Threads & Elastic

Sewing Thread and Elastic for Dance Costumes

Sewing Thread

For dance costume creation, Coats Moon thread stands out as an exceptional all-purpose sewing thread. This versatile 100% polyester thread excels in:

• Machine sewing
• Quilting
• Overlocking

Known for its strength and slight stretch, Coats Moon thread (also called Coats thread) is ideal for dance costumes where seams must move fluidly with the dancer. Its durability makes it perfect for costumes that undergo frequent washing and wear, whilst its versatility allows it to work well with most fabrics used in dancewear.

Elastic for Dance Costumes

Dance costume construction often requires specialised elastic. Our strong flat ribbed elastic for sewing offers the perfect balance of durability and flexibility. At 6mm wide, this elastic is specifically designed for:

• Necklines
• Arm openings
• Leg openings

Its robust construction ensures it maintains elasticity even after repeated stretching and washing, making it ideal for frequently worn dance costumes.

Choosing the Right Thread and Elastic

Selecting appropriate sewing cotton and elastic is crucial for creating long-lasting dance costumes. Consider these factors:

• Fabric type: The Coats Moon thread’s weight complements most dance fabrics.
• Seam stress: This thread’s strength withstands areas of high strain during dancing.
• Thread visibility: Available in various colours to match or complement your fabric.
• Stretch requirements: Our flat ribbed elastic offers optimal stretch and recovery for dancewear.

Tips for Sewing with Elastic

When incorporating sewing elastic into dance costumes:

• Pre-fit the elastic on the dancer before cutting to ensure comfort and proper fit.
• Utilise a zigzag stitch when attaching elastic directly to fabric, allowing for necessary stretch.
• For a professional finish on exposed elastic, consider top stitching with a twin needle.
• Whilst sewing, slightly stretch the elastic but keep the fabric relaxed to prevent warping.

Sewing Needles

Organ stretch sewing needles are essential for working with elastic and stretchy fabrics common in dance costumes. These specialised needles feature slightly rounded tips that glide between fabric fibres, reducing damage to elastic and preventing skipped stitches in stretchy materials.

FAQs

What elastic is best for sewing?

For dance costumes, our strong flat ribbed elastic is optimal. Its 6mm width and durable construction make it versatile for waistbands, leg openings, and arm bands. It maintains elasticity well, crucial for costumes worn and washed frequently.

Can you put elastic in a sewing machine?

Absolutely. Use a zigzag stitch to accommodate the elastic’s stretch. Slightly extend the elastic whilst sewing to ensure it retains flexibility when relaxed. Always use an appropriate needle, like our Organ stretch needles, and test on scrap fabric to perfect tension and technique.

Do I need a special needle to sew elastic?

Whilst not always necessary, specialised needles like our Organ stretch sewing needles can significantly improve results when working with elastic. Their rounded tips navigate between elastic fibres without piercing, reducing damage and ensuring smoother stitching.

Do you stretch elastic before sewing?

Yes, slightly stretching elastic during sewing is recommended. This technique, aiming for 10-25% stretch, ensures the elastic retains flexibility in the finished garment. The exact stretch depends on the elastic type and its use in the costume. Always test fit on the dancer before final sewing.

What is sewing cotton?

For dance costumes, particularly those using Lycra, our 100% polyester Coats Moon thread is superior to traditional cotton thread. It offers strength, durability, and slight stretch, making it ideal for dance costume creation. It’s less likely to break during the intense movements of dance performances.

What cotton should I use for a sewing machine?

For a sewing machine, our Coats Moon thread works excellently. It’s strong, has a slight sheen, and works well for most dance costume sewing. Always check that the thread runs smoothly through your machine and doesn’t create lint build-up.

What sewing stitch is best for cotton?

The best stitch depends on what you’re sewing. For most seams, a straight stitch works well. For seams that need strength or stretch, like in dance costumes, a narrow zigzag can be good. For finishing raw edges, an overlock stitch or French seam can give a neat finish. Always test your stitch on a scrap of the same fabric first.

Is 100% cotton easy to sew?

Whilst 100% cotton is generally easy to sew, it’s not typically used for form-fitting dance costumes due to its lack of stretch. For dance costumes, we recommend using our Coats Moon polyester thread, which works well with the stretchy fabrics commonly used in dancewear.