50gsm Polyester Cross-Stretch Base Fabric — Horizontal Flex Interlining for Garments and Embroidery | 61"

50gsm polyester cross-stretch base fabric. Heavier than our 22gsm version — you pick it up and you feel the difference. Smooth to the touch, not slippery. The key feature: it stretches crosswise, not lengthwise. Pull it horizontally and it gives a bit. Pull it vertically and it holds firm. 155cm wide, 17 yards per kilo. If you need a base fabric with just enough flex to move with the garment without losing its structure, this is it.

Polyester, so it's low-maintenance. Won't shrink, won't wrinkle much, won't lose its shape in the wash. The crosswise stretch is built into the weave, not added as a coating or finish, so it stays consistent through repeated wear and washing. Cuts cleanly without fraying, sews without bunching. For linings and interlinings that need a bit of give in one direction, it holds up.

Garment linings that need to move with the body but not stretch out of shape. Interlinings for jackets, vests, and structured pieces where you want a bit of horizontal flex. Embroidery backing that benefits from some give without losing stability. Anything that needs a smooth, reliable base fabric with controlled stretch in one direction.

1. What does "cross-stretch" mean? Is it four-way stretch?

No. Cross-stretch means it stretches horizontally — across the width of the fabric — but not vertically. It's a one-way flex. If you need full four-way stretch, we have swimwear and activewear fabrics with elastane for that. If you need zero stretch, we have our standard polyester base fabrics. This one's in between — a bit of give where you want it, structure where you need it.

2. 50gsm — is this heavier than your other base fabrics?

Yes. Our standard base fabrics range from 15gsm to 40gsm. At 50gsm, this one is the heaviest in the base fabric range. More body, more coverage, less sheer. Good for structured pieces and applications where you need the lining to hold its own shape.

3. Is this see-through? Do I need a lining under it?

At 50gsm, it gives solid coverage. Not completely opaque like our heavyweight swimwear fabric, but enough for most garment lining and interlining applications. If you're using it under a very light or white outer fabric, go with a lighter shade to be safe.

4. How does this compare to your other base fabrics without stretch?

The standard base fabrics have no stretch at all — they hold their shape rigidly. This cross-stretch version gives you horizontal flex without losing vertical stability. It's useful for garments that need to move across the body — like jacket backs or fitted dress panels — without the full stretch of an elastane blend.

5. Is this fabric suitable for medical or healthcare applications?

No. Our fabrics are designed and produced for apparel, linings, interlinings, embroidery backing, and craft uses. We do not currently manufacture or supply fabrics for medical, filtration, or industrial applications. If you need medical-grade textiles, we recommend consulting a specialist supplier.