Coats & Clark Eloflex Stretchable Thread User Manual

1. Product Overview

Coats Eloflex Stretchable Thread is an innovative thread designed to create soft, secure, and stretchable seams. It is suitable for use in conventional sewing machines, both in the top and bobbin, without requiring special stitches. For overlock machines, it forms smooth loops, providing optimal stretch for performance sportswear and other stretch fabrics.

Image 1.1: Front view of the Coats Eloflex Stretchable Thread packaging, displaying the "It stretches!" slogan and the thread spool inside.

2. Key Features

• Material: 100% Polybutylene Terephthalate, ensuring durability and stretch.
• Colorfast: Maintains color integrity, even when exposed to chlorine bleach.
• Length: Each spool contains 225 yards (205 meters) of thread.
• Versatility: Can be used in both conventional sewing machines (top and bobbin) and overlock machines.
• Applications: Ideal for leotards, gym clothing, cosplay, swimwear, knit sportswear, and stretch denim.

3. Setup and Preparation

Proper setup ensures optimal performance of Eloflex Stretchable Thread.

1. Needle Selection: For conventional sewing machines, use a universal or stretch needle size 11/14. For hand sewing, a size 7/8 needle is recommended.
2. Machine Threading: Thread your sewing machine as you normally would for standard polyester thread. Eloflex can be used in both the needle and bobbin.
3. Tension Adjustment: Start with your machine's standard tension settings. Eloflex is designed to work without significant tension adjustments, but minor tweaks may be necessary depending on your machine and fabric.
4. Test Stitching: Always perform a test stitch on a scrap piece of your fabric before beginning your project to ensure desired stitch quality and stretch.

Image 3.1: Back of the packaging illustrating recommended needle sizes for machine (11/14) and hand sewing (7/8).

4. Operating Instructions

Using Eloflex Stretchable Thread is similar to using regular thread, with added benefits for stretch fabrics.

4.1. Conventional Sewing Machine Use

• Stitch Type: No special stitches are required. Straight stitch or zigzag stitch can be used. For maximum stretch, a zigzag stitch is often preferred.
• Speed: Sew at a consistent, moderate speed. While Eloflex is durable, excessively high speeds can sometimes lead to issues with any thread.
• Fabric Handling: Do not stretch the fabric while sewing. Allow the feed dogs to move the fabric naturally. The thread itself provides the stretch.

4.2. Overlock Machine Use

• Loop Formation: Eloflex forms smooth loops in an overlock machine, which is crucial for achieving optimal stretch in performance sportswear and other highly elastic garments.
• Differential Feed: Utilize your overlock machine's differential feed if working with very stretchy or delicate knit fabrics to prevent stretching or puckering.

Image 4.1: Detailed view of the Eloflex thread on its spool, highlighting its texture and color.

5. Maintenance and Care

To ensure the longevity of your sewn items and the thread itself, follow these care instructions:

• Washing: Garments sewn with Eloflex thread can be machine washed.
• Drying: Tumble dry is permissible.
• Bleach: The thread is colorfast, even with chlorine bleach, allowing for robust cleaning of garments.
• Storage: Store thread spools in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while sewing with Eloflex Stretchable Thread, consider the following common solutions:

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information regarding Coats & Clark Eloflex Stretchable Thread, please refer to the product packaging or contact Coats & Clark directly through their official website. General product support and additional resources can often be found on the manufacturer's website.

Manufacturer: Coats & Clark

Website: makeitcoats.com