We know…trying new stuff might feel a bit scary.

It gets even scarier when there are risks involved, like the fear of investing your hard-earned money, questioning your skills, or simply doubting whether you are enough.

It is hard to move away from cliches, but sometimes, when facing those tough bits, you end up stumbling upon cool chances to learn and grow. And most of the time, it will lead to discoveries that not only enrich your skills but also make you a more resilient and confident person.

In this blog post, we will share our take that hopefully will help you embark on the exciting journey of sewing with waterproof fabrics for the first time!

 

Common Concerns

 

Cost

We acknowledge that cost can indeed be a significant concern when it comes to exploring waterproof fabrics.

Many sewers may hesitate to delve into this ‘world’ due to the common perception that these specialized fabrics come with a hefty price tag.

While it is understandable, fortunately, it is not entirely true. Admittedly, they are more expensive per meter than the commonly used cotton or viscose. However, the rewards and growth in skill that come with working with waterproof fabrics can be even greater.

You open yourself up to new techniques, face new challenges, and embark on new projects – all contributing to your growth as a sewer in the long run, and for only a marginal increase in the price per meter.

 

Beginner Apprehension

We blame ‘perception’ on this one!

Let’s us explain: The notion that working with waterproof fabrics is complex and even intimidating for those new to sewing is, unfair.

While we can understand some would hesitate, especially when faced with something new (like everyone in every new step in their life), fortunately, the reality is not as daunting as it may seem.

Beginner apprehension can be an undesirable block, preventing new lovers of the art of sewing from exploring the creative possibilities that waterproof fabrics offer.

 

• Could it be the unfamiliarity that is causing you some apprehension? Take nylon, for instance – it might be a new fabric for you, while polyester is a familiar presence in many sewing projects, but both are sewed pretty much the same way with the same settings.

 

• Is it the thickness? Indeed it can vary, but that is what makes each fabric unique and interesting to work with. You adapt, get stronger needles, overcome the challenge and become better.

 

• Maybe composition of the fabric? As fabric retailers, by law, we have to provide you with comprehensive information about the materials we offer, helping you make informed decisions.

 

“What should I do then?” You are not alone in feeling a bit uncertain at the start but that is why we are here for! Find a project, ask us for guidance, we offer samples, test it and learn from it. We guarantee everything will work out in the end!

 

Complexity

How complex it looked like when you rode a bicycle for the first time? How easy it looked like after the first day?

The fear of complexity comes from the perceived difficulty in working with these specialized fabrics. We get daily emails from sewers telling us how concerned they are about ‘navigating’ these unique properties of waterproof fabrics, like breathability and waterproof coatings.

But let’s reflect on the bicycle analogy. (The bicycle analogy again?! 😅)

Remember the initial apprehension of balancing and steering on two wheels? It may have seemed like a complex task at first (and it was!). Yet, after that first day, the perceived complexity transformed into a newfound skill. Similarly, sewing with waterproof fabrics follows a similar trajectory. Try, fail, repeat…until you succeed! Now you can even sew your own bicycle cover! (Get it! Genius right? No? 😭)

On a more serious note, welcoming the learning process, just like getting the hang of riding a bike, leads to feeling fulfilled creatively and developing your skills.

 

Fabric’s Availability

Although widely available (pointing at us!) online, it is less available in physical stores when compared to cottons and fleeces, and that can be a problem.

Because customers often have to resort to online purchases, it might create a sense of hesitation, especially because you can physically see or feel them. For that same reason, we offer samples. Done. Problem sorted.

As the UK’s leading waterproof fabric supplier, we strive to assure you that we likely have exactly what you are looking for, whether it is a new coat for you, a bicycle cover (again, right? Ooops!) or a awning for your newly built patio.

 

 

Sewing with Waterproof Fabrics for the First Time?

 

So…thinking about sewing with waterproof fabrics for the first time?

Let’s address common concerns.

• Yes, the cost might be a bit more, but it’s an investment in gaining new skills.
• Beginner apprehension is normal, and we are here to guide you.
• Complexity is like learning any other new skill.
• We have got fabric availability covered. No need to worry about this one.

 

Oh… and we offer samples because ordering fabrics online shouldn’t be scarier than riding a bike for the first time!

 

 

---

This one was so much fun to write. It really speaks to the problems and concerns we address every day, so putting it together brings us immense joy.

Let us know if you want more of these ‘opinion’ types of blog posts!

Visit us at UK Fabrics Online.

If you have any questions, please email us diogo@ukfabrisonline.com or leave a comment here.

Hope you enjoy this one.

Thank you!