Introduction: Basics on Sewing Faux Fur
Faux fur is an animal-friendly alternative to real fur and is often used to make clothing, accessories, and other decorations. Sewing faux fur with a sewing machine is easy and enjoyable. But, before you get started, there are a few things you need to know. Here are the basics that will help you sew with success.
Gathering Your Materials
Before you start sewing faux fur, you will need to get your hands on some supplies. The most important things to consider are your thread, fabric, patterns, needles and seam ripper. Get the same color thread as your faux fur fabric. If you’re looking to save some money on fabric, look for natural fibers like cotton or linen. You may also want to buy extra fabric in your chosen color and pattern for added insulation. Make sure your needles are large enough for the faux fur fabric you’re using. It’s important to use the right needles, as using too small of a needle can cause your faux fur to become tangled while in the machine. Finally, make sure you have a sharp seam ripper on hand to fix any mistakes.
Choosing Your Sewing Machine
Choosing the right sewing machine is key to successful sewing of faux fur. Make sure you have a machine that is powerful enough to handle the thickness and weight of faux fur fabric. It’s also important to make sure you have the correct foot for sewing faux fur. Since regular presser feet can cause the fur to gather or bunch, you’ll want to use a Teflon presser foot or walking foot. You can shop for these specialty feet in most fabric and craft stores. The type of bobbin used is also important. The bobbin should match the stitch density of the faux fur fabric, as different bobbins will yield different results. Lastly, make sure the thread you are using is tall enough so it won’t snap in the machine.
Careful Cutting
The cutting part of sewing faux fur is arguably the most important step. It is essential to take special care when cutting fur. To start, you want to make sure you are using a sharp fabric scissors. Dull or inferior scissors can cause fraying and shredding. When cutting fur, you want to make sure you are cutting the fur in the same direction. This will help you achieve accuracy and prevent fraying. You may also want to consider using pattern weights instead of pins when cutting, as pins can potentially leave holes in the fur. Lastly, make sure you trace patterns with an air or water-soluble marker so it’s easy to remove at the end.
Getting It Ready For The Machine
Once you have cut the fabric, you will want to make sure it is ready to be sewn by the machine. To start, use the wrong side of the faux fur and line it with the wrong side of your pattern. Pin the two pieces together with fabric pins. Make sure to pin at a 90-degree angle to prevent bunching. Then, begin to baste the fabric together. This will help keep the fabric pieces in place. After basting, you’re ready to sew!
Sewing
Sewing your faux fur is relatively easy. You will want to start by setting your machine to a low speed. This will help the fabric move through the feed dogs of the machine with ease. If the fabric starts to bunch up or pull, you may need to reduce the tension. You may also want to reduce the stitch length—a longer stitch length can be too aggressive for faux fur. When you’re finished, cut the basting threads and turn the fabric right side out.
Caring For Your Fabric
When you have finished sewing, it is important to take the right steps to care for your faux fur fabric. To start, you will want to brush the fur using a soft bristle brush. This will help keep the fabric looking fresh and help prevent shedding. You may also want to use a fabric rake to help fluff up the fur, as this will add more dimension and life to your fabric.
Finishing Touches
When you’re finished sewing and brushing your faux fur, you’re ready to put the final touches on your project. If you’re making clothing, you may want to consider adding trims for an extra special look. You can find a variety of trims in most fabric stores. Final touches such as buttons and beads can also be added for a bit of flair.
Adding Interfacing
Adding interfacing to your faux fur fabric is an important step in the sewing process. Interfacing will help your fabric hold its shape while also adding structure. When adding interfacing, it is important to use the right type. A heavy-weight interfacing works best for faux fur as it offers more stability. To add the interfacing, you will want to cut it in the same shape as the piece of fur you’re using. Then, iron the interfacing to the wrong side of your faux fur fabric. Make sure you use the right setting, as using a high heat setting can leave your fabric looking charred.
