4 Way & 2 Way Stretch Fabrics

Fabric stretch is a major consideration when choosing the right fabric for your project. No stretch can be just as important as some stretch. Similarly, choosing which part of the fabric stretches is important. Below we will go over some fabrics that are stretchy and highlight which directions they stretch, about how much, and what else you can expect.

Let’s define some terms that will appear below

Mechanical Stretch – Mechanical stretch is what you could also call a “natural stretch”. Essentially any stretch that you can experience is brute force of pulling on the fabric. Any stretch will be minimal but is important for sewing and application planning.

2 Way Stretch – Two-way stretch can also be thought of as “one side stretch”. This is most often along the Weft. Here, when we call out a two-way stretch you should note that each fabric’s amount of stretch will differ but you can assume 1+ inches of stable stretch minimum without compromising the integrity of the fabric.

4 Way Stretch – Four-way stretch would also be called “two side stretch” which would mean you will be able to stretch the fabric along the warp and weft sides of the fabric. Typically the weft stretch will be greater than the warp stretch.

Fabrics that stretch

SPANDEX – This collection of fabric will often be found while looking in the Spandex section of fabric stores. Spandex fabrics often are not 100% spandex but have spandex in them to enable the desired amount of stretch while offering different end-use applications or performance features.

VINYL – You can find vinyl fabrics in online stores easily by going to the “faux leather” or “vinyl” sections typically. Vinyl fabrics vary greatly in texture, color, performance, and material. The great thing about vinyl faux leather is that it can mimic historical real leather performance but also it has grown to unleash new performance and usability that real leather cannot duplicate.

MINKY – Think soft. Then think really soft! That’s Minky Fabric. Minky is traditionally a very short length pile super soft fabric that is often found on plushies, baby products, etc. However, Minky is starting to show up in even more styles, patterns, and pile lengths. Usually the softness of minky is due to the quality of the polyester manufacturing process.

OTHER NOTABLE FABRICS –

See These Fabrics Compared For More Context

A Slow Motion Demonstration of Techno Athletic Neoprene’s Stretching Along Waft & Weft

Waft & Weft Stretch Test of Techno Athletic Neoprene Vinyl

Stretching Ultra Holographic Glossy Patent Spandex Vinyl As Much As Possible

Mochi Plush Minky 4 Way Stretch Vs Solid Minky Fabric

Mochi Plush Minky Stretch Test