Choosing The Right Vinyl
Abrasion Resistance
Vinyl can generally out perform leather and woven fiber fabrics on both abrasion resistance and
durability. However, some vinyls are more abrasion resistant than others.
Anti-Microbial Characteristics
A vinyl with excellent anti-microbial characteristics is one that is easily sterilized and resists the
growth of bacterial organisms. Vinyl is very important to healthcare providers.
Backing
What type of backing is best suited for your vinyl project? For instance, foam backed vinyl is often used
for marine headliners.
Care
Most vinyl can be easily cleaned with soap and water. Common houseold spray
cleaners can be used on most vinyls. We recommend testing your cleaner on a scrap or an inconspicuous area.
Cold Crack
Is your application likely to be subject to extreme cold? Then you need to pay attention to cold crack
resistance. The cold crack rating is the temperature at which the vinyl may become brittle and crack.
Fading
Most vinyls are made with UV stabilized pigments. This is of particular importance if your application
involves exposure to sunlight.
Ease of Use
Some vinyls are stiffer, some softer. Softer vinyls are usually easier to sew and conform better to
projects with many curves or small details.
Flammability
Think of candles, cigarettes and other items that might be exposed to your project. Commercial vinyls are
manufactured to meet or exceed federal, state and local fire codes.
Mildew
Is your vinyl project exposed to the elements? Check for mildew resistance.
Stain Resistance
Almost all vinyls are spot and stain resistant. Vinyl will not absorb fluids.
Surface Texture
What kind of texture are you looking for in your vinyl project? There are many to choose from.
Yardage Estimators
Tips For Sewing With Vinyl
from More Fabric Savvy
More Fabric Savvy
by Sandra Betzina
Cut out a 1-in. square for feed dogs out of Teflon press sheet. Tape Teflon sheet to
sewing table surface, with hole cutout over feed dogs. Tape to bed of machine. Your vinyl fabric will now
slide easily without sticking to the bed of the machine. Needle holes in vinyl are permanent. Hold vinyl
layers together with paper clips.
- Includes 19 new fabrics not included in the original Fabric Savvy for a total of 100
fabrics.
- Updated Glossary and Sources to provide up to the minute fabric information.
- Includes a handy stain-removal chart for tackling over 50 types of stains.
- Two new features include a lining chart, and a "burn test" chart to determine a fabric's
content.