Sewing Faux Leather: A Complete Guide to Unique Creations
Leatherette is a trendy, ethical alternative to traditional leather, perfect for adding a bold touch to your outfits or fashion accessories.
If you’re ready to take on the challenge of working with this material, our step-by-step guide is here to help!
What is faux leather?
Faux leather is an imitation of real leather, made from synthetic materials. By choosing this type of “fabric”, you’re opting for conscious, animal-friendly fashion.
Needle selection
To sew faux leather, it’s essential to use sturdy needles. But be careful: we don’t use special leather needles! As imitation is considered a kind of thick plastic, a standard size 100 needle, or a special Jean’s needle, is more appropriate. Their specific design enables effortless piercing of the fabric, guaranteeing clean, strong seams.
Yarn selection
A cordonnet thread, often used for denim, is ideal for faux leather thanks to its strength and thickness. If you don’t have one on hand, use a classic all-fabric polyester thread.
Sewing machine settings
We recommend using a straight stitch with a slightly longer length than normal. Be careful not to overtighten your stitches to avoid creases or bumps (tension setting between 4 and 3).
Our Top Tips for Sewing Imitation Leather
- Use a roller presser foot or a double-drive foot for smooth seams.
- Avoid pins that leave marks; prefer clips or fabric clamps.
- For joining, glue can be an alternative to stitching.
- For finishing, leave the edges clean or use a suitable glue.
- Do not use an iron directly on imitation leather. If necessary, use an iron with synthetic settings and without steam, on the reverse side or with a damp cloth.
Care and maintenance
Thanks to its coated finish, imitation leather is an easy-care material. It can be machine-washed at low temperatures. For occasional stains, simply clean with a sponge or wipe soaked in soapy water. It’s important to avoid the use of bleach, and not to rub excessively to preserve the quality of the fabric.
What can I sew with leatherette?
To begin with, imitation leather is ideal for making bags and accessories. Whether you’re creating an elegant handbag, a practical clutch or even a sturdy wallet, this fabric offers the necessary strength and aesthetic appeal. Its variety of colors and textures means that each creation can be customized to suit individual tastes and needs.
Next, faux leather finds its place in apparel. It’s perfect for bold pieces like jackets, skirts or pants. These garments, when made in faux leather, exude timeless elegance and assertive character. What’s more, this material is a popular vegan alternative, offering the look of leather without the use of animal products.
In interior design, faux leather can be used to cover cushions, create headboards or chair covers. Its durability and luxurious appearance make it a wise choice for adding a touch of refinement to any living space.
Finally, for DIY enthusiasts, faux leather is a playground. From key rings to phone cases to book covers, the possibilities are endless. It allows you to create original, durable projects that stand the test of time and everyday use.
Don’t let the apparent complexity of faux leather intimidate you. With the right tools and techniques, you can transform this versatile material into long-lasting, stylish fashion creations. Get started with faux leather sewing and bring your most daring projects to life!
