Stretch loops are great for decorating and fastening boxes, jars, programs and more. They can come with bows, knots, tassels and various types of metal ends.
Stretch loops are affordable and easy to apply. The most difficult aspect of using stretch loops is determining what size you will need, especially if you do not have samples. The stretch of the loop needs to be accounted for, as well as how you will apply them.
Finding the right loop size should not have to be exasperating, though. Below are some easy ways to find what you are looking for.
Ways to apply stretch loops to your item:
First, you must decide how you are going to apply your loops. Stretch bows for boxes are usually applied in 3 different ways; around the narrow girth, around the wide girth, or corner to corner.
Stretch bow around narrow girth
Stretch bows around corner-to-corner
Accounting for the stretch
The next step is to get a measurement of the circumference you need the loop to wrap around. This can easily be done with a piece of non-elastic string. Wrap the string around the item the way you would want your stretch bows applied and cut the string where it meets the other end. This will give you the circumference of the loop before accounting for the stretch.
* The criteria below is for elastic and not stretch ribbon. Stretch ribbon has less stretch to it than elastic and so measurements will vary. Please inquire for more information on stretch ribbon.
4 inch circumferences or less:
If the measurement of your string is 4 inches or less, you do not have to account for the stretch of the loop. Getting an elastic loop any smaller than your item’s circumference may make the loop stretch too tightly on your item. If you have a small jewelry box, stack of small cards, a bottle neck or something of a similar size, then most likely you will need the same stretch loop circumference.
5 to 15 inches:
If your measurement is 5 to 15 inches, you will need to account for the stretch by subtracting one inch from the measured circumference. This will give you the circumference of the stretch loop you need.
16 inches or more:
For measurements of 16 inches or more, your desired stretch loop circumference is the measurement of your string minus at least 1 inch. This means that there may be more than one size stretch loop that will fit snug around your item. For example, if you measure a piece of string wrapped around your item to be 18 inches, then a 17, 16 or even 15 inch circumference stretch loop may work well for your item.
Loop Circumference
Loop Length
Loop Diameter
Note that circumference is a measurement from one end of the string to the other. The loop length is a measurement from one end of the loop to the other when the loop is laid out as shown above. Loop diameter is not the same as loop length and is not used as a measurement.
Finish Line Custom Finishing provides stretch loops of all kinds. Stretch loops are included in Finish Line elastic loop, pre-tied bow and program tassel product lines. View these product line pages to learn more, request quotes and samples and begin shopping.