Cotton-Elastane Jersey
A single jersey with a small elastane content added for two-way stretch and shape recovery.
Also known as: Cotton spandex, Cotton lycra, Stretch jersey
beginner
Cotton-elastane jersey is a knit fabric of mostly cotton with a few per cent elastane, giving comfortable stretch and much better recovery than plain cotton jersey — the standard for fitted tees and underwear.
What it is
Cotton-elastane jersey is a weft-knit blend — typically 92–98% cotton with 2–8% elastane (spandex/Lycra) — where the elastane filament is knitted or plated in alongside the cotton loops. The elastane adds stretch in one or both directions and, crucially, elastic recovery, so garments move with the body and snap back to shape instead of bagging out like pure cotton jersey. Weight is usually similar to single jersey, around 160–220 GSM.
This blend is the default for fitted T-shirts, leggings, underwear, base layers and bodysuits where comfort stretch and shape retention both matter. The cotton keeps it breathable and soft against skin while the elastane handles the mechanics. Care is important: high heat and chlorine degrade elastane over time, so warm washes and low-heat drying preserve the stretch. Even a small elastane percentage transforms how a cotton knit fits and lasts.
How to apply it
Add 2–5% elastane to cotton jersey for fitted tees and underwear that must recover their shape; go higher (up to ~8%) for leggings and high-movement garments.
Related entries
Sources & further reading
- Spandex — Wikipedia contributors (article)