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Use elastic thread or quality synthetic thread like Gutermann or Coats - it'll save you time and your seams won't break when you stretch the fabric. Regular polyester thread can work too but you really need to use a stretch needle (like a 75/11 or 90/14) or you'll get skipped stitches everywhere. The key thing is that your thread moves with the fabric without cracking, so avoid cheap stuff that's too stiff.
Avoid overly rigid or cheap synthetic threads - they'll snap when the fabric stretches. You want a specialized elastic thread for stretch, or failing that, good-quality polyester thread that has some flexibility to it. You can also use regular thread with a stretch needle and adjust your machine tension, but honestly elastic thread is still the most reliable solution if you're sewing stretch regularly.
The guys are right about the quality, but here's something people often forget: lower your machine tension 🧵 With stretch fabric, if you keep the tension normal, the thread will break or create weird loops. Turn it down a notch or two, test on a scrap, and your seams will stretch with the fabric instead of snapping the second it moves.
Quality polyester thread is definitely the foundation, you're right about that. But what nobody's mentioned: try a stretch needle (size 75/11 or 90/14), it makes all the difference. A stretch needle has a larger eye and a special groove that protects the thread, so you get way less breakage and skipped stitches. Combine that with lowered tension and you should be golden.
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