Elastics, Tapes and cords - Its Types

Elastics:

Elastic is available in several different types and widths. The type of elastic to choose will depend on whether it will be used in a casing or stitched directly to a garment.

a. Braided elastic:

This is recommended only for casing because it narrows when stretched.

b. Woven elastic:

It stays the same width when stretched. Thus it can be stitched directly to a garment or used in a casing.

c. Elastic thread:

This is very thin covered elastic core used for shirring. Since it is wound in bobbin for shirring it is called bobbin elastic.

d. Special purpose elastic:

These are available for pyamas, lungies and swim-wear.

Read the label when purchasing any type of elastic to be sure that it will serve the correct purpose.

Tapes and cords:

Tapes and cords can be functional or decorative. They can be used to reinforce a seam, cover a fabric edge, or create a special design on the outside of a garment. Tapes and cords are available in variety of types, widths and colors. The Tapes may be made out of silk, cotton and other synthetic fibers. These may be thin or thick. Some are slightly stretchable others are not. They may be woven, knitted, braided or made of lace. The choice of which type of tape or trim to use depends upon how it will be used in a garment.

For areas where you want to prevent stretching, select a firm, non-stretchable tape or cord. Some of the common tapes and cords are:

a. Seam Tape:

Woven tape or lace used to finish hem and facing edges.

b. Bias Tape:

This is single or double-fold tape used for binding curved or straight edges and for casings.

c. Twill Tape:

This is firmly woven tape used for reinforcing seams.

d. Piping:

A narrow, corded bias strip of fabric that is inserted into a seam for a decorative trim. 

e. Hem facing:

Wide bias tape or lace used for facing hems and binding edges.

f. Ribbing Tape:

A stretchable knitted band used to finish a neckline, armhole, sleeve, leg or waistline.

Velcro:

These have two tape strips, one with a looped nap surface and the other with a hooked nap. When pressed together, surfaces grip and remain locked until pulled apart. These are used on cuffs, plackets, mosquito nets and other such items. This is a good substitute for other closure in home decorating, as with upholstery. These tapes come in sew-on, iron-on and stick-on forms. These are usually made of Nylon and are available in yards or metres.

Buckles:

These features are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials (Plastic, Iron, Brass, Steel, etc.). However, there are only two types of buckles-buckles with prongs and buckles without prongs. For a buckle with a prong, eyelets must be used. Ready-made metal eyelets can be applied with special plier or attaching tool, or eyelets can be hand sewn using a buttonhole stitch. Buckles can be purchased separately or in kits.