How to Sew Neoprene Fabric
Neoprene fabric is a thick foam-like fabric made of a synthetic rubber that is flexible and durable for items such as wetsuits. Neoprene resists the damaging effects of sun and weather and performs well over a range in temperatures; in addition, it's difficult to burn and almost impervious to damage caused by too much flexing and twisting. Sew neoprene fabric at home with a simple sewing machine if the neoprene fabric is under 4 millimeters thick. If it is thicker than 4 millimeters, only an industrial-strength sewing machine can sew it. Use heavy-duty thread such as nylon when sewing neoprene.
Things You'll Need
- Sewing machine
- Nylon thread
- Needle, universal size 16 or 18
- Heat-sealable tape
- Elastic
Instructions
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1
Thread your sewing machine with the nylon thread and replace the needle with a new heavy-duty needle size 16 or 18.
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2
Lay the neoprene fabric right-sides facing, so the inside of the fabric is facing outward and the outside of the fabric facing inward.
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Place the neoprene under your sewing machine’s presser foot and set your sewing machine for a straight stitch with a medium- to long-stitch length and low tension.
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Sew the neoprene fabric slowly with the sewing machine, leaving a ¼-inch seam allowance. Repeat this process with all the pieces of neoprene fabric.
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5
For a waterproof seam, apply a heat-sealable tape across the seam. To prevent chafing, add a strip of elastic to the rough edge of the neoprene.
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Tips & Warnings
You can glue together neoprene fabric first with fabric glue and then sew for extra strength.
If you suffer from sensitive skin, you may experience an allergic reaction or irritation as a result of working with neoprene fabric.
References
- Photo Credit two scuba divers image by Janet Wall from Fotolia.com
