How to Sew Canvas
Canvas can be used to sew tote bags, floorcloths, tents and more. Keep these suggestions in mind whenever you work with canvas.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Canvases
- Garden Hoses
- Heavy-duty Threads
- Industrial Sewing Machine
- Size 16 Or 18 Sewing Needles
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1
Prewash canvas before you sew. This is especially important if you plan to sew something that will be exposed to the elements (like a tent or shade). If possible, prewash canvas at least two or three times at the hottest setting.
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2
Use a large sewing needle (size 16 or 18) and a heavy-duty thread. The larger needle is made to penetrate thick layers of fabric.
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3
Set your machine at a stitch length of 8 to 12 stitches per inch. A shorter stitch length will cause your fabric to bunch or pucker and could jam your machine.
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4
Feed the canvas through your machine at a slow, steady pace. Pushing or pulling the fabric could damage your machine's timing mechanism or cause your needle to break.
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5
Sew many layers of canvas on an industrial sewing machine if possible. These machines are available for rent and are made especially for sewing thick layers of canvas and denim.
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6
Use a flat-felled seam on most canvas projects. This seam is very durable and useful for heavy fabrics. See "How to Sew Basic Seams" for instructions on making a flat-felled seam.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Wash canvas pieces too large for the washing machine outdoors. Saturate with a water hose and dry in the sun. Repeat this two or three times.
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Comments
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MimiSharon
Dec 09, 2006
I found that tacky glue works well on this to close over and seal the edges. I would not use a heat and bond agent if you want to sew designs. They tend to gum up the needles. Thanks for this one! Sharon -
MimiSharon
Dec 09, 2006
I found that tacky glue works well on this to close over and seal the edges. I would not use a heat and bond agent if you want to sew designs. They tend to gum up the needles. Thanks for this one! Sharon
