Twin Lakes Two Piece Fold Over Elastic Hack

Our new Twin Lakes Two Piece sewing pattern is a great versatile set, that can be made as a swim set, or lingerie set. In this blog post we're showing you how to use fold over lingerie elastic to create a gorgeous matching underwear set. It's a great method, and a lot easier than you may think. Continue reading to find out more.

What you will need:

You will need fold over elastic, for this I used 5/8" elastic, but you can choose a width you prefer. I ordered 5 meters which was plenty for this pattern, but maybe add more depending on your size. I made a medium top and large bottoms. 

Shop the Twin Lakes Two Piece pattern here.

Pattern modifications:

You don't need to modify any of the pieces, but you will omit a few of the pattern pieces from the main fabric, you will need to use the patterns as reference to the elastic size. 

Fold over elastic technique:

Most elastics will have a more shiny or matt side, for this version. I wanted the shiny side to be the 'right side' that shows.

• Pin your elastic to the WRONG SIDE of your project, with the RIGHTSIDE of the elastic you want shown facing up (so wrong side to wrong side). Using a long straight stitch, baste the elastic in place under the center fold of the elasted, I did this 1cm from the edge as per the pattern seam allowance, this doesn't matter too much as long as the stitch is below that center line.
• Stretch the elastic slightly as you sew, but do not stretch the fabric. This will help the elastic gather the fabric gently without puckering. The elastic should be slightly smaller than the pattern piece. 

• Trim off the excess seam allowance, making sure it is trimmed enough to be below the centre line of the elastic, giving it space to fold over smoothly. 
• Fold the elastic over to the right side of your project, clip of pin in place. 

• Sew the elastic with the right side facing up as you sew, using a zig zag stitch to sew over the edge of the elastic, top stitching it in place.
• Press the seam gently with a cool iron to smooth out any wrinkles or puckers.

 

Other top tips for using lingerie elastic:

Choose the right elastic for your project, depending on the patter nseam allowance you may want a slightly thicker elastic. 

Measure the area where you will be attaching the elastic and cut it slightly shorter than the fabric to ensure a snug fit. With the Twin Lakes use the pattern pieces for the bands as reference but if the elastic is really stretchy, you may want to make it 10/20% smaller.

Use a stretch or zigzag stitch to allow the elastic to stretch. A three-step zigzag stitch is particularly effective. A standard sewing machine with the right needle for your project works really well. For this project the machine was set to 2.5 x 2.5 zigzag stitch.