Elastic plays a big role in how a garment feels, fits, and performs over time — but it’s often something we don’t think too much about.
Once you start looking more closely, you’ll find that not all elastic is created equal.
Most elastic is made using synthetic fibres (fossil fuel based, non-biodegradable, microplastics) but the elastic we source is 100% plastic-free.
Our natural elastic from CHARLE - Premium Haberdashery has all the same performance features you'd expect from conventional elastic but a much lower environmental impact (plus it feels better too).
Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right elastic for your waistband. Each elastic featured is woven in construction, meaning it's designed to sit flat and stay put (aka non-roll elastic).
In short
- Choosing the right elastic comes down to comfort, function and preference
- 'Light' elastics suit soft, relaxed garments
- 'Strong' elastics provide structure and support
- Width plays a big role in how a waistband feels and performs
- All elastics in this guide are 'woven' and anti-roll
You can explore our most popular wasitband elastics in more detail below.
25MM STRONG
Often used in patterns for casual trousers, shorts and skirts.
Not too wide and not too narrow, this elastic sits beautifully in between.
Slightly firmer due to its higher rubber content, it’s great for a more secure waistband in mid to heavy weight fabrics.
Best for:
- trousers
- skirts
- mid to heavy weight fabrics
- garments where you want a firmer, more supportive waistband
25MM LIGHT TENCEL™
A beautifully soft and smooth elastic made from Tencel™ Lyocell and natural rubber.
Perfect for light or delicate fabrics such as batiste, poplin, voile or silk.
Particularly well suited to garments that come into contact with sensitive skin — such as underwear and briefs.
Best for:
- light or delicate fabrics
- underwear and garments against the skin
- soft, comfortable waistbands
Available in White.
28MM LIGHT
One of our most versatile elastics.
With a slightly lower rubber content than the 25mm, it has a lighter feel and works beautifully across light to medium weight fabrics.
Best for:
- everyday garments
- light to medium weight fabrics
- when you want flexibility and comfort
40MM LIGHT
A soft and versatile waistband elastic, perfect for most trousers, shorts and skirts made with light to medium weight fabrics.
The wider width helps distribute tension evenly for a comfortable fit.
Best for:
- wider waistbands
- everyday garments
- comfort-focused designs
40MM STRONG
Our firmest elastic option.
Ideal for more utilitarian style garments, or when the waistband needs to support extra weight such as heavier fabrics, large garment volume, pockets or tools.
Best for:
- medium to heavy weight fabrics
- structured garments
- when you need maximum support and stability
44MM SEGMENTED
This unique elastic is extremely soft and flexible.
With our highest organic cotton content, it is particularly comfortable against the skin and ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch around the waist.
Best for:
- pyjamas
- loungewear
- light to medium weight fabrics
- comfort-focused garments
Available in Ecru.
50MM LIGHT
We specially imported this elastic width for our sewing community, as it’s frequently called for in indie sewing patterns.
A versatile and comfortable elastic for skirts, trousers and shorts where a statement waistband is desired.
This elastic is similar in strength to our 40mm Light, but with a wider, more visible finish.
Best for:
- statement waistbands
- indie sewing patterns
- skirts, trousers and shorts
Available in Ecru.
BUTTONHOLE
An underused innovation when it comes to creating a flexible waistband.
Usually seen in children’s clothing, this technique can easily be adapted for adult skirts or trousers.
By pairing buttonhole elastic with buttons inside the waistband, you can adjust the fit as needed — allowing for different levels of comfort depending on the day or situation.
Best for:
- adjustable fit garments
- growing bodies or fluctuating sizing
- skirts and trousers that need flexibility
Available in 15mm Ecru and 18mm Black.
Choosing your width
While many sewing patterns will suggest a specific width, there’s flexibility to adjust this based on the elastic you prefer or have available, it usually just requires an easy pattern adaption.
Ready to create your dream waistband? Check out our Natural Waistband Elastic collection and get ready to say hello to comfort.
Want to discover more about the incredible elastic created by CHARLE? Learn why we believe this is the Most Sustainable Elastic in the World.