This is probably a really stupid question, but ...

[insaneladybug]

... Is there any way to successfully use elastic with a non-stretchy material, aside from exposed elastic? It's confusing because it seems like no way would the law of physics allow for it, but searching for the query brings up websites where people vaguely act like there is a way, and I found a tutorial for sewing an elastic into a waistband and

Comments

[sushidog]

I'm not sure where you want the elastic, but you've got a couple of options; the neat way to do it is to make a channel in your fabric, by folding down a hem just slightly deeper than the elastic, and then threading the elastic through that and joining it together, like you'd have at the waistband of a pair of pyjamas.
A lightly less tidy but also less fiddly option (since it's for a plushy) is to sew the elastic to the wrong side of the fabric, right near the edge; stretch the elastic before attaching it, and it will then pull the woven fabric in at that point.
So basically, with a woven, the neckline or waist band or whatever of the fabric needs to be big enough to go over the head or the hips, and then the elastic, when unstretched, should be the circumference of the neck or waist, but should stretch enough to go over. The fabric isn't going to sit flat, because it will be gathered at that point.

[insaneladybug]

Yeah, I need it for the collar of the shirt. The tutorial I saw was for the "attach to the wrong side of the fabric" way. I was nervous to try it without some more confirmation that it could work, since it would be the last thing I'd be doing with the shirt and I'd hate to ruin it and have to do the whole thing over. Then I just wonder how one manages to stretch the elastic and keep it stretched while attaching it, LOL. Seems like it would snap back so easily.

Thanks!

[demiraks_world]

Try it out on scrap before doing the shirt.

Another option instead of a zipper is to basically make a notch opening that closes with velcro. Open to fit over the head and then close when it's on. I feel like I see this on store bought doll/plush clothing all the time.

[insaneladybug]

Yeah, a good idea.

Also a possibility! Thanks for the tip!