Umbra and Other Undies: Sourcing waistband and finishing elastic

Help Help with FreeSewing patterns
,
1

image
image1517×1138 321 KB

Work in progress on Umbra from an old t-shirt. Not for showcase

It was an easy sew up to the point where I tried doing a knit band waist and leg finish. At the point I started having sewing machine mechanical issues and realizing that I need an entirely new set of skills for working with jersey knits. It’s far enough along to look at v2 with some minor sizing adjustments.

What I need help with:

  • What to look for in elastic trim for both waistband and leg. The black material used here is very stretchy and has a strong tendency to curl up. My keyword searches have yielded confusing results.
  • Suggestions for body fabric as well.
  • Suggestions for guides working with knits. I’d like to try some t-shirts as well but working with the black fabric (purchased from Michaels) was a bit like giving a cat a pill.

In the US, but if I have a better idea of what keywords to look for, it would make my search easier.

1 Like
2

:rofl: :rofl:

I’m a relative newbie, too, and I also find knits challenging. Surprisingly, I also have made a couple FreeSewing.eu underwear garments from old T-shirts. It’s a great way to learn without spending/wasting any money.

A knits expert may come along and give you/us some advice. I know that waistband elastic comes in many types, such as knit or woven and some are anti-roll, and they can feel to the user like anything between plastic-y and rough to silky & soft. My first ones all feel very rough. Sometimes patterns include options to cover the waistband with body or lining fabric so that it’s softer.

1 Like
3

You want fold over elastic; it gives a clean finish and is easier to apply than any of the other options.

2 Likes