Lycras

Recovery is the point

A lycra blend stretches in both directions and, more importantly, springs back. That recovery is what keeps a leotard or a swimsuit fitting after repeated wear rather than going slack at the knees and seat.

Use it for dance, gymnastics and skating costumes, swimwear, leggings and activewear. Sew with a ballpoint or stretch needle and a narrow zigzag or an overlocker so the seam can stretch with the cloth — a plain straight stitch will snap. Cut on a single layer and let the fabric feed without pulling it through.