Attaching
flat elastic cord to fabric or other materials typically involves sewing or stitching it securely in place. Here's a general guide on how to sew or attach flat elastic cord:
Sewing Flat Elastic Cord:
Prepare the Fabric:
Ensure that the fabric or material where you intend to attach the flat elastic cord is clean, flat, and free of wrinkles or creases.
Measure and Cut the Elastic:
Measure the length of flat elastic cord needed for your project, considering the desired stretch and fit.
Use sharp scissors to cut the elastic to the required length, adding a slight overlap for sewing.
Position the Elastic:
Place the flat elastic cord along the edge or seam of the fabric where you want it to be attached.
Pin the elastic in place along the fabric using straight pins or clips, ensuring that it is evenly distributed and aligned with the fabric edge.
Secure with Pins:
Pin the ends of the elastic to the fabric to prevent them from shifting during sewing. You can also use additional pins or clips along the length of the elastic to hold it securely in place.
Select the Stitching Method:
Choose a suitable stitching method based on the project requirements and the type of fabric you are working with.
Common stitching methods for attaching flat elastic cord include straight stitching, zigzag stitching, and stretch stitching.
Set Up the Sewing Machine:
Thread the sewing machine with a matching thread color and select the appropriate stitch length and width settings.
Use a stretch or ballpoint needle, especially when working with elastic fabrics, to prevent skipped stitches and fabric damage.
Sew Along the Edge:
Position the fabric under the sewing machine needle, aligning the edge of the fabric with the edge of the elastic cord.
Sew along the edge of the elastic cord, stitching through both the elastic and the fabric using the selected stitching method.
Maintain even tension on the fabric and elastic to ensure a smooth and secure seam.
Backstitch at the Ends:
Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure the stitches and prevent unraveling.
Trim any excess thread and remove the straight pins or clips once the stitching is complete.
Press and Finish:
Press the seam with an iron to flatten and set the stitches, taking care not to melt or damage the elastic cord.
Trim any loose threads and inspect the seam for quality and durability.
By following these steps, you can sew or attach flat elastic cord securely to fabric or other materials, providing stretch and flexibility for various sewing and crafting projects. Adjust the sewing technique and tension settings based on the specific requirements of your project and the materials you are working with.