Spandex dresses are designed to stretch while maintaining the original shape: that's why they are so comfortable. Unfortunately this means that it is difficult to permanently stretch them. Fortunately, by relaxing the fibers of the fabric, you can do it!
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Wear Spandex to Stretch it
Step 1. Immerse the garment in 50-60 ° C water for 30 minutes
If you want to stretch a spandex garment, washing it at high temperatures can help relax the fibers. Usually the hot water in the house reaches its maximum at just the required temperature, so you can wash the garment in the washing machine at the maximum temperature or fill the sink with only hot water and immerse the garment in it.
Step 2. Wear the garment when it is still wet
It won't be easy at first, but you should be able to slip it in a little at a time, even if it's slightly tight. The heat and humidity should help the spandex adapt to your body.
This method is only suitable if you need to stretch the material a little. If you can't wear the garment, try stretching it with weights
Step 3. Stay active for about an hour or until the garment dries
You need to let the garment air dry on your body for the fabric to stretch. Moving as much as possible will stretch the material even more.
- Try to make many different movements to stretch the fabric in all directions. For example, you can lean forward, run in place and try exercises like squats or jumping jacks.
- The garment will take more or less time to dry depending on the thickness of the fabric. A very thin spandex shirt will take 20-30 minutes, while a thicker pair of leggings will take over an hour.
Method 2 of 4: Stretch Spandex with Weights
Step 1. Immerse the garment in 50-60 ° C water
You can put it in the washing machine at maximum temperature or heat the water in a pot and then dip it inside. Both methods relax the fibers of the material which will stretch more easily.
Most home water heating systems reach that temperature maximum, so you should be able to use hot tap water
Step 2. Place the garment on a flat surface while it is still warm
You can use the ironing board or kitchen counter, floor or table of a material that is not damaged by water.
If you're not sure if your table is water resistant, try wetting it with a drop in a hidden spot. If it turns white you shouldn't stretch the spandex over it or water stains will remain
Step 3. Put a 1-2 kg weight on the garment
You can use the item of your choice, as long as it is heavy enough to hold the fabric in place when you stretch it. 1-2 kg weights should suffice.
- Try using training weights, a stack of books, or the leg of the bed.
- Make sure the weights are made of a water resistant material and do not stain the garment. For example, avoid painted wooden items.
Step 4. Stretch the fabric and hold the other end steady with a second weight
Pull the free part of the material as far as possible without tearing it, then hold it steady with another heavy object. The constant tension will help to permanently stretch the spandex.
Since spandex is designed to resume its original shape, you need to stretch it more than you think is necessary
Step 5. Let the fabric dry for at least an hour while it is stretching
If you pick up the garment that is still wet, the fibers will shorten as it dries. This will return to their original size, so make sure the spandex is perfectly dry before removing the weights.
- It will probably take about an hour for the fabric to dry completely, although some thicker materials will take longer. For best results, do not touch the garment for another hour after it has dried completely.
- Repeat if you want to stretch the garment even more.
Method 3 of 4: Soak the Spandex in Baby Shampoo
Step 1. Fill a basin with water at a temperature of approximately 30-32 ° C
You can use a basin, sink or bathtub. The water should be slightly warmer than room temperature and you will need at least a liter of it.
Step 2. Add baby shampoo or mild conditioner to the water
You will have to pour about 1 tablespoon for every liter of water.
- The water should take on a soap-like consistency.
- The shampoo relaxes the fibers of the fabric, allowing them to stretch.
Step 3. Soak the material in the water for approximately 30 minutes
Make sure it is completely submerged and wait at least half an hour so that the solution has time to soak into the fabric.
Step 4. Squeeze the fabric well to remove excess moisture
Do this until it stops dripping. Do not rinse it off, as the shampoo will continue to relax the fibers as you stretch the material.
If you still need to remove moisture, roll the garment between two towels for about 10 minutes
Step 5. Stretch the fabric and hold it in place with 1-2 kg weights
The shampoo should allow you to easily stretch the spandex beyond its normal limits. Once it is stretched as far as possible, place heavy objects like books, paperweights or training weights on the edges of the garment to keep it in place.
Make sure you choose items that won't be damaged by the moisture in the fabric. Also avoid varnished ones, such as wood, which can stain the garment
Step 6. Let the fabric rest for an hour or until it is completely dry
If you remove the weights too soon the fibers will begin to shorten and the fabric will return to its original shape.
It will probably take an hour for the fabric to dry completely
Method 4 of 4: Store the Spandex after Stretching it
Step 1. Do not expose the garment to heat
Heat can return the fibers to their original state. High temperatures are also capable of breaking the elastane inside the spandex, causing tears.
Step 2. Wash the garment in 24-27 ° C water when it gets dirty
Once stretched, wash it in cold water when you put it in the washing machine.
If you prefer to wash it by hand, fill the sink with water at room temperature, then add about a teaspoon of mild detergent. Hand wash the garment in water for 2-3 minutes or until it looks clean. Empty the sink, then rinse it with cold water
Step 3. Let the garment air dry for 2-3 hours after washing
It is best to let it dry naturally after each wash to protect the spandex fibers. To do this, place it on a flat surface, hang it on the drying rack or a clothesline with a clothespin.
