How to Sew Thick Fabric on a Sewing Machine: Best Practices

Sewing thick fabric can be a daunting task, especially on a sewing machine. However, with the right technique and materials, it is possible to sew thick fabrics with ease.

In this article, we will discuss how to sew thick fabric on a sewing machine, including the best practices and tips for successful results.

We will also discuss the various types of machines that are suitable for this task and the tools you need in order to achieve success. With this knowledge in hand, you can start sewing thick fabric like an expert!

What is Thick Fabric?

Thick fabric is defined as the distance between two fabric surfaces under a particular applied pressure, which varies depending on whether the fabric is high-loft or low-loft.

The following 3 suggestions can assist you if you are using a standard domestic sewing machine:

1) Do you really need so many lining layers? Most likely not. When trimming the extra (particularly for side seams), take care not to damage the stitching itself.

2) Use the largest needle size that is compatible with your sewing machine. Typically, a size 18 or 19 needle will let you to more successfully penetrate the several layers.

3) Only use the hand wheel when you are breaking needles, such as when you are sewing a purse strap.

They didn’t help, did they? Continue to break needles? It’s the capabilities of the machine, not you or your home sewing machine, that are the issue. It’s time to start considering sewing machines made for industrial use more seriously.

Your thick sewing jobs will have a much higher chance of being finished with portable walking foot industrial grade sewing machines.

Let’s review what we have discussed so far. I think this will help you remember what we have talked about:

1) You can use needles up to 22 or 23 gauge.

2) The walking foot and feed dogs have “grips” that aid in guiding the bulky fabric through the stitching process.

3) Using nylon thread and generally thicker, heavier thread will provide the stitching in your finished creation far superior strength and longevity.

4) For stitching heavy cloth, greater power, more RPMs, and more torque result with better outcomes.

A machine with full metal components and cast iron construction will be more durable than one with plastic components and construction.

Conclusion

When you choose to sew through numerous layers of cloth beneath your presser foot, sewing becomes difficult.

You should be better equipped to manage circumstances requiring you to stitch thick materials.

You must first ask yourself, “What kind of sewing machine am I using?” Because every sewing machine has its restrictions, this is quite important.