Sewing Tips for Vinyl Covers

Vinyl covers are protective and decorative.

Vinyl comes in a variety of patterns and solid colors, making it an ideal medium for a wide range of sewing projects. Use vinyl to sew baby bibs, tablecloths, aprons, book covers, pencil cases, tote bags and diaper bags. Create plain covers or use scraps of vinyl to add pictures or shapes to the front of the cover.

Preparation

Vinyl is subject to creases, wrinkles and folds from shipping and storage. Before you begin, lay the vinyl out on a flat surface to allow the material to return to its regular state. A warm space is best, and sunlight is even better as it gently warms the vinyl. Rotary cutters are handy tools for cutting vinyl. Choose a straight blade or a pinking blade for variety when cutting edges. Otherwise, use regular scissors, scalloped or pinking sheers.

Patterns and Vinyl Choices

Choose a pattern that will work well with vinyl. Avoid anything with tucks, pleats and ruffles to ensure your project will turn out as expected. Vary the pattern by changing the vinyl or adding embellishments or different finishes. Vinyl comes in a range of thicknesses. For covers, choose a medium type of vinyl. Too thin, and the vinyl might pucker when sewing if it catches or crumples under the presser foot. If it is too thick, the vinyl might be too stiff to work with if you need to fold it around the object you are covering.

Sewing

Vinyl is unforgiving when it comes to holes. Measure twice and sew once. If you are pinning the vinyl be sure to place pins within the seam allowance or in a place where finishing will disguise the holes. Sewing on the opposite side (the fabric or mesh side) can be smooth. If you find the vinyl is catching on the foot of your sewing machine, consider switching to a different foot, such as a Teflon or roller presser foot. Another thing you can do is place tissue paper between the vinyl and the foot.

Finishing and Care

The vinyl will not fray, which means you can finish your edges without seams. Finish edges with decorative scissors, bias tape or ribbon. You can also serge or hem the edges if necessary for the project you have chosen. Finished covers can be embellished with gems, jewels, buttons and other adornments. Vinyl cannot be machine washed and dried, but it is easy to care for. Simply wipe the vinyl with a damp cloth and allow it to dry thoroughly before storing.

References

• Sew Mama Sew: Oilcloth Tips
• Patchwork Posse: Vinyl Notebook Covers
• Sewing and Craft Alliance: Slick Tricks-Laminated Fabrics and Vinyls