1 1/2 Inch Wide (40mm)
Which Fold Over Elastic Width Should You Choose?
We carry solid fold over elastic in four widths so you can choose the size that best fits your project. If you want something soft and versatile, start with 5/8". If you need more coverage or a bolder finished edge, move up to 3/4", 1", or 1 1/2" depending on the application.
5/8" Fold Over Elastic
Our most popular everyday FOE size. Soft, flexible, and easy to work with for accessories and lightweight sewing projects.
- Best for hair ties and baby headbands
- Great all-around choice for small projects
- Softest feel and most versatile width
3/4" Fold Over Elastic
A balanced width that offers more coverage than 5/8" while still staying soft and comfortable for wearable projects.
- Great for bralettes and garment edging
- Nice balance of support and flexibility
- Useful when you want a slightly bolder edge
1" Fold Over Elastic
A wider FOE option for projects that need more coverage, more visual presence, or a more structured finished look.
- Great for waistbands and larger trim
- Better for projects where 5/8" looks too narrow
- Adds more structure and visual weight
1 1/2" Fold Over Elastic
Our widest FOE option for projects that need maximum coverage, a bold finished edge, or a larger-scale trim application.
- Best for large trim and specialty applications
- Useful when a standard width is not wide enough
- Creates the boldest finished edge of all four sizes
What Is 1 1/2" Fold Over Elastic Used For?
1 1/2" fold over elastic is used for projects that need more than a standard edge finish. It is especially helpful for wide trim, specialty waist applications, costume sewing, and larger garment details where a narrow FOE would not provide enough coverage or visual balance.
Wide Trim Applications
The broad profile of 1 1/2" FOE makes it ideal for trim work where you want the elastic itself to be a noticeable part of the finished design.
See Trim IdeasWaist & Edge Finishing
This width can be used where extra edge coverage is needed, especially on larger or more substantial projects that benefit from a wider finished band.
Learn More TechniquesCostume & Specialty Sewing
40mm FOE is often a smart option for costumes, performance wear, and creative builds that need a wider elastic to match the scale of the design.
Browse More InspirationProduction & Repeat Builds
Makers working on repeatable specialty products may prefer 1 1/2" FOE when their pattern consistently calls for a wider, more coverage-heavy finish.
About Our Maker CommunityWhy Makers Choose 1 1/2" FOE
- Our widest FOE option for maximum coverage
- Defined center crease for easier folding
- Smooth stretch with a bold finished appearance
- Solid colors that work well in larger-scale projects
- Available in 5 yard and 100 yard rolls
- Prepared to arrive wrinkle-free and tangle-free
When a project needs a wider elastic edge, 1 1/2" fold over elastic gives you more room to work and a more substantial finished look. It is especially useful when narrower widths would feel too small for the scale of the garment or accessory.
For makers tackling specialty sewing, wide trim, costume work, or larger-format designs, 40mm FOE offers a practical way to add stretch, coverage, and a strong visual finish all at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this really 1 1/2" wide?
We label this size as 1 1/2" for easier shopping, but the actual metric width is 40mm.
When should I use 1 1/2" fold over elastic?
Use this width when you need extra coverage, a wider finished edge, or a stronger visual presence than standard FOE widths can provide.
What is it most commonly used for?
It is commonly used for wide trim, specialty sewing, costume work, larger garment edges, and projects where a narrower elastic would not be enough.
Do you offer bulk options?
Yes. You can choose between 5 yard rolls for smaller projects and 100 yard rolls for larger runs or repeat production.
Does it arrive ready to use?
Yes. Each roll is prepared to arrive wrinkle-free and tangle-free so it is easy to handle right out of the package.