You’ve got a few useful options, depending on your project:

• Elastic sewing thread: Thin, stretchy thread used mainly for smocking, shirring, and gentle gathering. Commonly available in black or white and a range of yardages.
• Stretch thread: A soft, elastic thread that can be used in the needle and bobbin to create flexible seams on knits.
• Flat braided elastic: Wider, non-thread elastic for waistbands, cuffs, and casings; comes in various widths.
• Round cord elastic: Great for drawstrings, headbands, and closures.
• Clear elastic: Transparent elastic often used for stabilizing seams.

On the category page, you can use filters to narrow by color, width, type, and yardage to find a good fit.

The right needle can vary with fabric and technique:

• Shirring/gathering (elastic in the bobbin): A universal needle (around size 80/12) typically works well because the top thread is standard sewing thread.
• Knits with stretch thread in the needle: A ballpoint or stretch needle can help reduce skipped stitches and fabric snags.
• Sewing through flat or cord elastic: Consider a larger needle (such as 90/14) so it can pierce thicker layers more cleanly.

Tip: Always test on a scrap of your project fabric and adjust size or type as needed. Slowing your stitch speed and using fresh needles can also support smoother stitching.

Many sewists use elastic thread on a standard machine for shirring or light gathering. A general approach is:

1. Wind the bobbin by hand with elastic thread, keeping even, light tension.
2. Thread the needle with regular sewing thread.
3. Set a longer straight stitch (about 3–4 mm) and sew a test swatch.
4. Adjust top tension slightly if needed to balance stitches; small changes can help.
5. Sew without stretching the fabric, and secure ends by tying off or gentle backstitching.
6. Steam-press lightly to encourage gathering, as appropriate for your fabric.

Machine designs vary, so your manual and the thread’s spool instructions can offer useful guidance. Results can differ by fabric weight and fiber content.

Shirring creates soft, stretchy gathers—great for waistlines or bodices. Here’s a simple way to start:

1. Prep the fabric: Mark parallel guide lines (e.g., 3/8–1/2 inch apart). Lightweight fabrics tend to gather more easily.
2. Load your machine: Wind elastic thread onto the bobbin by hand; use regular thread on top.
3. Sew rows with a longer straight stitch (about 3–4 mm), keeping rows evenly spaced.
4. Secure ends by tying threads or gentle backstitching.
5. Steam-press to help the rows draw up; add rows for more gather.

Adjustments to bobbin winding tension, top tension, and stitch length may help you fine-tune the effect. Testing on a scrap of the same fabric is always a good idea.

Good storage can help maintain stretch and reduce breakage:

• Keep it cool and dry: Store away from heat, direct sunlight, and humidity, which can degrade elastic fibers over time.
• Protect from dust and oils: Use resealable bags or containers; avoid contact with solvents.
• Avoid pre-stretching: Leave thread relaxed on the spool. Use clips or a small sleeve to prevent unwinding.
• Rotate stock: Label purchase dates and use older spools first.
• Test before projects: Give a gentle stretch on a scrap; if it feels brittle or snaps, consider replacing it.

Storing similar supplies together and keeping them organized can make setup smoother when you’re ready to sew.