Elastic Webbing on Underwear and Bras
Many underwear and bras have webbing made of elastic. This webbing helps to keep the garment in place and provides support. The webbing can be sewn into the garment or attached with hooks. It is important to choose the right type of webbing for your project to ensure a comfortable and supportive fit.
There are two types of webbing: woven and non-woven. Woven webbing is made of interlacing yarns that are tightly knit together. Non-woven webbing is made of a single piece of fabric that has been cut into strips.
Webbing comes in a variety of widths, from 1/4" to 2". The most common widths for underwear and bras are 1/2" and 3/4".
When choosing webbing, it is important to consider the stretch factor. The stretch factor is the percentage of elongation at break. This is important because you want the webbing to be able to stretch, but you don't want it to stretch too much. The webbing should also be strong enough to support the garment.
The amount of stretch will depend on the type of elastic used. There are three types of elastic: latex, rubber, and polyurethane. Latex is the most common type of elastic used in webbing. It has a high stretch factor and is very strong. Rubber has a lower stretch factor than latex, but it is still strong. Polyurethane has the lowest stretch factor of the three, but it is very elastic.
When choosing webbing, you also need to consider the weight of the fabric. Webbing is available in a variety of weights, from light to heavy. The weight of the webbing will determine how much support it can provide.
Lightweight webbing is best for garments that are not very tight-fitting or don't need a lot of support. Medium-weight webbing is good for most garments. Heavy-weight webbing is best for garments that are very tight-fitting or need a lot of support.
You also need to consider the color of the webbing. Webbing is available in a variety of colors, so you can choose one that matches the fabric of your garment. You can also choose webbing that contrasts with the fabric to create an interesting look.
When attaching webbing to a garment, you can use a sewing machine or hand sew it. If you are using a sewing machine, be sure to use the correct needle and thread. For webbing that is 1/2" wide or less, you will need to use a size 8 or 9 needle. For webbing that is 3/4" wide or more, you will need to use a size 10 or 11 needle.
Be sure to test the webbing on a scrap of fabric before attaching it to the garment. This will help you determine the correct tension and stitch length.
Webbing can be an important part of underwear and bras. It helps to keep the garment in place and provides support. When choosing webbing, be sure to consider the stretch factor, weight, and color. With a little bit of planning, you can create a garment that is both comfortable and stylish.