De-lurking for a moment to query the wisdom of this group!
How can I accurately measure a fabric's stretch? I've pulled on 4" and judged the percent (50%, 75%, etc.) but I've been waaay off on several occasions.
Is there, say, an "industry standard" method of quantifying fabric stretch that uses known forces (weights?) or something more precise than feel? Ideally I'd be able to measure and generate numbers by which to compare fabrics. For example, in addition to the total amount of stretch (percent?) I'd like to know the force required to achieve that stretch (to get an idea how tight or loose the garment might feel at that stretch).
Background: I'm sewing cycling shorts and have found (after butchering a few prototypes) that fabric stretch makes a big difference! (no laughing please -- I'm guessing this isn't news to anyone!). :-)
Thanks in advance.