How much elastic do I need?

[Pixie71]

Hi. I am making my first attempt at converting a prefold into a fitted (turn & topstitch style), but I'm unsure as to how long of a piece of elastic I need for the leg area. I have cut an additional outer layer in order to make this "work".

I plan on bartacking the ends onto the seam allowance of my inner & body layers, then turning and stitching a leg casing, as opposed to the 3-step stitch which I can NEVER seem to get right.

There is 12" between my elastic "points" in the leg contour. I will be using 1/4" braided elastic. What elastic length (unstretched) would I need for the best possible fit?

Thank you to anyone who can help me.

[Kari_mom]

It is difficult to answer your question from the information you have given, I think that is why you haven't had any replies.

Most prefold to fitted conversions that I have seen are not T&T;, I am not sure how you would do that with just a prefold since the layers are already sewn together. If you are using the prefold as the inner of a fitted with another fabric on the outside, that would make more sense.

To judge how much elastic is needed for diaper leg openings, I stretch the elastic out a good bit but not as tight as it goes and hold it up to a ruler. The amount of stretch varies by type of elastic, so it is really impossible to say more exactly what you need. Add a little for the tacking on each end too.

Does this help?

[calmom]

(QUOTE)There is 12" between my elastic "points" in the leg contour. I will be using 1/4" braided elastic. What elastic length (unstretched) would I need for the best possible fit?(QUOTE)

*****First off, are you making a newborn or small fitted? 1/4" is fine for those but for a bigger diaper, I would use 3/8". Also, I really prefer Strechrite elastic as opposed to the braided stuff. I know you didn't ask for that particular bit of advice but I thought it might help.

For 12", I would use a piece about 6 1/2-7" long, plus add a bit on for tacking.

I don't measure my elastic anymore. I just tack it (or sew the whole piece on) and stretch it not quite as far as it can go. Saves a lot of time for me!

Christie

[Pixie71]

Thanks for replying ~ it's actually a premium sized hemp prefold that I could never get a pin through, or get a snappi to hold, so I'm going to convert it. Yhe only two widths of elastic that I have are the 1/4" & 1/2". Do you think 1/2" will be too wide? I also have some Lastin, if you think that will work.

[calmom]

I would use the 1/2". And, lastin should work fine too. I have never used it but my sewing friends like it.

[Pixie71]

Cool, Thanks! Off to see if it works!