Technical
What is Spandex?
Spandex is a man-made elastic fiber. It is derived from crude oil and is described in chemical terms as segmented polyurethane. It stretches under tension and recovers its original length when tension is relaxed. It can be stretched four to seven times its original length. It is combined with other ‘hard’ yarns to produce elastane stretch fabrics.
Essentially, Lycra® and Spandex are the same thing. Lycra® is a brand name. Spandex is the generic name used in the US and Canada for elastane. Elastane is the name used in the rest of the world.
KNITTED STRETCH FABRICS
1-Way Stretch (Circular Knits)
Circular knits containing spandex have maximum stretch in the width direction and limited stretch in the length direction. Cotton Spandex jersey is a common stretch circular knit.
2-Way Stretch (Warp Knit Raschel)
Raschel warp knits containing spandex have maximum elasticity in the length direction (warp) and limited stretch in the width (weft or fill). Raschels, Satins, power-nets and laces are all common raschel fabrics.
4-Way stretch (Warp knit Tricot)
Tricot warp knits stretch in all directions. They are eminently suitable for swimwear, costumes, body wear and active wear.
WASHING INSTRUCTIONS FOR SPANDEX CONTAINING FABRICS
Heat and light are the enemies of all stretch fabrics. Elastane yarns degrade over time when exposed to heat and light. Stretch fabrics should be treated with great care to ensure long-lasting comfort and performance.
HAND-WASH / COLD WATER MACHINE WASH
LOW-HEAT TUMBLE DRY / GENTLE CYCLE
LINE DRY (LOW-HEAT IRON)
DO NOT BLEACH
SUITABLE FOR DRY CLEAN