Pin the interfacing in place, then sew the two pieces together in a loop stitch. If you don’t have a loop stitch, you can use a straight stitch. This will help to sew your fabric together and also create a neat finish.
Backing Your Project
Adding a backing to your faux fur fabric is an essential step in the sewing process. A backing helps to keep the fur from puckering and adds stability to your project. When choosing a backing for faux fur it is important to use a material that is thin and lightweight. This will prevent the fur from bunching up when it is sewn. Fabrics such as muslin, organza, lightweight cotton, and canvas make great backing materials.
To add the backing to your faux fur fabric, you will need to baste the two pieces together. Start by laying the fur on a flat surface, fur side up. Then, center your backing fabric on top and lightly pin the two pieces together. Once the two pieces are in place, sew the edges together in a straight stitch. Taking extra care to make sure the backing and fur are lined up. This will help to provide stability to the fur and keep it from bunching.
Pressing Your Fur
Pressing your fur is a great way to add a neat, finished look to your project. To get the best results, it is important to use the right iron setting and equipment. Start by ironing the fur on the reverse side, using steam. This will help to prevent the fur from becoming damaged. If you’re using faux fur with a thick pile, you may need to use a pressing cloth to prevent damage. You can use a pressing cloth made out of cotton, canvas or flannel.
After ironing the fur, you can use a steamer to help the fur achieve a fluffy, soft look. Start by steaming a small area at a time and move the steamer back and forth in a gentle manner. This will help promote fluffiness and also help reduce excess moisture. Once you’re finished, it is important to let the fur cool before handling it.
Hand Sewing Over The Machine Seams
Hand sewing over the machine seams is a great way to add a neat, finished look to your project. Start by threading a needle with the same thread you used to sew your fabric. Then, use a running stitch to sew over the machine seams. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to ensure the stitches stay in place. This will help to keep the fur in place and add more stability to your project.
You may also want to use hand-sewing techniques to add details to your project. Techniques such as blanket stitches and whip stitches help to create interesting embellishments. These details are a great way to add a bit of personality to your project.
Spot Cleaning Your Fur
Keeping your faux fur clean is an important part of the sewing process. The best way to spot clean faux fur is to use a damp cloth. Start by slightly dampening the cloth, then rub in an up-down motion. This will help to gently remove dirt and debris. Make sure to rinse the cloth in clean water to keep the fur clean.
Another great way to keep your fur clean is by using a hand-held vacuum. This type of vacuum is great for removing any excess fur or lint. Just make sure to go over the fabric slowly and in an up-down motion. This will help to keep the fur looking neat and clean.
Adding Embellishments
Adding embellishments is the perfect way to add a unique and creative touch to your project. Embellishments such as ribbons, lace, and sequins can easily be added to faux fur. The easiest and safest way to add embellishments is to use fabric glue. Start by applying a small amount of glue to the back of your embellishment and let it sit for a few seconds before pressing it into place. This will help keep the embellishment in place and ensure it won’t come off after a few wears.
Adding buttons and beads is another great way to add a decorative touch to your project. Start by threading the needle and using a running stitch to add the embellishment. Make sure to backstitch at the end to ensure the embellishment won’t come off after a few wears.
Attaching Faux Fur to Clothing
Attaching faux fur to clothing is easy and fun. Start by cutting the fur and backing to the same shape and size as the article of clothing you’re attaching it to. Then, sew the two pieces together in a large loop stitch. This will help keep the fabric together and also create a neat finish.
Once the two pieces are sewn together, apply a thin layer of fabric glue to the edges. This will help keep the fabric from fraying. Once the glue has dried, hand sew the fur to the article of clothing. This can be done with a running stitch or a blanket stitch, depending on your preference. Just make sure to go slow and take your time.
Storing Your Fur
Proper storage is necessary for ensuring your faux fur fabric remains in good condition. The best way to store faux fur is by hanging it up in a dry and dark place.
