Four-Way Stretch Frequently Asked Questions
Short answers to the questions buyers ask most often about Four-Way Stretch.
What does it mean?
extension in both length and width. Working figures for Four-Way Stretch normally sit around 30-60% typical extension in mainstream production. Note ISO 13934-1 cyclic extension on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
What value should be specified?
Start from 30-60% typical extension and adjust for the end use of the garment. Record elastane content alongside Four-Way Stretch, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside 30-60% typical extension usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
How is it tested?
ISO 13934-1 cyclic extension. Keeping reference values for Four-Way Stretch lets suppliers quote without extra sampling rounds. Ask for conditioning details together with ISO 13934-1 cyclic extension, since both affect the reading.
Why does it change between lots?
Process variables such as finishing temperature and elastane batch cause the normal spread of results. Working figures for Four-Way Stretch normally sit around 30-60% typical extension in mainstream production. Note ISO 13934-1 cyclic extension on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Can results be compared across suppliers?
Only when the same standard revision and conditioning are used; otherwise measurements are not equivalent. Record elastane content alongside Four-Way Stretch, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside 30-60% typical extension usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
