When it comes to sewing with luxury water resistant fabrics, these materials can be a little tricky to work with, but with the right tips, you’ll be able to tackle any project with confidence.
Cutting Tools
When you’re working with luxury water resistant fabrics, it’s important to use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter; dull tools can snag or distort the fabric, leading to frayed edges that are anything but stylish. If you want to make your life easier, consider investing in some fabric scissors specifically for waterproof materials.
Seam Allowances
Now that you have your pieces cut out, think about your seam allowances – waterproof fabrics can be a bit thicker than your average cotton, so be mindful of how much fabric you’re allowing for seams. A seam allowance of around 1/2 inch is usually sufficient, but always check your pattern for recommendations. Using a slightly wider seam will help prevent any fraying and ensure a sturdy hold.
Use a Walking Foot
One of the best tools for sewing luxury water resistant fabrics like the ones from https://extex.co.uk/fabric-collections is a walking foot. This nifty attachment grips the top layer of fabric and feeds it through the sewing machine at the same rate as the bottom layer, helping to prevent slipping or shifting. This is especially helpful with waterproof fabrics, as they tend to be a bit slippery!
Stay Away from Ironing
While ironing is typically your best friend in the sewing world, it’s best to stay away from it when working with waterproof materials. The heat can damage the fabric and compromise its water resistance so instead, try using a seam roller to flatten seams or simply finger-press them.
Choose the Right Fabric
Lastly, when working with waterproof materials, it’s essential to choose the right fabric for your project. There are many luxury water resistant fabrics out there, each with its own properties; some popular choices include nylon, polyester, and even certain canvas fabrics. Make sure to pick one that suits your needs in terms of weight, flexibility, and, of course, water resistance.