Setup, Compatibility & Care
Before sewing, it is recommended to pre-wash the fabric at 40 degrees to account for any minor shrinkage. When cutting, use sharp pins or pattern weights to keep the fabric aligned, as the stretch can cause shifting if the fabric is not held firmly on your cutting mat. For machine sewing, a universal needle (size 70/10 or 80/12) is generally sufficient. Use a standard straight stitch for seams, but consider a slight zig-zag or stretch stitch if the garment has significant ease or is meant to be very fitted to prevent thread snapping. To care for finished garments, machine wash on a 40-degree cycle and line dry; avoid high-heat tumble drying as it can compromise the elastane's elasticity over time.