What we can do
Waistbands
We replace worn elastic in pants, skirts and shorts, or adjust how tight it sits. We check the casing and stitching around it too.
Cuffs and ankles
Stretched-out cuffs and ankles on everyday clothes or workwear can be refreshed. How the elastic is sewn in affects the work involved.
Delicate and stretch garments
Lingerie, swimwear and activewear need an elastic that suits the fabric. Bring yours in and we’ll check what will work.
Adding elastic or panels
Adding elastic can make a garment comfier, but it also changes how it looks. We’ll talk through the finish before we start.
Swimwear, maternity and activewear
Swimwear can be fitted with chlorine-resistant elastic. Elastic panels add stretch and comfort to maternity wear and activewear, and heavy-duty elastic suits outdoor gear and workwear.
Lace and decorative elastic
Swap plain elastic for lace, a trim or a coloured decorative band. Bring the garment so we can choose the width and look you want.
How much does it cost?
The type of elastic, how it’s sewn in, the fabric’s condition and any added panels all affect the price.
Replacing enclosed elastic, tightening a waistband and adding new elastic are different jobs. We’ll price yours after checking the material and how it’s sewn in.
Bring it in and we’ll take a look, talk you through the work and confirm your price before you leave it with us. If you have matching fabric, buttons or measurements, bring those too.
Bring back the stretch
Waistbands, cuffs and enclosed elastic
Tired elastic usually needs replacing, not just shortening. We check whether it sits inside a casing or is stitched into the garment, how we can reach it and the width and stretch it needs. Waistbands, cuffs and ankles are each a little different. Trying it on at the fitting helps us set the tension just how you like it.
Adding elastic or changing the look
Adding elastic where there wasn’t any changes the shape of a garment. We’ll show you where it would go and how the fabric will gather. For exposed or decorative elastic, choose the colour and finish as well as the comfort. Lingerie, swimwear and other stretchy pieces need a different approach, so check with us first.
Your questions
Can the elastic be replaced without changing the outside?
Often. If the elastic sits inside a casing, it’s usually a simple swap. Elastic stitched straight into the waistband takes more work.
Do you work on swimwear elastic?
Yes. Bring it in and we’ll check its condition and choose an elastic and finish that will last.
Can you tighten elastic without replacing it?
Sometimes. If the elastic has lost its stretch, shortening it won’t help for long. We’ll check it and recommend a repair or a replacement.
Should I buy the elastic?
Ask us first. The width, stretch and look need to suit the garment. If you already have some, bring it along and we’ll check it.
Can an elastic waist be made bigger?
Often. We’ll check whether the elastic can be replaced or adjusted and whether there’s enough fabric in the waistband. Sometimes the fabric, not the elastic, sets the limit.
How long will the work take, and is express available?
Most simple jobs are ready in 3–5 days, and more complex work in 1–2 weeks. In a rush? Express options are available for an extra fee. Just tell us your deadline. Express rates are 30% for same-day, 20% for next-day and 10% for two-day work, or 40% for same-day and 30% for next-day on Saturdays. Express depends on how busy we are, so we’ll confirm it and your pickup time before we start.