Fold-over elastic is a particular type of elastic tape that is used as a binding elastic in sewing – it has enough width to go over an edge and a dent down the center of the elastic on either sides, which aids in easy folding over fabric edges. I find this unique type of elastic extremely useful in many of my projects.
Uses of Fold over elastic.
There are two things that this elastic does in one go – it serves as elastic and also as a binding tape—the elastic stretches to its double-length.
Finish garment edges
FOE is often used to finish the edges of garments, such as necklines, sleeves, and leg openings in lingerie, swimwear, and athletic wear. It can be used along waistline and sleeve hem edges of blouson tops. It provides a clean, stretchy finish that’s comfortable against the skin.
Other than folding, you can use it as it is on top of the fabric as well – it is soft and smooth enough to be on the surface of the fabric. This is usually used on the waistline edge of underwear.
Used in baby clothing
Fold over elastic is soft and stretchy. It is perfect for use in diaper covers, baby hats.
Used to make hair accessories
FOE can be used to make hair accessories like ties and headbands. Its soft texture and stretchability make it gentle on hair, reducing the risk of hair breaking.
Binding and Piping
FOE can serve as an alternative to traditional binding or piping in projects like blankets, quilts, and more, giving them a unique and colorful edge. It is usually used to bind the leg line edges of panties
Straps for clothes
FOE is used for making straps for slips or camisoles. You can also use it in one go to bind the neckline and then go over as the strap.
Make Stretchy bracelets
You can sew stretchy bracelets using fold over elastic quite easily.
How to sew the fold over elastic binding a fabric edge
One side of the fold-over elastic is shinier than the other side. This is usually used on the outside.
A zig zag stitch is used to sew this elastic tape because this is a stretchy stitch. A straight stitch will break when stretched.
Adjust your stitch type to zig-zag and stitch width to 2 or 3 if you want a narrow zig-zag, use 2. And a stitch length of 2. Fold the elastic tape over the fabric edge
Method 1 – Sewing over the edge of a stretchy fabric.
Sew from the top, catching the top fold of the tape, fabric edge in between, and the bottom fold of the tape.
Ensure that you are stitching through all these layers at all times.
Method 2 – Sewing the fold over elastic over the edge of a non-stretchy fabric or for gathering
Take fabric double the length of the fabric. The fabric automatically gathers to match the stretch of the elastic.
You should stretch the elastic as you sew, that is the trick- this will automatically gather the fullness of the fabric to match the elastic stretch.
Here is a video explaining the process.
Related post : Which elastic to use in sewing ; Different types of sewing tools.
