Is Bamboo Fabric Hard to Sew?

Because bamboo fabric is so super soft and breathable, this can make it smooth, slippery and stretchy. But with some quick tips you’ll soon find that sewing bamboo textiles just as easy as other materials.

Top tips for sewing bamboo fabric

Use a walking foot or a needle with a smaller eye

When it comes to sewing bamboo fabric, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. One of the most important considerations is that bamboo fabric tends to be quite slippery. This means that it can be difficult to keep the fabric in place while you are sewing.

To overcome this, many sewists and seamstresses recommend using a walking foot, which helps to grip the fabric and move it evenly through the machine, preventing slipping or shifting, or a needle with a smaller eye.

When the eye of the needle is smaller, the needle itself is stronger, which allows it to penetrate the fabric more easily and hold it in place while sewing, making the process much easier.

The size of the eye of a sewing machine needle is measured in fractions of millimeters. A smaller eye size is typically considered to be around 0.5mm or smaller. However, it’s important to note that the exact size of the needle you use will depend on the type of fabric you are sewing and the weight of the thread you are using.

For example, when sewing with lightweight bamboo fabric, it’s generally recommended to use a size 70/10 or 80/12 needle, which typically has a smaller eye than larger needles.

Put a new, sharp needle in your machine before you start

Another important consideration when sewing bamboo fabric is that it tends to be quite delicate. This means that you need to be very careful when handling the fabric, as it can easily snag or tear.

To avoid this, it is recommended that you use a very sharp needle and take your time when sewing.

The lifespan of a sewing machine needle can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the type of fabric being sewn, the thickness of the thread being used, and the quality of the needle itself. Generally speaking, a sewing machine needle should be replaced after every 8-10 hours of sewing time or after completing a large project.

Over time, a sewing machine needle can become dull or bent, which can cause the fabric to snag or the thread to break. It’s important to check the needle regularly while sewing and replace it if there are any signs of wear or damage.

Some signs that a needle may need to be replaced include skipped stitches, uneven stitches, thread breakage, or visible damage to the needle itself. Additionally, if the needle has been used to sew through thick or heavy fabrics, it may need to be replaced more frequently as this can cause it to become dull more quickly.

Prewash your bamboo fabric

It is worth noting that bamboo fabric tends to shrink quite a bit when it is washed. This means that you need to prewash the fabric before you start sewing, in order to avoid any unexpected shrinkage.

Be sure to follow the bamboo fabric’s washing instructions. Bamboo fabrics typically need a cool wash in a gentle detergent followed by air drying.

Additionally, you may want to consider using a larger seam allowance when sewing bamboo fabric, in order to account for any shrinkage that may occur.

A larger seam allowance means that there is more fabric between the edge of the fabric and the stitching line.

The most common seam allowance for sewing is 1/2 inch (1.27 cm), but some patterns or projects may call for a larger seam allowance of 5/8 inch (1.58 cm) or more. A larger seam allowance can provide more stability to the seam and make it stronger, particularly when sewing heavy or bulky fabrics.

A larger seam allowance can also give you more flexibility if you need to make adjustments to the size or fit of a garment. If a garment is too small, for example, you can let out the seams by sewing with a smaller seam allowance. Conversely, if a garment is too large, you can take in the seams by sewing with a larger seam allowance.

What can I make from bamboo fabric?

Bamboo fabric is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of projects, from clothing to home decor. Here are some of the easiest things to make from bamboo fabric:

1. Face masks – Bamboo fabric is a soft and breathable material that can make comfortable and effective face masks. There are many patterns available online for making face masks from bamboo fabric.
2. T-shirts – Bamboo fabric is lightweight and comfortable, making it a great choice for making t-shirts. Simple t-shirt patterns can be found online or in sewing books.
3. Pillowcases – Bamboo fabric can make soft and silky pillowcases that are gentle on the skin. Pillowcases are a simple sewing project that can be made with just a few straight seams.
4. Scarves – Bamboo fabric can make lightweight and comfortable scarves that are perfect for warmer weather. Scarves can be made by cutting a rectangular piece of fabric and hemming the edges.
5. Baby blankets – Bamboo fabric is hypoallergenic and gentle on sensitive skin, making it a great choice for baby blankets. Baby blankets can be made by cutting a rectangular piece of fabric and hemming the edges.

These are just a few ideas for easy sewing projects using bamboo fabric. With its softness and versatility, bamboo fabric can be used for a wide range of projects and can be a great choice for both beginners and experienced sewers alike.