12 Ways You’re Using Lycra Fabric Wrong

Lycra is an essential raw material used for the development of stretchable fabric in current times. Additionally, Lycra-based fabrics are popular amongst all types of customers as it provides a high level of comfort, high stretchability, great fit, and flexibility to move. At the same time, it’s a tricky fabric to work on, and customers are concerned about the product’s longevity and quality standard.

Here are 12 ways you may be using Lycra fabric incorrectly.

1. Incorrect needle size selection

Lycra fiber can break due to incorrect size, diameter, or malfunctioning of the needle. Thus, needle size and quality are the most critical factors in regulating Lycra breakage during the stitching stage. The Lycra fabric requires a unique type of needle, which may be selected according to the fabric thickness, process design, and demand. Needles with smaller number sizes, particularly those with a ballpoint and a small diameter, must be used.

2. Machine with a high pressure

Due to the increased pressure and speed of the machine, the in-process material pulls away during operation, injuring the surface, which might result in Lycra breaking. Thus, it is important to adjust the machine to the proper pressure.

3. The sharpness of the machine bed and associated equipment used to hold products

The sharpness of the machine bed, conveyor belt, goods holding box, inspection table, and other equipment can cause the yarn of the goods to be pulled, resulting in Lycra breaking. Therefore, it is critical to ensure that all equipment surfaces and edges are completely secure and free of sharp edges.

4. Using the incorrect interface or none at all

There are so many different types of interfaces that determining which one is ideal for your project might be a pain. At times, interfacing appears to be an unnecessary step that can be omitted. However, interfacing is required to give your garment a clean, crisp finish and to provide any additional structural support it may require.

5. Using a damaged needle for Lycra fabric

Using the damaged type of sewing machine needle is a very typical error.  It can result in needle breakage, trouble coping with the Lycra blend, and substandard stitch quality.

6. Avoid ironing your Lycra fabric

The usual rule is to avoid ironing spandex-containing clothes. However, if ironing is necessary, use the lowest heat setting feasible and apply smooth pressure.

7. Cutting Lycra fabric and paper with the same scissors

While fabric scissors can be used to cut paper, the abrasive fibers, minerals, and chemicals in the paper can quickly blunt the blade. If you’d like to maintain your fabric scissors sharp for an extended period, cutting paper is not a smart habit to develop.

8. Pre-washing your lycra fabric is not necessary

Lycra begins to degrade the moment it is washed for the first time. Therefore, if you wash your piece of fabric and utilize only a tiny amount before storing the remainder for another day, you may discover that the old cloth deteriorates rapidly when worn.

9. Inadequate pattern cutting on your lycra fabric

Ensure that you align precisely with the grain lines of the lycra fabric. Arrange your cloth flat on a clean surface, such as a clean floor. If you set your cotton lycra blend on a table, ensure that no sections of it dangle over the edge, as this will cause it to stretch out of shape. If you must cut on a fold, ensure that the fold is perpendicular to the grain. Before cutting, check that the pattern pieces are aligned with the grain lines and then pin them all around.

10. Keep a couple of Lycra fabrics on hand

It’s all too easy, particularly as a beginner, to make errors or blunders while attempting to cut out a design. These errors always result in you having to trash the cloth. When purchasing lycra fabric for your sewing project, get an additional yard to account for this kind of problem.

11. Preparation of the Lycra fabric is crucial

Preparing your cloth before beginning your craft is critical! Certain textiles must be washed or even dry cleaned before use.

12. Use the appropriate tools for Lycra fabric

Simple errors can be readily prevented by using the appropriate tools. We have discussed the necessity of using the proper needles and thread, but there is more to it, like scissors. Among kitchen scissors and sewing-appropriate scissors, there is a vast difference. Not every pair of scissors is made equal! To cut your fabric, you’ll need a nice pair of SHARP scissors. Never cut your material using your standard home scissors, which you use to cut paper, packing, and so on.

Final Words

Sewing on Lycra fabric can be intimidating at first, but the fabric can be tamed with the proper care, tools, and machine setup. If you are looking for Lycra fabric, visit Fashinza for a comprehensive selection.