Hands up if you knew we stock PVC vinyl… This fabric can be a little sticky to handle… Read on for our top tips on sewing with PVC Vinyl Fabric
PVC vinyl is such a versatile fabric with a variety of finishing options…
There’s often a little touch on a project where a transparent fabric could finish it off to perfection; Little ‘glass’ panes in windows, a clear tab to hold an ID tag, a bag you can glance the contents of, an apron that doesn’t hide your outfit… there are so many uses big and small.
So here you have it, a comprehensive guide to sewing with PVC vinyl.
So you see a new fabric collection and you’re like…
I LOVE IT
…but how much of it do I need? Can I afford them all? I can’t possibly choose!
Oh yeah, we totally get you.
This is why we offer fat quarter bundles so you can love it, make it & keep it!
Watch our video then check out the written guide below for the full fat-quarter lowdown!
What is a fat quarter?
You might have seen FQ on a tutorial and you’re like… what?!
FQ stands for fat quarter, which is a piece of pre-cut fabric that is made by cutting half a metre of the full fabric width from the bolt and then cut in half vertically, hence ‘quarters’. Most quilting fabrics are 44”/110cm wide, which makes fat quarters around 50cm x 55cm.
Are all fat quarters the same?
Due to the term ‘fat quarter’ being all about the width, you may find some are different. This especially applies to American fat quarters, as they cut by the yard, which means you’ll find American fat quarters are a little shorter at around 56cm x 46cm.
What size is a fat quarter?
The term ‘fat’ quarter refers to how it’s cut. Technically it is a quarter of a metre, however if you asked for a quarter of a metre at a fabric shop, they would probably cut as a strip (known as a long quarter) like this:
A fat quarter cut is a square shape which means you’re getting more scope to make wider things out of it, even though it’s technically the same surface area.
You may find that some fabrics have a wider width, such asour PULandBamboo Velour. We sell this by the fat quarter, however the width can be up to 150cm, so you would get a very generous amount of fabric!
What projects can I make with fat quarters?
A fat quarter is definitely small but mighty in the sewing world. There are tons of projects you can make! Not only are they great for quilters and those applique fans out there you could also make cushions, tote bags, pencil cases, tablet covers, baskets, bibs and so much more.
We have lots oftutorials on our blogwhich you could make with fat quarters including:
Boring Legal Bit:If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewedhere
Where can I buy fat quarters?
Right here at Plush Addict! We sellquilting collections in fat quarter bundlesand you can buy any of our fabrics as a fat quarter, as they are cut bespoke for you when you order. We even have acolour matching service, just pop in the order notes which fabrics you’d like us to colour match and we’ll check for you.
Did you learn a lot from this blog? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!
As well as single layer PUL we also stock sandwich PUL which works in the same way but instead of being composed of 2 layers of fabric there are 3 layers. The layer of laminate is sandwiched in between 2 layers knit fabric. This is especially helpful if you don’t want to have the shiny laminate side against the skin as it’s hidden away between the knit layers. It’s also stronger so if you are applying a kind of fastener such as KAM snaps, extra reinforcement isn’t required around the fastenings.
Uses: Cloth nappies and wraps, anoraks, waterproof trousers,wet bags,swim bags, changing mats, changing bags,mattress protectors, pillow protectors,baby bibs, picnic blankets, incontinence products, anywhere you need a waterproof, breathable layer.
Is there a right or wrong side?
We ALWAYS get asked this.
Is there a right side to ensure “waterproof-ness”?
There isn’t really, it’s a personal preference.
The fabric will be waterproof no matter which side you choose, so go with the look that pleases you most!
That said, for aesthetic & comfort reasons I usually use the knit side as the “right” side most often.
It’s more comfy if your project will be close to the skin.
Tips for sewing with PUL fabric
✂️ Needle: Use a stretch needle
✂️ Stitch Length: Use 3mm stitch length
✂️ Machine Foot: A walking foot is helpful. If your machine foot is sticking then you can apply a bit of Scotch Magic Tape to the base of your normal machine foot
✂️ Thread Type: Polyester thread is recommended to match the fabric composition
✂️ Sealing sewing holes: When you sew your needle will leave tiny holes behind in the laminate layer which MAY affect the waterproof effectiveness of your garment.
These holes are easily resealed … either:
✂️ Pop your garment in the tumble dryer on low for 20 minutes
✂️ Or if you’re using our White PUL it’s weldable so just iron it (using a pressing cloth!) and the holes will seal!
❤️ A special note regarding our own brand of white PUL … we get this manufactured ourselves here in the UK & it has some very special properties:
☔ Its waterproof YET breathable
☔ Its medical grade
☔ Its weldable giving you a completely sealed seam (Look! No leaks!)
