Let me help you learn to sew vinyl! I have over a decade of experience sewing this alternative fabric successfully. It is so fun with the right tools!
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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. Click 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 perforate 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 perforate the seams! Play around and see what works for you.
#5 HAVE PATIENCE.
Walk away if you are frustrated. LOL! You can do this I promise. Sometimes new things feel difficult only because we are so hard on ourselves. Join our Facebook group here for friendship & support.
PLEASE invest in a quality machine, preferably a mechanical one (not plastic). This doesn't mean expensive - one of my best machines is a refurbished Bernina 1008 that's over 30 years old. Vintage Kemore machines from the 70s are great too! You will never look back once you invest in quality tools, promise.
Check out my videos on my YouTube channel here. There are hundreds of videos for you to browse, from beginners up.
Santorini tote in peach croc vinyl.
HAVE FUN EXPLORING!
Peace, Love, & Fabric
-Natalie