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Member since 10/16/08
Posts: 2
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Posted on: 11/6/08 1:19 PM ET
hello

I have a pattern for underwear. The instructions just say fold ends and stitch. However i would like to add a 4cm band of fabric to the bottom to act kind of like an elastic. However I don't know how to measure the length of the fabric to go on the opening. I know it should be a bit smaller that the opening. Is there a general rule of thumb?

thanks.
  
Member since 11/26/06
Posts: 2701
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Posted on: 11/6/08 1:32 PM ET
In reply to metalcowgirl
Lots of factors to consider here. First, what pattern/style are you making? Are you expecting the fabric to really hold like the elastic on standard underwear? What type of fabric is the body of the underwear? And what type of fabric (stretch, I presume?) were you thinking of using for the binding?

If you are doing a standard knit binding (like on the neckline of a t-shirt), I think the best way to figure your length is by feel. This is how I measure my neckbindings. Cut a length of binding at least as long as your leg opening, pin it in one spot on your garment, and then run the binding around the leg opening, stretching the strip gently as you go. Too much and the body of your garment might look poufy at the binding seam. Too little and the binding will just hang there.

Sorry so many questions...just trying to give an accurate answer!
Eve
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People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those who are doing it - Chinese proverb
  
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