Spandex is often used in the construction of slipcovers. About 4 to 6 percent of the build on a slipcover may be made with spandex. But what makes this material so popular on slipcovers? It’s normally something that is found on athletic apparel but it can be worthwhile if used right on your furniture. Spandex, or elastane or Lycra as it is also known, is a synthetic material. It was introduced in the early 1960s by the DuPont company. It was designed as a material used to be stronger than traditional rubber while also being less likely to break or wear out. This consists of polyester and polyurethane materials mixed together. The two are blended into the same polymers and mixed through a careful manufacturing process. Magnesium is often used to finish the surface to create a smooth texture. The fibers that are produced can be strung together like with any other fabric and then applied onto a surface. As the spandex is arranged, it will create a strong body that flexes well. Where Does Spandex Go On a Slipcover? Spandex typically goes around the ends of a slipcover. These include ends where the cover goes around the edges of the furniture. This assists in securing a tight fit while flexing itself along with the natural shape of the furniture in question. This is arranged around the ends so it will not stick out from the rest of the surface. It is still painted in the same color as that of the rest of the fabric. Sometimes the spandex can be blended in with the rest of the fabric in general. This is to give it a flexible body all the way through. The total amount of spandex used is minimal in comparison with the rest of the cotton or polyester or other material but it can make a real difference. Why Use Spandex? The benefits of using spandex on cushion slipcovers are especially great to notice:

• It is light in weight and is not too hard to use.
• It is very flexible and easy to apply onto any end of your furniture. It does not produce lots of wrinkles. The fabric simply secures itself along the ends of your furniture with ease.
• The stretching that comes with the spandex isn’t going to cause indentations in the fabric or lots of other stress marks. It is flexible enough to where the fabric will not weaken or wear out quickly.
• You can get spandex dyed in a variety of colors to match up with the rest of the fabric being used on your slipcover.
• The risk of needle damage will be minimal. As a slipcover is prepared, the spandex will not lose its ability to stretch and flex as a series of stitching tools moves through it. This allows you to have a surface that is smooth and comfortable without being overly hard to use.

You will be pleased at how well spandex can be used when getting a slipcover ready. Check on how well your cover is being prepared with a strong spandex body so you will have something easy to apply and use on any surface in your home.