Two different kinds of stretch
Mechanical stretch comes from loops in a knit or from a crimped yarn. Elastane stretch comes from a filament that recovers after extension. A cotton jersey can move without any elastane. A woven stretch trouser usually needs an elastane or similar component.
Recovery matters as much as extension. A cloth that grows and does not return will not hold a waistband or a tailored line.
- Knit stretch and elastane stretch are not the same.
- Recovery is part of the decision, not only stretch percentage.
How FabStitch treats stretch
Stretch appears in filters and on fabric records only when the catalog documents it. The interface does not invent a stretch percentage to make two products easier to compare. If you need stretch for activewear or a fitted dress, use the documented field and the Performance or knit collections rather than assuming every jersey will recover.
- No documented stretch means no claimed stretch.
- Activewear and knitwear pages are the right starting points.
Questions this guide answers
- Does jersey always stretch?
- Jersey has mechanical give. How much it recovers depends on fibre, gauge and finish. Read the named fabric rather than assuming elastane.
Continue with the catalog
Compare named fabrics, then send an inquiry with the quantity you need.