I recently made a swimsuit, tank style, and the pattern called for inserting the elastic through a casing. Now wanting it to look too home-made, I stitched it on with my serger and turned it to the inside. But it was way too big even though I used the elastic measurements on the pattern. Now I'd like to make another, but wonder if I should try the serger application again, and if there are suggested ratios of elastic to garment.
Thank much,
WL
Dear WL,
Learning how to apply swimsuit elastic is the only catch to a really simple sewing operation. The ratio is one to one, except at the back of the leg (butt), where the ratio is two to one. I like to apply the elastic to the raw edge, then turn it once and stitch it, then turn it again. The elastic should be held taut, for the one -to- one ratio, and stretched for the two-to-one. I use a zigzag stitch. The fabric should be slightly rippled for the one-to-one, and definitely pleated for the two-to-one. It takes a bit of practice, but you'll soon learn by looking if the elastic is right.
Teri
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