My Swaddlebees pockets are in desperate need of new leg elastic.
I, a novice seamstress, am undertaking this task.

I've read as many threads as possible about replacing leg elastic, most of them related to FBs.
I'm planning to use 1/4" stretchrite elastic in my mediums because that's the size currently in them. I will use a zigzag stitch to attach.
My biggest question is how much elastic to use for each. I know a more experienced sewer would just do what looks right, but I need a little more detail :shy.
I know I need 100% polyester thread. Is there any particular kind that works well?
Also, where should I get my elastic and thread? My choices are JoAnn's or online. I would really appreciate some guidance.

TIA!

When I put elastic in the legs of my pocket dipes, I stretch it *almost* all the way out. Unfortunately, that's the best advice I can give you, every brand and kind of elastic has a different amount of "stretch" to it, so there really isn't an exact measurement...

The other suggestion I could give would be to measure the elastic that you take out and then use roughly the same amount--but this will probably be trial and error as well, since the elastic you take out will be stretched out.

Swaddlebees should be easy. First, mark where the elastic starts and stops on the seam allowance of the diaper (where it is currently sewn on). Carefully use a seam ripper or tiny scissors to remove the stitching that is holding the elastic on (it will be a straight stitch on the swaddlebees). Now that you have the elastic off, place your new elastic just past the elastic starting point and tack it down (a few zig zag stitches going back and forth). Pull the elastic as far as it will reasonably stretch, and stitch it down to the seam allowance with a zig zag, you will need to use your left hand to pull the diaper from the back of the machine while you do his. When you get to the elastic ending mark tack it down again. Cut your remaining loose elastic just past your tack.
You don't need elastic measurements, because 1/4" stretchrite if stretched fully should be perfect, It's better not to cut your elastic to size first anyway so you have something to hold onto.
I think any high quality poly thread will work fine.
HTH

Thanks to the mamas who have held my hand so far :wink

What brands of thread are high quality?
Any suggestions on where I should buy the thread and elastic?

Joanns, buy Gutterman's 100% poly thread (great stuff and you can sometimes get it on sale) and Stretchrite knit elastic (this is at Walmart, Joann's, Hobby Lobby, etc.). Don't get the non-roll stuff since it is not approved for chlorine and is not as strong as the regular.