How to sew vinyl

August 20, 2022

I have been sewing vinyl since 2010 successfully — and I'm here to help you do the same. With the right tools and techniques, it's so much fun!

Last updated: May 1, 2026

Free Resources

Download your free Sewing Vinyl PDF Guide to reference whenever you need it.

You can also watch the free Vinyl Live Chat on YouTube for a full walkthrough.

All Sew HungryHippie vinyl and cork is sewable on home sewing machines. I test them all before putting them in my shop.

Tip #1: Use a Teflon Sewing Foot

A Teflon sewing foot is essential for the best vinyl sewing experience. Tape under a normal foot works in a pinch for a single project, but it's not a long-term solution. Tissue paper on top of the vinyl can also help in the moment — but if you plan to sew vinyl regularly, invest in a proper Teflon foot.

Teflon sewing foot for sewing vinyl fabric – essential tool for vinyl bag making

Watch this 2-minute Teflon foot demo video on Facebook to see it in action.

If the vinyl is sticking to the bed of your machine, try a Teflon pressing sheet taped to that area.

Tip #2: Use a Hair Dryer Before Turning Right Side Out

Warm the vinyl with a hair dryer before turning it right side out — this makes it more flexible and much easier to work with.

Best Vinyl for Beginners

The easiest vinyl to start with is our Soft Vinyl collection. It feels and behaves like fabric, making it ideal for first-time vinyl sewers.

SewHungryHippie Soft Deep Space vinyl fabric – best beginner vinyl for sewing bags

If you want a faux leather look, try our Moonglow Vinyl collection. It's still very malleable and easy to sew, with a beautiful leather-like finish.

Moonglow Purple Rain Orchid faux leather vinyl by SewHungryHippie – easy to sew

Tip #3: Use the Right Tools

Wonder clips are the go-to for vinyl — not pins. Pin holes in vinyl are permanent, so clips are a must.

Use quality thread that won't break. I prefer Güttermann all-purpose thread — avoid 100% cotton thread, as it breaks easily with vinyl.

You may also need a Chrome Microtex needle. These are stronger and make a noticeable difference, especially for bag-making.

Close up of the eye and point of a single Schmetz Chrome Microtex needle on a white background

Tip #4: Use a Longer Stitch Length

I normally sew at 2.5–3 mm, so when working with vinyl I increase to 3.0–3.5 mm. You can go around bag corners twice for extra strength — just don't sew too close to the previous line, or you risk perforating the seam. Experiment to find what works best for your machine and vinyl.

Tip #5: Have Patience

Walk away if you're frustrated — you can absolutely do this! New skills feel hard at first, but that's normal. Join our SewHungryHippie Facebook community for support, inspiration, and friendship.

Also: invest in a quality sewing machine, preferably a mechanical one. This doesn't mean expensive — one of my favorites is a refurbished Bernina 1008 that's over 30 years old. Vintage Kenmore machines from the 70s are fantastic too. Quality tools make all the difference.