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Power Stretch

What is power stretch fabric?

Power stretch fabric is a highly elastic fabric designed for strong stretch, close fit and shape recovery. It usually contains elastane combined with fibres such as polyamide, polyester, cotton or viscose. The fabric stretches with the body and returns to its original shape after movement.

Power stretch is especially relevant for garments that need support, flexibility and comfort at the same time. It is commonly used for leggings, activewear, dancewear, shapewear, fitted tops and close-fitting bodywear.

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Specifications

  • Construction Usually knitted stretch fabric, sometimes woven with elastane
  • Composition Commonly polyamide, polyester, cotton or viscose with elastane
  • Fabric weight Commonly around 160 to 175g/m², depending on density, fibre blend and intended use
  • Stretchability High stretch, often two-way or four-way stretch with strong recovery
  • Abbreviations PA = polyamide, PES = polyester, CO = cotton, CV or VI = viscose, EL = elastane

Properties of the fabric

Power stretch is usually knitted, but elastic woven versions can also exist. The high stretch comes from elastane, which is added to the fabric structure or used as a core yarn. Even a small percentage of elastane can have a strong effect because the yarn is very light and can run throughout the fabric.

The fabric can stretch in two directions or in four directions. Four-way stretch gives more freedom of movement because it stretches both lengthwise and widthwise. Good recovery is essential: after stretching, the fabric should spring back without becoming baggy.

Applications

  • Leggings.
  • Activewear tops.
  • Dancewear.
  • Shapewear.
  • Fitted bodysuits.
  • Stretch waistbands and panels.

Care instructions

  • Wash power stretch usually at 30°C or 40°C, depending on composition and finish.
  • Wash inside out to reduce friction and protect the surface.
  • Avoid bleach, as it can damage elastane.
  • Avoid high tumble-drying temperatures, as heat can reduce stretch recovery.
  • Rinse swim or performance garments after contact with chlorine or salt water.

Certificates

  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 may be available depending on the specific article.

Practical tip

Always test stretch and recovery before cutting power stretch fabric. Mark the strongest stretch direction and place pattern pieces correctly, especially for leggings, shapewear and fitted garments.

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Written by

Dave Van der Steen Nooteboom Textiles

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