How to weaken-stretch elastic waistband?

Once elastic is stretched too far beyond its capability, it loses structural integrity and may end up too weak to function in its intended purpose. One option for extending the range of a piece of elastic is to cut strategic notches in the fabric. While this may also weaken the piece, it also allows greater range without destroying the bonds in the elastic itself.

Another, more durable method is to cut the elastic altogether and sew in an extension, also called a "splice," of the same type of elastic. This technique works best with a sewing machine that can deliver tight and uniform stitches. Still another way to stretch elastic that is too tight is to pin the two ends across an ironing board and iron the extended material.

Once it cools, it stays at the extended length. This technique leads to less range of stretch in the fabric, but the piece remains looser, so it is most useful in the context of a long-term solution. Sometimes an elastic fabric can prove more useful and versatile with a size adjustment.

For growing teenagers who might hit a growth spurt or adults who may gain weight as a result of having kids, stretching an elastic fabric into a looser and less flexible form can help. There are a number of effective methods for stretching elastic into a more comfortable size.