Powernet Information, by Pauline from Australia

Now if you are not sure about something, please ask. If you don't want to ask because you think it's too dumb, then Contact the instructor. The only dumb question is the one you don't ask!!! I can also post pictures of any notions you are not sure about.

Powernet is the support in a bra. Contrary to popular belief it’s not the straps that support your breasts, it’s the bra band, the piece that goes around you. This page discusses Powernet as it is used in the bra band.

Powernet comes in weights from quite light to really heavy duty, so heavy duty that it can be difficult to even stretch it. The weight of the powernet used depends on how much weight you are trying to support and what your undergarment is designed for. Remember that Powernet is used in girdles and form fitting undergarments.

If you are lucky and don’t have to support a lot of weight in your bra, then you can use satin lycra, cotton lycra, or any of the lightweight powernets. When you have much to support, for extra support and longer bra life, use two layers of light weight fabric, or use one or two layers of a medium weight powernet.

On bras for very well endowed ladies, I always use either the heavy powernet or heavier lycra, which I sometimes double for even more support.

On merry widows where some figure control is wanted, I use a medium weight to heavy weight powernet in the back and center panel, and prettier fabrics on the sides. When they want all round figure control, I use Powernet on the sides. Powernet can also be made into ladies’ briefs (knickers) as front or side panels or the back for control briefs. These can also be layered for more control.

I think it’s a good idea to go looking in lingerie shops. Don’t just look at your own size, but smaller and larger sizes as well. Feel the weights and see how they have combined fabrics to make the garments functional and feminine at the same time, especially in larger sizes. Looking and observing - and writing some covert notes - will give you a better understanding of the functions of these fabrics and how to apply this knowledge for better garment making in the future.

On to Class 1, Part 1...