May, 2006

Sewing With PVC

Q:

I've seen some things you've done with PVC/vinyl. How difficult is it to sew PVC? I'm attending DragonCon in September and I'm thinking of trying my hand at making a goth-ish black PVC waist clincher, but my sewing has been limited to boring cotton/poly blend types of things.

Any suggestions or tips?

Thanks,
Jessa

A:

PVC fabric is just as easy to sew as any cotton blend fabric as long as you us the right techniques. Because of PVC's slick polyurethane surface it tends to stick to the sewing machine's metal throat plates and presser feet.

The best way you to sew PVC is with the purchase a teflon presser foot which allows the fabric to glide smoothly over your machine. If you can not buy a teflon foot there are other ways of going about it with house hold products.

Place wax paper between the fabric and and the presser foot and continue sewing, afterwards tear away the wax paper very gently from the stitching.

Another idea is using chap stick, rub the chap stick along the polyurethane surface of the fabric where you will be sewing. Both of these techniques will allow your sewing to go smoothly.

Also remember never to iron to vinyl! High heats melt the polyurethane side of the fabric. If you need to rid creases in your garment its best to put it on hanger in your bathroom, run a hot shower, close the door, and let the steam do the work.

Lastly, try to find thread that has a polyester blend with cotton. 100% cotton thread does not stretch.

I hope this helps with your sewing!



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