Five common elastic issues & how to solve them
Sewing your own lingerie is one of the most rewarding DIY projects—delicate lace, silky fabrics, and comfy elastic all coming together to create something totally unique. But let’s be real: working with elastic can be tricky, especially when you’re just starting out. If you've ever ended up with wavy waistbands, tight leg openings, or elastic that just won’t behave, you're not alone!
Don’t stop sewing, I’ve got you covered. I go over five of the most common elastic problems and then (more importantly) how to fix them so your handmade lingerie looks totally lush.
Here’s How to Fix the Most Common Lingerie Sewing Problems!
1. The Wavy, Ripply Elastic Dilemma
The Problem:
Your elastic looks stretched out and wavy instead of laying flat and smooth against the fabric.
Why It Happens:
The elastic was stretched too much while sewing.
The fabric and elastic weren’t evenly distributed.
The stitch tension is too tight.
The Fix:
Reduce the amount you stretch the elastic as you sew. A good rule of thumb: gently stretch, but don’t pull for dear life!
Pin or quarter-mark your elastic and fabric so they are evenly spaced.
Use a zigzag stitch instead of a straight stitch—it moves with the elastic and prevents puckering.
Check your stitch tension. Too tight? Loosen it up!
2. Elastic That’s Too Tight
The Problem:
Your lingerie looks amazing, but the elastic digs into your skin like it has a personal vendetta against you.
Why It Happens:
The elastic was cut too short.
The elastic was stretched too much while sewing.
The Fix:
Use a measuring tape and test the elastic around your body before cutting.
If you’re following a pattern, double-check the elastic measurements—sometimes they need slight adjustments depending on your material.
When sewing, let the elastic guide you rather than pulling it too tightly.
3. The Loose and Baggy Situation
The Problem:
The elastic is too loose, and your lingerie isn’t staying in place. Cue wardrobe malfunction!
Why It Happens:
The elastic is too long.
The fabric is too heavy for the elastic,.
The Fix:
Cut your elastic a little shorter and test the fit before sewing.
Use firmer elastic for heavier fabrics, switch from knitted elastic to brushed-back elastics, don’t know the difference? When holding and stretching knitted elastics up towards the light you will be able to see through them.
Try sewing a second row of zigzag stitches to give the elastic more grip. Unsure how to do this? Check out this blog
4. Twisted or Uneven Elastic
The Problem:
Your elastic has twisted inside the casing or ended up uneven. (This would be on elastic in waistbands).
Why It Happens:
The elastic wasn’t properly secured before sewing.
The fabric casing is too wide, allowing the elastic to shift.
The Fix:
Pin or baste the elastic in place before sewing.
Choose the right width of elastic for your casing (it should fit snugly without room to twist).
Consider sewing the elastic directly to the fabric instead of using a casing.
5. Cracked Stitches
The Problem:
Your lingerie was perfect… until you heard that dreadful crack of a broken stitch when you put it on.
Why It Happens:
A straight stitch was used instead of a stretch stitch.
The stitches were too small and tight.
The Fix:
Always use a zigzag stitch, three-step zigzag, or an overlock/serger stitch for elastic.
Adjust stitch length slightly longer (test on a scrap first!).
If using a regular sewing machine, consider a stretch needle to help prevent skipped stitches.
You Got This/Tits!
Elastic can be tricky, if you would like to learn more about fabrics and components, then please check out this lingeri-E-course Fabrics and components