In the store, you will see elastics with the same width but different names – knitted, woven, flat. The difference is not just in the type – they behave differently when stretched.
Knitted elastic
It is made by knitting. It is soft, lightweight, and stretches easily. When stretched, it narrows slightly. It is suitable for underwear, children's clothes, cuffs, masks, and lightweight fabrics. Browse the knitted elastics in many colors on 25 m rolls.
Woven elastic
It is woven on a loom – it is denser and more stable. It does not narrow when stretched and does not twist inside a casing. It is the best choice for waistbands on trousers and skirts, sweatpants, and workwear.
Flat elastic
A type of woven elastic with a smooth surface that remains flat even after repeated washing. It is used for waistbands, straps, and accessories.
Comparison
| Knitted | Woven | |
|---|---|---|
| Softness | softer | firmer |
| Does it narrow when stretched | yes | no |
| Twisting | possible | no |
| Suitable for | underwear, cuffs, light clothing | waistbands, sports and work clothing |
How to choose
If the elastic will be inside a waistband casing – use woven. If it will be sewn directly onto soft fabric – use knitted. For wide waistbands (6–10 cm), use a wide woven or knitted elastic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the elastic shrink during washing?
High-quality elastics with Oeko-Tex certification maintain their size and elasticity.
