How to Stop Non-Roll Elastic From Curling at the Edges
By Prymamericas.com: Sewing, quilting, and knitting supplies | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: How-to Guides
Non-roll elastic still curls at the edges when the casing is too wide, the elastic is too narrow, or you stretch it while stitching. Here is the fix.
Quick answer
Non-roll elastic curls at the edges when the elastic is narrower than the casing, when the casing is too wide, or when you stretch the elastic while stitching. Use 3/4 inch non-roll elastic in a casing that matches its width, stitch without stretching the elastic, and anchor the ends. If the curl is already set, remove the stitching, replace the elastic, and re-sew with the correct casing width.
Check the casing width against the elastic width
A casing that is wider than the elastic lets the elastic twist and fold inside the channel. For 3/4 inch non-roll elastic, the finished casing should be about 7/8 inch to 1 inch wide. If your casing is wider, the elastic has room to roll. To fix this, stitch a second row of casing stitching to narrow the channel, or remove the casing and re-cut it to the correct width.
Stop stretching the elastic while you stitch
Stretching the elastic as you sew it into the casing forces the edges to curl once the elastic relaxes. Instead, pin the elastic at the seam lines and stitch through the center of the elastic without pulling it. Use a slightly longer stitch length and a walking foot if you have one. After stitching, the elastic should lie flat inside the casing with no tension.
Anchor the ends and distribute the fullness
Even with correct width and stitching, the ends of the elastic can curl if they are not anchored. Stitch vertically through the elastic at each side seam, catching the elastic without stretching it. Then pull the elastic to distribute the fabric evenly around the waistband. This prevents the elastic from rolling as the garment is worn and washed.
When to replace the elastic instead of fixing it
If the elastic has already been stretched and stitched, the curl may be permanent. Remove the casing stitching, take out the old elastic, and replace it with a fresh length. Use a new piece of 3/4 inch non-roll elastic and follow the correct casing width and stitching method. If the fabric casing is too wide or damaged, recut and resew the casing before inserting new elastic.
Diagnosis: why your elastic curls
- Symptom: elastic edges roll inside the casing: The elastic twists or folds at the edges, especially after washing. Check if the casing is wider than the elastic. If so, narrow the casing or use wider elastic.
- Likely cause: casing too wide: A casing more than 1/8 inch wider than the elastic allows movement. For 3/4 inch elastic, keep the finished casing between 7/8 inch and 1 inch. Measure your casing before sewing. If it is too wide, stitch a second row to narrow it.
- Likely cause: stretching during stitching: Pulling the elastic as you sew stretches it; when it relaxes, the edges curl. Pin the elastic at seam lines and stitch without tension. Use a longer stitch length.
- Corrective action: anchor the ends: Stitch vertically through the elastic at each side seam to lock it in place. This stops the elastic from rolling and keeps the waistband flat.
- Stop and replace if the curl is set: If the elastic has already been stretched and stitched, the curl may be permanent. Remove the old elastic, replace it with a fresh piece, and resew with the correct casing width.
Product facts that help
- 11306W 3/4" Non-Roll Elastic: Dritz 3/4 inch Non-Roll Elastic is designed for light to medium-weight fabrics and is roll and twist resistant. It is machine washable and dryable up to 200 degrees F. This width fits standard waistband casings and its roll-resistant design reduces curling when the casing is sized correctly.
- 1" Parachute Buckles, Black, 12 pc: Dritz Parachute Buckles are side release buckles that snap together and adjust straps on purses, bags, and totes. They fit 1-inch straps. If you are making adjustable straps for bags, these buckles provide a secure closure that will not open accidentally, but they are not a substitute for elastic in a waistband.