☔ Its fungistatic which – apart from being a brilliant word – means it inhibits the growth of fungi & bacteria ?
☔ Its double laminated – whaaaat’s that?! It means it lasts longer & is less likely to delaminate over time as it’s washed loads
☔ Its fire retardant
Uses For PUL Fabric
Love the sound of PUL? So where can you use it?! Well… anywhere you need a waterproof layer really…. here’s some handy projects on our blog!
There’s never been a more important time to reduce, recycle and reuse and using recycled products is a great way to support that ethos. In this guide, we are going to highlight some sewing supplies made from recycled & sustainable materials.
Did you know we sell threads, ribbons, interfacings & fabrics that are made from recycled bottles? Or bio-degradable wadding?! Did you know five plastic fizzy drink bottles can supply enough raw materials to make a new T-shirt? Read on for all the info on how you can up the eco-credentials of your stash and choose sewing supplies made from recycled & sustainable materials
Pin & read later:
Ribbons made from recycled materials
We are delighted to see that Berisfords are not only now making some of their most popular ranges from recycled plastic bottles, but also the ribbon reels too!
Boring Legal Bit:If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewedhere
Recycled polyester is just as good as virgin polyester but takes 59% less energy to make, plus it keeps plastic out of the oceans or landfill. Using recycled polyester also contributes to the reduction of crude oil and natural gas from the earth.
Do you useVlieseline products? Then you’re already doing your bit for the planet! Did you know many Vlieselineinterlinings are made from recycled plastic bottles?
The bottles are checked with all caps, labels and rubber removed. Then the bottles are washed and crushed into granules before being melted and made into fibres, which is made into the polyesterinterliningandwaddingwe all love.
Interfacing and interlinings made from recycled plastic bottles
Vlieseline already offer products made of 100% recycled polyester and/or mixtures thereof. By using already existing materials Vlieseline are reducing the consumption of new raw materials – in particular those that come from non-renewable sources.
Products which are made with recycled plastic bottles are
The ECO 150 wadding biodegrades when in the ground after 57 days. But there’s no need to panic! It doesn’t start to biodegrade unless it is in the ground as it’s the soil enzymes which trigger the degrading process.
Have a read of The Sewing Directory’s review of this waddinghere. Fiona did actually bury it in the ground, and it really does return to the earth
Gutermann Threadshave a fantastic collection ofpolyester threadsthat are made from recycled plastic bottles and there are over 160 colours to choose from so you’re bound to find a colour perfectly suited to your project.
They are the same price as regular Sew All threads too – it’s a no-brainer easy switch 🙂
These threads are known as ‘sew-all threads’ and are great for both machine and hand sewing, closing and backstitch seams, fine ornamental stitches and decorative seams.
The threads can be used for light and heavy to medium-weight fabrics and even clothing fabrics and knitwear. They are made in Germany with their Micro Core Technology, so the same premium quality you’d expect fromGutermann, but super eco-friendly! You can shop for these onour website.
Looking for some premium quality haberdashery? Hemline have introduced a premium rangle of haberdashery calledHemline Goldperfect for any eco-consious Seam Star who doesn’t want to compromise on style!♻️
Hemline are known for their sleek, modern tools, inspired by the rich heritage of the sewing industry. We are now stocking theirHemline Goldrange, which has been manufactured eliminating waste plastic packaging!
You can take a closer look at the range in this video:
There’s also some gorgeous storage such as premium quality needles & safety pins in glass jars with beautiful brushed gold lids, which can be used for years to come and potentially become an heirloom in the family.
Have you worked withBatik fabricsbefore? It’s such a beautiful interesting fabric with amazing history, so we thought we would share with you a handy Batik fabric guide all about these incredible fabrics.
Boring Legal Bit:If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewedhere
Recently we have seen a rise in the popularity ofBatik fabrics, but they have actually been around for over 2000 years! Batiks have such an interesting history, believed to have originated in Asia and India used for making batik clothing.
What is Batik Fabric?
Batik is an indonesian technique where areas of the design are blocked out by applying hot wax. Then, a dye is applied on top and the parts covered in wax resist the dye and remain the original colour leaving the pattern drawn in wax. This process can be repeated to create layers of beautiful elaborate design. After the final layer, the wax is removed in hot water and the fabric is ready with the batik pattern resisted.
ContemporaryBatiktextiles designers use a wide range of techniques to create different textures including etching, spraying, marbling and cracking. They also use wooden stamps, brushes, stencils and different kinds of wax such as soya wax to get different effects.
