How to measure a stretch percentage on fabrics
How to Measure Fabric Stretch Like a Pro (Using Just a 10cm Square!)
Hey there, Whether you’re dreaming of whipping up a pair of comfy briefs or a bra, knowing how much your fabric stretches is key to getting that flawless fit. But don’t worry—measuring stretch percentage is super easy (and kinda fun)! Let’s dive in.
What You Need:
A 10cm x 10cm (4” x 4”) square of your fabric
A ruler or measuring tape
Your hands—because you’re about to get hands-on!
Step 1: Cut Your Fabric Square
First things first—cut a 10cm x 10cm square of your fabric. Make sure you cut it with the grain or against the grain depending on which way you want to measure stretch (most lingerie fabrics have more give in one direction). I would measure both as usually the most stretch goes around the body.
Step 2: Grab & Stretch
Hold one edge of your fabric square at the 0cm mark on your ruler. With your other hand, gently pull the fabric along the stretch direction until you feel a natural stopping point—don’t overdo it! The goal is to measure the stretch without distorting the fabric permanently.
Step 3: Measure & Calculate
Check how far your fabric has stretched and use this simple formula:
(New length - Original length) ÷ Original length x 100 = Stretch Percentage
For example:
If your fabric stretches from 10cm to 15cm: (15 - 10) ÷ 10 x 100 = 50% stretch
If it stretches from 10cm to 20cm: (20 - 10) ÷ 10 x 100 = 100% stretch
Or a quick way is to add a ‘zero’ on to the amount it stretches ie if it stretches 5cm it has a 50% stretch.
What Do These Numbers Mean?
0-25% stretch → Light stretch (best for structured bodices, corsets, and non-stretch lace details)
25-50% stretch → Moderate stretch (ideal for soft cup bras, high-waist panties, and camisoles)
50-100% stretch → High stretch (perfect for bralettes, teddies, and body-hugging lingerie sets)
100%+ stretch → Ultra-stretchy! (Think second-skin mesh, microfibre, and all-day comfort lingerie.)
Always test stretch both horizontally and vertically—some fabrics stretch more in one direction!
If your pattern calls for “at least 50% stretch,” make sure your fabric meets the requirement, or you might end up with a too-tight or too-loose fit.
Check fabric recovery, too—stretch it and see if it snaps back to shape. If it stays baggy, it might not be ideal for fitted lingerie. Nothing worse than a baggy bottom!
NOTE
You can use this technique by just holding the fabric with both hands 10cm apart and stretching the fabric, but if you are a beginner, I find that cutting out a square and recording the information, will help you learn the fabrics and build you up a guide of what fabric can do what.
If you would like to learn more about fabrics and components, then I run a course ‘how to design and refine your first lingerie collection’ fabrics and components.