Wholesale Knitted Elastic – Soft and Flexible

Knitted elastic – softness and comfort against the skin

Knitted elastic is produced on knitting machines, where elastomeric yarns are bound with polyester or polyamide loops. The result is a soft, light and flexible band with a smooth surface that sits comfortably against the body. That is why knitted elastic is the first choice for lingerie, nightwear, childrenswear, sports tops, leggings and home textiles – wherever comfort matters more than firm support.

Compared with woven elastic, knitted elastic is thinner and more pliable, with softer edges. It can be sewn directly to the fabric with a zigzag or coverstitch without losing much of its stretch, which makes bulk sewing easier.

Advantages of knitted elastic

• soft handle, suitable for direct contact with the skin;
• low weight – does not weigh down light and stretch fabrics;
• even stretch and good recovery after stretching;
• easy to attach with zigzag, overlock or coverstitch;
• keeps its properties through regular washing at a suitable temperature.

Widths and applications

Knitted elastic is available in a wide range of widths. An approximate guide by product:

• 5–10 mm – lingerie, bras, swimwear, face masks, sleeve cuffs;
• 10–30 mm – childrenswear, T-shirts, skirts, nightwear, cuffs;
• 30–50 mm – jogger and legging waistbands, sportswear, loungewear;
• non-standard widths – on request, according to the pattern.

Besides the classic smooth version, there are knitted elastics with a soft plush back for lingerie, with a decorative picot edge or with lurex yarn for visible details.

Pantone colours and logo elastic

We stock knitted elastic in white, black and the most popular standard colours. For collections with a specific palette, we dye to Pantone or to a sample so the elastic matches the jersey. On request we also make knitted elastic with a woven-in logo or lettering – a popular solution for visible waistbands on lingerie and sportswear.

Composition and care

Knitted elastic most often contains polyester or polyamide with rubber or spandex; for products with a more natural feel, cotton versions are also used. We recommend washing garments with elastic at a moderate temperature and not ironing over stretched elastic, as high heat damages the elastomeric yarns. When you enquire, tell us how the product will be cared for and we will suggest a composition that withstands that washing.

How to choose the right knitted elastic

Start with the fabric and how the elastic will be applied. For fine jersey, choose a narrower, softer elastic; when inserting into a casing, the width should be a few millimetres less than the casing; when sewing on directly, look for an elastic that does not fray when pierced by the needle. If the product needs strong support and the elastic must not roll – for example trousers and workwear – woven elastic is the better choice. You will find a full comparison of the types in the elastics section.

Ordering knitted elastic wholesale

Polkom supplies knitted elastic to clothing manufacturers, ateliers and distributors across the EU. Send us the width, colour, approximate quantity and a photo of the product; we will suggest a suitable article and a sample if needed. Minimum quantities depend on the article – send an enquiry via the contact page or at info@polkom.com. See also the rest of the haberdashery in our catalogue.