Can You Sew Sunbrella Fabric with a Regular Sewing Machine?
When it comes to outdoor furniture fabrics, Sunbrella is the leading brand. It is the most durable fabric and one of the best choices for outdoor use, providing UV protection and resistance to dirt, mildew, abrasion and fading.
The one downside with Sunbrella fabric is that it requires special care when washing, drying and ironing. However, you must also pay attention to what type of sewing machine you use to sew Sunbrella. Many people wonder if they can use a regular sewing machine with this fabric or if they need a special one.
According to experts, the strength and weight of Sunbrella make it so it can be sewn with a regular sewing machine. However, there are a few tips and tricks to consider when sewing this fabric with a regular sewing machine.
The first is to make sure the machine is in good condition and that the needle size is suitable for the fabric. Sunbrella is heavier than other fabrics, so a heavier needle will be needed. A too-heavy needle can produce skipped stitches, excessive needle heat, or even cause broken needles. The same goes for thread; you should use a thread that is suitable for heavier fabrics. Sunbrella is also a slippery fabric, so you should consider using a Teflon pressing sheet or inserting tissue paper between the layers of fabric to prevent the layers from shifting.
Another important tip is to lower the sewing machine tension for both the upper and lower threads. This will reduce the chances of skipped stitches, especially when working with heavier fabrics. You should also avoid stretching the fabric as this can cause puckering and wrinkling.
Finally, it is important to use a longer stitch length (around 3.5mm) when working with heavier fabrics. Longer stitches result in stronger seams and reduce the chances of the fabric fraying.
Preparation for Sewing
When sewing a Sunbrella project, it is important to give the fabric the necessary preparation to avoid puckering, fraying and stretching. The first step is to pre-wash the fabric with mild soap, as this helps remove any dirt or particles and prevents any shrinkage during the sewing process.
You should also iron the fabric before sewing, ensuring that the fabric is flat. If the fabric is not prewashed, you should still press it using an appropriate setting on the iron. Make sure to use a pressing cloth to prevent any scorching on the fabric.
You can also use fusible webbing to temporarily bond the fabric layers before sewing. Additionally, it is often recommended to baste the layers together with a straight stitch to hold them in place before finishing the seam.
Lastly, you should use a rotary cutter and a cutting mat to provide precise cutting. This will help make sure the edges of the fabric are even and will make it easier to sew the fabric.
Reinforcing Seams
In addition to the tips discussed earlier, it is important to also take measures to reinforce the seams when sewing Sunbrella fabric. Since Sunbrella is a durable fabric, it is important to add extra reinforcement to ensure the fabric is secure.
One easy way to reinforce seams is to use grommets or rivets along the seams. This will help keep the seams strong and prevent them from fraying or pulling apart. Additionally, stitching a line of topstitching on both sides of the seam will help secure the fabric layers.
You can also add double-stitched French seams. These are two rows of stitching along the same seam line and will help keep the fabric from pulling apart. Finally, adding patches or embroidery to the fabric will make it even stronger and more durable.
Finishing the Seams
Once the seam is secure, it is time to finish up the project with the right type of seam finish. This will determine not only the longevity of the seam but also the overall look of the garment.
A few common seam finishes for Sunbrella fabric include French seams, zigzag stitches and hand sewn stitches. French seams create an invisible finish and are great for lightweight fabrics. Zigzag stitches are perfect for thicker fabrics and will help keep the edge from fraying. Hand sewn stitches are another great option for a decorative finish but can take longer to complete.
Additionally, it is important to clean up any excess threads before completing a project. This will provide a neat and clean look to the garment and will help keep the Sunbrella fabric looking new for longer.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Since Sunbrella is an outdoor fabric and constantly exposed to the elements, it will require proper maintenance and a few troubleshooting tips in order to keep the fabric looking great.
To troubleshoot, it is important to inspect both the fabric and the sewing machine. Sunbrella fabric is prone to mildew and mold if it is stored improperly, so it is important to check for any signs of this. Additionally, inspect the sewing machine’s tension, needle and thread to ensure they are suitable for the fabric.
Once the project is finished, it is also important to provide appropriate maintenance. Sunbrella fabric should be washed with mild soap and warm water and air dried. Make sure to avoid using bleach, as this can damage the fabric. Additionally, iron the fabric on a low setting with a pressing cloth.
Careful Considerations Before Sewing Sunbrella Fabric
When sewing with Sunbrella fabric, it is important to take a few precautions before you begin. Make sure you have the right type of needle, thread and sewing machine tension, as this will make sewing process smoother. Additionally, iron the fabric and use fusible webbing or tissue paper between the layers of fabric to prevent the layers from shifting.
When it comes to seam finishing, there a few options you can choose from depending on the project. French seams, zigzag stitches and hand sewn stitches are all great options for a neat and finished look. Finally, make sure to clean up any excess threads and provide proper maintenance for the Sunbrella fabric.
What are the Advantages of Sewing Sunbrella?
Sewing with Sunbrella fabric comes with many advantages. Firstly, Sunbrella is the most durable fabric for outdoor furniture, providing UV protection and resistance to dirt, mildew, abrasion and fading. The fabric is also resistant to stretching and shrinking, making it easier to work with. Additionally, Sunbrella fabric comes in a variety of colors, styles and patterns, making it perfect for any outdoor project.
In addition, using a regular sewing machine with Sunbrella fabric is fairly simple, as long as the right precautions are taken. Make sure to use the right needle size, thread and tension and take measures to reinforce the seams. This will ensure that the fabric is secure and will last for a long time.
Finally, sewing with Sunbrella fabric can be a creative and fun experience. The fabric is easy to work with and can be used to create beautiful outdoor projects that will look great and last for many years.
