Basic Characteristics of Canvas
Canvas is a tightly woven cloth made from hemp, linen or cotton. Its distinct weave, durability, and texture make it well suited for a wide variety of projects, from covering furniture and making tents to creating banners and works of art. While canvas is often used as a fabric for sewing, it also requires special handling and consideration when used in a sewing machine.
Why Canvas Can Be Difficult to Sew
Sewing canvas has its own particular challenges. Some machines may not be able to handle the extra weight and thickness of the canvas fabric, resulting in the needle straining or breaking. Canvas tends to be a heavier type of fabric than what is usually sewn on most machines. Unfortunately, roping and skipping stitches are common when attempting to sew through the tightly woven fibers. In addition, mishandling the canvas can cause it to stretch and lose some of its structural integrity.
The Proper Preparation for Sewing Canvas
It is necessary to prepare the fabric properly before beginning the sewing process. To ensure a successful outcome, canvas should be folded with the right sides together, then clipped together using clips or sewing pins. This will help to keep the two pieces of fabric from shifting and make it easier to sew the canvas. As an added precaution, it is a good idea to use a tear-away stabilizer on the back of the canvas before starting.
The Sewing Process for Canvas
When sewing canvas, it is important to use the correct type of needle. The needle size and type used should be appropriate for the type and weight of the canvas being sewn. A universal needle size 11 or 14 is generally good for medium to heavy weight fabrics. Sewing machines should also be equipped with a walking foot attachment. This attachment helps to ensure that the stitches are even and secure and prevents the fabric from shifting and bunching up. When using a walking foot, it is also important to use a larger stitch length such as 3 or 4.
Differential Feed to Avoid Rippling
Using a differential feed is also recommended when sewing canvas. This can be helpful in preventing the fabric from rippling or puckering when stitching. The differential feed consists of several metal discs located below the walking foot. By turning the dial to the correct setting, the feed dogs are made to move at a different rate, preventing the fabric from stretching as it moves through the machine.
Canvas Tension Settings for a Sewing Machine
The machine’s tension settings should also be adjusted and tested before beginning the sewing process. Starting on a low tension setting and then increasing it as needed may help to prevent skipped stitches or other issues. The ideal tension setting can also depend on the fabric weight and what type of stitch is being used. For example, using a zigzag stitch may require a slightly lighter tension setting than a straight stitch.
Using a Serger for Canvas Sewing
Using a serger is another option when sewing canvas. Sergers can offer a few advantages over regular sewing machines. The special blades of the serger provide a unique finish that can help to prevent the canvas from fraying and unraveling. The different stitch settings of a serger can also be better suited for sewing with heavier fabrics like canvas.
Choosing Stitch Patterns for Canvas
The type of stitch used when sewing canvas can also make a difference in the quality and durability of the fabric. The most common types of stitching used on canvas are straight stitches and zigzag stitches, though a triple stitch or a reinforced stitch may provide more strength. Additionally, it is important to use a backstitch or a lockstitch at the end of the seam to secure the thread and prevent any unraveling.
Cleaning and Finishing
After stitching is finished, it can be important to take some extra steps in order to clean and finish the fabric. The canvas can be washed in warm water, then ironed (using a low temperature setting) to help flatten out any creases or wrinkles. Waxing or coating the canvas with a protective spray may also be necessary to help increase the longevity of the fabric.
Canvas Painting and Printing
Canvas is often used for painting and printing purposes, and it can be useful to have some fundamental techniques for creating art on the fabric. Transferring and printing artwork onto canvas can be a relatively simple process, and inkjet printers can be effective for printing onto canvas. Additionally, there are various painting techniques suitable for canvas, such as brush painting, spray painting and airbrush painting.
Tools Needed for Sewing Canvas
When sewing canvas, it is important to have the proper tools and supplies on hand before starting. This includes a good quality sewing machine, the right type of thread, scissors, a seam ripper, a measuring tape, clips, pins, and a pressing cloth. A walking foot attachment and a differential feed are also essential, as are adjustable sewing feet such as a cording foot or a hemming foot.
Conclusion
Sewing canvas can be a challenging task. It is important to use the correct type of needle, thread and stitch settings in order to achieve a successful outcome. Additionally, additional tools such as a walking foot and a differential feed can be beneficial. Taking the time to properly prepare and finish the fabric can increase the lifespan of the canvas and ensure that the final result is of the highest quality.
