Want to create something cozy and luxurious? Learning how to sew faux fur can open up a world of possibilities! Faux fur fabric, known for its resemblance to real fur, presents unique challenges, but don’t let that intimidate you. Many crafters find Simplicity patterns helpful when starting their faux fur projects, offering guidance on garment construction. Proper tools are key, so be sure your rotary cutter has a sharp blade to minimize shedding during the cutting process. Even the celebrated Tilly and the Buttons sewing community has tackled faux fur, proving that with the right approach, anyone can master this fun technique. Let’s dive into simple tips and tricks for sewing faux fur without the frustrating shedding!
Taming the Fluff: Your Guide to Sewing Faux Fur Like a Pro (Without the Mess!)
So, you’re thinking about diving into the wonderfully fuzzy world of faux fur sewing? Awesome! It might seem a little intimidating at first, but trust me, with a few tricks up your sleeve, you can create some seriously amazing projects. The secret weapon? Knowing how to minimize that dreaded shedding and make the whole process way easier. Let’s break down how to conquer sewing faux fur, even if you’re just starting out!
The best way to approach this "how to sew faux fur" challenge is by focusing on these key areas, making each a section of your article:
- Choosing the Right Fur (It Makes a HUGE Difference!) Not all faux furs are created equal. Some shed more than a golden retriever in July! We’ll explore different types and what to look for to minimize the furry fallout.
- Essential Tools & Preparation (Setting Yourself Up for Success) Gather your trusty tools! Special needles, walking foot, and seam ripper are key to success.
- Cutting Faux Fur Like a Boss (The Trick to Minimizing Shedding) The way you cut faux fur is crucial. We’ll cover the "score and separate" method, which is a game-changer.
- Sewing It All Together (Tips & Tricks for Smooth Seams) This is where the magic happens! We’ll dive into stitch settings, seam allowances, and techniques for avoiding bulky seams.
- Dealing with Shedding (Because It Happens!) Even with the best prep, some shedding is inevitable. We’ll cover simple ways to manage and minimize it post-sewing.
Let’s delve deeper into each section:
1. Choosing the Right Fur (It Makes a HUGE Difference!)
- Fiber Content: Look for furs with tightly woven backings. The tighter the weave, the less shedding you’ll experience. Polyester and acrylic blends are generally good choices.
- Pile Length: Shorter pile furs tend to shed less than those with super long, luxurious piles. Think about your project and choose accordingly.
- Density: A dense fur will be less prone to shedding than a sparse one. Give the fur a gentle tug. If a lot of fibers come out easily, it’s probably not a good choice.
- Test it! Ask if you can have a small scrap to test. Cut it, sew a small seam, and see how it sheds. This will save you a lot of frustration later.
2. Essential Tools & Preparation (Setting Yourself Up for Success)
Having the right tools is half the battle! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rotary Cutter & Cutting Mat: For precise cutting using the score and separate method.
- Sharp Scissors: For trimming fur and cleaning up edges.
- Walking Foot (or Even Feed Foot): This foot helps feed both layers of fabric evenly, preventing slipping and bunching. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver!
- Long, Heavy-Duty Needles: A size 90/14 or 100/16 needle is recommended for thicker faux furs. Ballpoint needles can also help prevent skipped stitches.
- Strong Thread: Polyester or heavy-duty cotton thread will hold up best.
- Seam Ripper: Because mistakes happen!
- Pins or Clips: Use plenty of pins or clips to hold your fabric in place, especially when sewing curves.
3. Cutting Faux Fur Like a Boss (The Trick to Minimizing Shedding)
This is the most important part for controlling shedding! Don’t just hack away with scissors.
- Lay your fabric fur-side down. Trace your pattern onto the backing with a marker or chalk.
- Use a sharp rotary cutter to "score" the backing only. Apply gentle pressure to cut through the backing without cutting the fur.
- Gently pull the fur apart along the scored line. This minimizes cut fur fibers and prevents shedding.
- If necessary, use sharp scissors to carefully trim any remaining backing. Be very careful not to cut the fur.
4. Sewing It All Together (Tips & Tricks for Smooth Seams)
Alright, let’s sew! Here are some tips for beautiful, shed-free seams:
- Stitch Length: Use a slightly longer stitch length (3-3.5mm) to prevent the needle from getting buried in the fur.
- Seam Allowance: A wider seam allowance (1/2 inch or more) provides more stability and reduces shedding.
- Test your Settings: Before sewing your project, test your stitch settings on a scrap of fur.
- Pressing: Pressing faux fur can melt the fibers. Instead, use your fingers or a point turner to gently flatten the seams.
- Avoid Overlocking: Overlocking can create bulk and increase shedding. Instead, consider binding the edges or using a zigzag stitch to secure the seam allowance.
5. Dealing with Shedding (Because It Happens!)
Okay, even with all the precautions, you’ll likely have some shedding. Don’t panic!
- Shake it Out: Give your project a good shake outdoors to remove loose fibers.
- Vacuum: Use a handheld vacuum or upholstery attachment to gently vacuum the fur.
- Lint Roller: A lint roller is your best friend! Use it to remove any remaining loose fibers.
- Brush It Out: Use a soft-bristled brush (like a pet brush or a baby hairbrush) to gently brush the fur and remove any trapped fibers.
- Wash Strategically: If your project is washable, wash it inside out on a gentle cycle. This can help remove any remaining loose fibers. Dry on low heat or air dry.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to sewing amazing faux fur projects without the shedding nightmare!
FAQ: Sewing Faux Fur
What’s the best way to minimize shedding when cutting faux fur?
Always cut faux fur from the backing side using a sharp craft knife or rotary cutter. Only cut the backing, avoiding the fur fibers. This prevents cutting the individual hairs and reduces shedding. How to sew faux fur starts with the right cutting technique!
What kind of stitch length should I use for sewing faux fur?
A longer stitch length, around 3-4mm, is generally better for sewing faux fur. This helps to avoid the needle pulling and bunching the fabric, which can contribute to shedding and a less professional seam.
How do I deal with the bulkiness of faux fur seams?
Trim the seam allowances close to the stitching line after sewing. You can also grade the seams by trimming each layer of the seam allowance to a different width. This reduces bulk and allows the seam to lie flatter. Learn how to sew faux fur properly and make your seams less bulky.
Do I need a special needle to sew faux fur?
Yes, a universal needle, size 80/12 or 90/14, often works well for sewing faux fur. However, a walking foot can also be invaluable as it helps to feed both layers of the faux fur evenly under the needle, preventing slippage and bunching. This makes how to sew faux fur easier.
So, don’t be intimidated! Sewing faux fur can be a really fun and rewarding project. Just remember these tips, take your time, and don’t be afraid to experiment a little. Before you know it, you’ll be a pro at how to sew faux fur and creating all sorts of cozy and stylish things. Happy sewing!