Due to the nature of the process, you will findBatik fabricslook very similar and there is no distinct ‘wrong side’ of the fabric, it completely depends on the look you’re going for. This is because the wax sinks into the fabric so it becomes almost double sided.
Some batiks have a bold print but others may have a more subtle look which work great as blender fabrics. As you can imagine, throughout the years they have been very popular in dressmaking.
Batik is great as quilting fabric but also a great choice for applique as they tend to fray less. They have a tight weave and dense thread count, so may feel a bit stiffer than other fabrics.
Batik Tips
It’s recommended that you pre washBatik fabrics, to help prevent the dye from running. Hand washing is best, do check before putting it into the washing machine.
When washed, air drying is recommended, but out of direct sunlight. Don’t wring out the excess water after soaking and if you must use a tumble dryer, do so on a low heat setting.
Use a sharp needle when sewing, as you will find they have a tighter weave than other fabrics.
Where can I buy Batik Fabric?
We sell lots of different colours and designs over onour website Plush Addict,a fabric superstore based in the UK!
So, what will you be making with yourbold Batiks? Will you be making unique bags, gorgeous quilts or a beautiful batik dress to wear? Leave us a comment and let us know!
We’re kicking off Eco-Week sharing share some information aboutBamboo Fabric., considered to be one of the most eco-friendly fibres available. Have a read of our guide to learn why, and about the different types of bamboo fabric that are available.
Bamboo fabricis a natural textile, made from plants called Bamboo, which are known as the ‘plant of a thousand uses’ as they have been used for centuries as building material, but Beijing University managed to develop the super sustainable plant as bamboo fibre.
Bamboo plants grow quickly like grass, so often need a trim and will carry on growing.
Boring Legal Bit:If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewedhere
Bamboo fabricis very soft, smooth and lightweight, yet strong. Also, it does not go under much chemical processing to make the fabric, which makes it easy to wear if you have found your skin is sometimes irritated by fabrics.
The fibres have a criss-cross texture which makes it a fantastic moisture absorber but also good for breathability.
Not only is bamboo fabric more environmentally friendly, but it is also super absorbent. This means it’s great for re-usable items like cloth nappies, reusable wipes, yoga towels, women’s cloth pads, mattress covers, pet beds and so much more!
The textile industry have found in comparison to cotton, it is 3 times more absorbent and keeps you cool and dry in sweaty situations! It can also adapt to weather conditions, keeping you cooler than cotton would in the heat but warm and cosy in the winter.
Lab tests on the material have proved that it is naturally anti-bacterial and anti-fungal thanks to the natural substance called‘Bamboo kun’which protects the plant from pests. Even after 50 washes, the bamboo fibres continue to have antibacterial properties!
Read our 13 Tips for Sewing with Bamboo Towelling Fabrichere
One of our best selling bamboo options is theBamboo towelling. Ideal for cloth wipes, bibs and towels, it is super soft and thepremium versionis lush with a gorgeous sheen for that luxury feel.
There is no stretch to struggle with while sewing but can be quite lofty as it has terry loop on both sides.
Another bamboo option we have is a knit fabric with a super softvelour finish. It makes GORGEOUS snuggle blankets & has a great drape for loungewear. It is also a popular choice for nappy making as it’s very soft to touch and is thinner than bamboo towelling.
When sewing, be careful as it has a little stretch so make sure to use lots of pins, a walking foot and a ball point needle. In addition, it makes a fantastic blank canvas for your own colour palette, as it takes dye well.
Bamboo French Terryis a super high quality premium fabric that comes in a variety of colours. It has a smooth knit side and dimpled weave effect on the reverse. It’s great for lounge wear as well as sports wear as it’s super absorbent. It’s can be used for any item where absorbency is needed.
How about some super soft leggings?Bamboo jerseyis ideal for sportswear as it’s soft, breathable, strong and lightweight. Also perfect for t-shirts & dresses. Don’t forget those anti-bacterial properties too, ideal for those sweaty gym sessions!
You can use bamboo jersey any where you might use a regular jersey fabric.
CHECK THE WEIGHT
When browsing for absorbent fabrics, take a note of the fabric weight (normally written as gsm which stands for grams per square metre). The higher GSM the fabric is, the more it will absorb.
What can I make with bamboo fabrics?
Looking for project ideas for bamboo fabrics? Here’s some suggestions
We hope you loved learning all about Bamboo Fabrics! Don’t forget tosign up to the newsletterto make sure you never miss a fabric guide or tutorial again!
For more content on our Eco Week, you can check out Plush Addict on all the socials below.
