This short article explains how to laminate cotton fabric. Laminate cotton fabric is one of the easiest things to do as long as you are using an industrial-strength laminator.
This simple and easy method will show you how to laminate cotton fabric at home like a pro!
How To Laminate Fabric
Projects don’t always turn out the way we envision, but in this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make your own vinyl fabric and use it for a variety of projects.
This flexible material is waterproof and easy to clean up which makes it perfect for everything from reusable snack bags to potholders.
In this tutorial, we’ll be creating a laminated cotton fabric that is great for use in several projects. The process to create this stunning result takes about 5 minutes and requires less than $5 of materials!
Since the finished product will require only one layer of cloth, it’s best done with thick or sturdy fabrics like denim or canvas so they don’t rip during assembly.
By using a roll of vinyl, you can create your own laminated cotton for very reasonable prices. The type of fabric used is completely up to the user and it’s easy enough that anyone with an iron will be able to get this done in no time at all!
This tutorial on how to laminate fabric used an iron-on transparent film that can be fixed in place and sewn onto any sewing machine. The finished products are protected from getting dirty, food-safe, and comfortable to clean with a damp cloth.
Cut out the pieces for your project and laminate them separately if they have simple shapes. For more intricate shapes, cut out a larger square of fabric and film and cut out the final piece after ironing to keep it from slipping while cutting it.
Is Laminated Cotton Waterproof?
For the most part, lamination is used to improve fabric. It makes fabrics more water-resistant and durable but less flexible so choose a simple pattern with little shaping or pleats when working with laminated fabric.
To make my fabric stash more manageable, I laminated the pieces of cloth that only had limited prints and were fairly expensive.
This way, I can use just how much lamination is needed without wasting money on large quantities of fabrics that would otherwise remain untouched in my supplies closet.
The best part was being able to customize it with material from other parts in my supply collection- so no fresh materials have been wasted!
What is Laminated Fabric Used For?
Use laminated fabrics like oilcloths for your next messy project, whether that’s a makeup bag, bib clothes, or placemat. They are easy to clean and don’t need much attention when it comes to the laundry!
Waxy fabric can be used to cover food in your fridge. You need to soak the waxed fabric in molten wax for this, or spread it evenly over the laid fabric and cook until melted and distributed throughout.
Tips For Working With Laminated Fabric
Fabric Preparing
- Laminated fabric is not the same as vinyl, so you need to use different supplies when sewing with it. You should also check out this article on how to sew vinyl.
- When applying the vinyl, use a ruler to make sure you remove about 1 inch of it. Fix this part on your fabric and slowly pull off the rest of it away from yourself in order to avoid air bubbles forming under there.
- Laminated fabrics do not typically wrinkle and only need to be ironed when necessary. If you must, always use backing paper or another piece of cloth so that the vinyl doesn’t come in contact with your iron during this process.
Sewing Laminated Fabric
- When pinning, use clips instead of pins. The holes will be permanent when you do this. If it’s not too big a deal to iron or blow-dry the fabric over your new dress, then go ahead and try that!
- Using a longer stitch length than usual is necessary to produce durable seams. Shorter stitches can weaken the seam and create holes, so use longer ones for better results.
- When sewing, your fabric may stick to the presser foot and feed dogs. To prevent this from happening you can use either Teflon or painter’s tape that covers the bottom of it for easier project completion.
- Thanks to the coating, laminated fabrics don’t fray and you can make clean end cuts without having to sew up at all.
Storing The Fabric
- To avoid wrinkling while storing or transporting, roll the fabric in a tube rather than folding it; creases can damage the coating but sometimes they can be fixed by ironing carefully.
- If your finished product gets wrinkled, use a hairdryer to fix the problem; it’s recommended that you set it on low and don’t touch the fabric.
- To preserve the shape of clothes, store bags made with laminated fabric and stuff inside. Also, hang clothing on a thick hanger.
Some Last Words
Above we shared all the tips & tricks about how to laminate cotton fabric. Laminating fabric at home is fun. Hope these tips will help you make the process easier.
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Happy Sewing!
Robert Patricia
Robert Patricia is a data analytic and content creator. He has worked extensively with large data sets to glean insights for both public and private sector clients. He has used this knowledge to create compelling content for brands across the internet. Albert also enjoys creating content for websites and social media. He is an expert at creating catchy headlines and understands how to capture the attention of readers.
