Let me help you learn to sew vinyl! I love it and have over 11 years experience sewing this material.
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I've been sewing vinyl bags and accessories for over 12 years.
I've had some real winners and some real losers at the end of it all, so I'd like to take a minute and let you in on what I've learned.
These are tips I use daily.
#1 You MUST use a Teflon sewing foot for the best sewing experience.
Tape underneath a normal foot is ok if you're making one thing, but not if you're planning on making two or more. No -- for real. Sometimes placing tissue paper ON TOP of the vinyl as you sew works also, but this is a quick fix for "in -the-moment". Please get a Teflon foot if you're going to make a lot with vinyl.
.....and please for the love of all that is natural in this world, buy a quality foot meant for your machine NOT an impostor.
(I did it thinking I was being rebellious --- it did not go well. Much the same as my teen years.)
UPDATE: if the vinyl is sticking to the bed of your machine, try a Teflon baking sheet on taped to this area. They are cheap and work. https://amzn.to/3g4bpjs
There is also a new product called a "Supreme Slider" that I can order in for you, and it's an absolute dream to make this area smooth, it is meant for Quilters but works for vinyl. Order one here.
#2: USE A HAIR DRYER or warm the vinyl in some manner before trying to turn it right side out.
This also pertains to your vinyl if it has wrinkles upon shipment--just heat it up a few seconds and the wrinkles come right out! No need to freak.
If it's your first time using vinyl, use it as a feature. For example the pockets on front and back of my Essentials Tote:
It's not magic keeping those sunglasses in- it's clear vinyl!
The pattern "Coffee House bag" features a vinyl flap --no turning out. It would be PERFECT for iridescent or colorful vinyl.
I have a ton of easy vinyl tutorials and videos if you browse "TUTORIALS" on this website - the tab is at the top menu. My YouTube channel is here.
#3 Use tools that HELP YOU.
Wonder clips are meant for vinyl -- not pins. Those holes are forever Yo!
Use quality thread that doesn't break -I prefer Gutermann all purpose thread (not 100% cotton it will break easily).
You may need to use a CHROME microtex needle. They make a huge difference just because they are stronger. I usually just use what's in my machine because I'm lazy, but if I'm making a bag - by the end of it, I will change to a Universal Chrome size 90 or 80 - depending on thickness.
#4 Use a longer stitch length. I tend to sew at 2.5 - 3 mm so when I sew VINYL I use a 3.0 to 3.5mm stitch.
Sometimes I will go around the corners of a bag twice, not too close though, don't want to perf the seams! Play around and see what works for you.
Sometimes I will go around the corners of a bag twice, not too close though, don't want to perf the seams! Play around and see what works for you.
#5 HAVE PATIENCE.
#6 SOMETIMES people complain the throat of their machine sticks to the vinyl. Simply tape a teflon baking sheet to the throat of your machine if this is happening. Tissue paper can work in a bind too. This has never been an issue for me however.
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--If all of the above fails, and you've done your meditation and said your positive vibes mantras and it's still going to sh*t, ---grab your credit card and run to the nearest sewing machine dealer to test out quality heavy metal (not plastic machines). I use an old refurbished Bernina 1008 and I swear it's amazing and sews anything.
You will never look back once you invest in quality tools, promise.
In the private Makers Facebook Group we often discuss various tips and/or patterns that work well for vinyl. Join us!
I try to post videos weekly on my YouTube channel here. There are over 125 videos so far for you to browse. I also host a weekly LIVE SEW every Friday at 11 CST on my Facebook page here.
We just had a great vinyl chat on a LIVE session here on 6/25/21.
Santorini tote in peach croc vinyl.
8 comments
Great information! Thank you 🌹
great video and definately makes working with vinyl easier! Thank you.
Love your videos!
Great tips
These are wonderful tips. Especially the use of a hair dryer on the vinyl before turning. Not sure why I did not think of this as I have used the hair dryer when “molding” my NCW wallets.