Attach Elastic
Disclosure: This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Clicking on links, and purchasing products, may result in the seller paying us compensation - at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links are in green.
Also see:
Notes From The Workroom & Trail
10 Easy Sewing Projects
10 Simple Stress Busters
Clothing Patterns
Properly Attached Elastic
Properly attached elastic will create a nice fit around a leg opening of a gymnastic suit or swimsuit. Elastic allows movement, while keeping the garment in place. Elastic can be "loose", such as when it is pulled through the waistband of pajamas, or stitched to the edge of the garment, such as the leg opening of a swimsuit, leotard or pair of panties.
I have never been able to find store-bought panties or swimsuit bottoms that fit properly around the legs. I think they just cut the back in a general "V" shape and hope it fits and covers well enough. Unfortunately, it does not. This is why more and more women are sewing their own swimsuits and lingerie. Mass production simply doesn't work with something this fitted.
Swimsuit Or Leotard Leg Elastic
Use 3/8" swimsuit elastic. Cut a length of elastic according to your pattern instructions. The pattern I use sets a 1:1 size ratio on the front of the leg and 3/4 the measurement of the back of the leg opening (marked by notches on my patterns). In other words, the elastic length across the front exactly equals the length across the front of the leg opening, but the elastic that stretches across the back is only 3/4 of the distance across the leg opening on the back. This means that the leg opening will fit flat across the front of the leg and will be slightly gathered across the back. Your pattern might differ in how it is marked, so follow directions on your pattern.
Cut the elastic to the appropriate length according to your pattern instructions (be sure to allow 1/2" for overlap of elastic ends). Stitch the ends together to create a circle.
With garment right side out, pin the elastic to the wrong side of the garment's leg opening, matching pins to notches, and lining up elastic with outer, cut edge of opening. Use one hand to hold the garment, and the other to stretch the elastic as it is fed through the sewing machine, elastic side up.
Use a zig-zag stitch to stitch the elastic into place. Be sure that the stitch encloses the edge of the elastic (in diagram on right the zig-zag goes to the outer edge of the elastic).
When the elastic is in place, turn the outer edge under. Pin into place. Stitch the hem using a zig-zag or straight stitch, stretching firmly as you go. This creates a nicely hemmed edge.
NOTE: You can use this same method for the arm opening and neckline, depending on the pattern style. Check your pattern instructions.
Waist Elastic
Waist elastic allows for the difference between the waist measurement and the hip measurement if an opening (such as side or front zipper) is not used. Without it, you could not pull the pants up over your hips. Our pajama series teaches how to create an elastic waistband. We also provide instructions for adding a decorative cuff.
For our free pajama pattern series, go to: FREE Pajama Pattern: Lesson 3.
Sewing Lessons
Protect your lap from hot or cold dishes. Soft yarn and perfect size. Can also use for blankets or scarves.
Learn how to add detail with free motion embroidery using a regular sewing machine and darning foot.
Learn how to turn a simple tee shirt pattern into a robe with buttons and pockets - or a dress! One pattern - many uses.
Learn how to use an applique pressing sheet to create intricate applique. Free pattern provided.
Choose the correct sewing machine for your needs. Learn about features and functions. Free checklist to download.
Learn to crazy quilt! Hot pad, quilt block, or decorative pillow block. Fun way to use fabric scraps.
Shortening the length of pants is easy, once you know the rules. I will show you how!
Shamrock applique pattern. Super easy! Use on pillows, kitchen, or clothing items.
Learn how to attach elastic. Properly attached elastic will create a nice fit around a leg opening of a gymnastic suit or swimsuit.
Sewing lesson: learn how to work with nap, fabric direction, and plaid prints. Align plaids so they match up correctly.
Learn reverse applique. Quilt, hot pad or pillow. The top layer is cut away to reveal an underlying layer. Create a beautiful, layered valentine.
Learn two methods for sewing mitered corners for cushion covers, tote bags, mattress covers.
Applique lesson and pattern. Learn how to use fusible web. Create a spring wall hanging.
Learn the art of huck weaving - also known as Swedish weaving. Use inexpensive huck toweling to create beautifully decorated items.
Lesson 4. Learn how to sew a cuff and properly attach it to a pant leg. Free instructions for pajama pants.
Lesson 2. Learn the correct method for tracing an existing pair of pants to create a new sewing pattern. .
Lesson 1: Create Custom Pattern. Total of 4 lessons including making and altering a pattern, add elastic or drawstring waistband, sewing the PJ pants.
Articles & Tips
Entertainment is purchased in the city; it is provided by nature in the wilds. Being outdoors, in natural environments, is important for our physical and emotional wellbeing.
Hygge: emotional wellbeing, content, cozy. Our favorite projects for creating hygge in your home.
How to choose the right e-bike. Biking in the fall is magical. Perfect temps and gorgeous color. Comfort and safety are key to enjoyment, however.
Autumn - a transition between summer and winter. By watching animals in the wild, and following nature’s cycles, we improve our health and well-being.
Christmas eve is coming! Need some great homemade gift ideas that you can fit into your busy schedule? Look no further!
DIY Wedding. From plans to putting together your dream team to making it all come together. My full wedding guide and links to my projects.
I hiked Beacon Rock after developing plantar fasciitis - with no problems. PT and the right shoes made it happen. Tips & tricks to help you stay on the trails.
Keep a life balance of social connection even at a long distance by establishing a virtual book club. Follow our posts.
The 2023 summer hiking season is fast approaching. Time to get in shape! Tips for the trail.
Our best articles and sewing projects to inspire and assist on your journey to downsize, organize, and make the best use of your space.
Our ten most popular super simple sewing projects. Each is designed to teach a new skill.
Exchange the endless tidying up of your home for hiking, sewing, crafting - or following your own true passions.
This year, we decided to obtain a permit to get a tree from the mountains. What was to be a relaxing day in nature turned out to be quite the adventure!
The Big Dark in the Pacific Northwest is a peaceful, reflective time that runs from October through spring. Weather is mild, foggy, dark, and rainy - nourishing. We move our focus to indoor projects during this cozy time of year.
October additions to Spruce and Fjell, including a new, custom sideboard exterior table with full instructions, plus beautiful fall bouquet.
Oh fun - moving our old website (CraftAndFabricLinks) to our new site. Tons of work - but it will be worth all the effort.
Learn Intarsia and Tapestry crochet. Bring Hygge into your home with this cozy, Scandinavian minimalist Christmas tree design. Use for wash cloths, pillows, hot pads.