Garment elastic refers to a type of narrow fabric that has the ability to stretch and return to its original length. It's a fundamental component in clothing construction, used to provide comfortable fit, shape, and support.

Garment elastic comes in various constructions, each with different properties and best uses:

Braided Elastic: This is the most common type. It has parallel ribs and narrows when stretched. It's best used in casings as sewing directly into it can cause it to lose its stretch.
Knitted Elastic: Softer and lighter than braided elastic, it doesn't narrow when stretched and can be sewn directly into the garment without losing its recovery. It's suitable for lightweight to medium-weight fabrics. Fold-over elastic (FOE) is a type of knitted elastic with a center fold line, ideal for finishing edges.
Woven Elastic (Non-Roll Elastic): This is the strongest and thickest type, resistant to rolling or folding. It has both lengthwise and crosswise ribs, resembling a window pane. It's often used for heavier fabrics and applications like waistbands in pants and outerwear.
Clear Elastic: Made of polyurethane, this elastic is very strong and can stretch significantly without losing its shape. It's often used for stabilizing seams (like shoulder seams) or creating gathers.
Buttonhole Elastic: Features woven buttonholes along its length, allowing for adjustable waistbands.
Drawcord Elastic: Contains a cord running through the center, often used in waistbands or hoods where the length needs to be adjusted.
Swimwear Elastic: Specifically designed to withstand chlorine and saltwater.
Lingerie Elastic: Often softer and more decorative, used for bras, underwear, and other delicate garments.
Shirring Elastic (Elastic Thread): A fine elastic thread used in the bobbin of a sewing machine to create gathered or shirred sections in garments.