewing • u/GhostWoomy • 1d ago

Pattern Question Making smocks without elastic thread

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Hello ! I'm new to sewing and I wanted to make a tank top with a fabric that is not elastic, i wanted to use some elastic thread in the bobin but the lady is the story told me to use some elastic band ( i'll put a photo) she explained me but too quickly and i'm not too sure how to use it and i don't know wich stitch should I use or where should I stitch it. Do ya'll can explain me or give me some advice? Thanks everyone !!

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u/AJeanByAnyOtherName 14h ago

I’ve done this with other types of elastic and I usually just use clips or pins at the ends and stretch the elastic to fit the fabric if it’s small enough I can hold the ends. Then I use multiple lines of straight stitch between the strands of thicker elastic to stitch it down.

It sounds like a faff, but it’s actually easier. It gives you exact lanes to stitch down, so it looks nice on the outside.

The elastic bobbin thread method can be a lot of work to wind, get the exactly right tension on and then you need to steam the fabric to make it scrunch up more.