How to stretch silk clothing

Depending on the quality of the material and the type of weave or knit, doing this may ruin the fabric. It may also stretch underwater only to shrink back to the original size after it has hung and dried. Be aware, however, if you try either of these methods, even if they are successful for you, some textiles will have a shorter lifespan after they are stretched out.

To stretch this material, mild products must be used to relax the fiber strands. In this method, water and shampoo (or conditioner) can successfully stretch the materials. Follow the steps below to stretch your own silk clothing.

1. Fill a bucket or sink with lukewarm water.
2. For every gallon of water add 1 tablespoon baby shampoo and/or gentle conditioner.
3. Mix the water and shampoo and/or conditioner until it looks like everything has completely dissolved and the water is soapy.
4. Soak your silk for anywhere from thirty minutes to one hour.
5. After at least thirty minutes, you may begin to stretch the fabric while it remains underwater.
6. Once you are satisfied or once the hour is up, remove the material and rinse it off with cool water, then hang it to dry.

Depending on the quality of the threads, they may not be able to stretch one foot. Caution should be used when trying this. If the thread breaks, you may stretch it too much.