Short definition
Seam elongation describes the ability of a seam to stretch under load without losing its functionality or suffering damage. The required seam elongation depends on the material, garment construction and intended application.
The trend towards close-fitting and comfortable clothing requires a high level of manufacturing expertise with regard to stretchable materials in general and elastic seams in particular. AMANN has developed Sabaflex, a highly elastic sewing thread, for this purpose. The seam elongation can be tested in accordance with DIN EN ISO 13934-1 (simple strip method).
Quick facts
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Seam quality |
| Main purpose | Allow controlled seam extension |
| Influences | Sewing thread, stitch type, fabric elasticity, seam construction |
| Typical applications | Sportswear, knitwear, workwear, technical textiles |
| Related topics | Thread elongation, elasticity, stitch types, seam stability |
Also known as
Technical terms
- Seam elongation
- Seam extensibility
- Seam stretch
- Seam extension
- Seam elasticity
Common descriptions
People often search for:
- Stretchable seam
- Elastic seam
- Flexible seam
- Seam stretches
- Seam does not stretch
- Seam breaks when stretched
- Seam too rigid
- Stretch performance
- Seam movement
- Stretchable stitching
Alternative terminology
- Stretch behaviour
- Seam flexibility
- Elastic seam performance
- Extensible seam
International terminology
| Language | Common terminology |
|---|---|
| English | Seam elongation, Seam stretch, Seam extensibility, Seam elasticity |
| German | Nahtdehnung, Dehnfähigkeit der Naht, Elastische Naht |
| French | Allongement de la couture, Élasticité de la couture |
| Italian | Allungamento della cucitura, Elasticità della cucitura |
| Spanish | Elongación de la costura, Elasticidad de la costura |
| Chinese | 接缝伸长率, 接缝弹性 |
| Vietnamese | Độ giãn đường may, Độ đàn hồi đường may |
FAQ
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Seam elongation describes how much a seam can stretch under tensile stress along the seam direction.
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It is mainly influenced by the thread stock in the seam, which depends on stitch type, stitch density and stitch balance.
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Close-fitting and stretch garments require elastic seams to ensure comfort and durability.
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Yes. Different stitch types provide different levels of elasticity.
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Yes. Stitch density influences the amount of thread in the seam and therefore its stretch behaviour.
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Yes. Highly elastic sewing threads can significantly increase seam elongation.
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Seam elongation can be tested according to DIN EN ISO 13934-1 using the strip method.