Tips for Using Waterproof Canvas in Bags

I use wateproof canvas almost exclusively for my bags' linings! You don't have to interface it, it's cheaper, plus you get the added bonus of telling customers the linings are waterproof!
I purchase the following waterproof canvas: www.fabricwholesaledirect.com...
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[@deeleach8300]

I love watching you, not only do I need and appreciate all the information, but the best part is your personality. You make me laugh-thanks lady.

[@fiercekittenz]

I appreciate that, thank you :)

[@josephinefonseca372]

Thank you I love your tutorials You give confidence to us newbies trying a new hobby

[@sandraellefson3674]

Thank you Hermosa! Your videos are always very educational. By far you are the best teacher. Sandra from Downey California.

[@jam4441]

So helpful, love your informative and fun videos.

[@micheleharrison5696]

I have been leery of trying waterproof canvas but your video has given me the confidence to try it. Thanks

[@ReeniEspino]

I love FWD! I used their printed Ottertex to make a knife bag/toolkit to use in my pastry work.

[@mommasmurf6776]

Great video. I think you have answered all my questions about using waterproof canvas for bags. Thank you.

[@karenraabis5296]

I recently bought some of this and your video popped up. I am a new subscriber now. Thank you for the valuable information!

[@emmacarpenter4055]

I love your fabulous informative tutorial. Just what I needed. Thanks for sharing.

[@SlytigerSurvival]

I noticed Walmart is selling this PVC-backed fabric called Pro-Tuff outdoor utility fabric inside most stores in the El Paso area for pretty cheap. I always use pinking shears to cut this for this PVC fabric as well as the hobby lobby and Great Wall of China mart duck cloth/duck canvas.

[@lydvincecruz8395]

Very helpful tips. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience 🙏

[@cyn4rest]

Great vid and excellent info. TFS your experience. I'm currently reupholstering our patio furniture with WPC. It is difficult but not impossible to sew the straight gussets to the curved areas. Would I do this again? NO! Lol. Cant wait to finish and get back to bag making! Thanks again.

[@mycozygardencottage]

Thank you! I just ordered some waterproof canvas and plan to line a bag with it. I love all your videos. :)

[@harteisjs]

Love the video and just to let you know you make it fun to learn

[@daisyhugs2024]

Amazing information on canvas and how to sew with it😀thank you 💗

[@nadiabittnerova9154]

You are wonderful, helpful and funny!!! Love it!!! You make me laugh! Appreciate your advices!!! 😁😘🙏🏼

[@rebekahkui]

Your info is always to relevant 👏🏽

[@FFPages]

glad i found this video. ran out of my usual lining, but had 3 different types of waterproof canvas. will steam it a little and use it for y totes.

[@lorrainepascoe5518]

So great full for the information you provide. Thank you 😊

[@maryshaver129]

Thank you for sharing your wisdom!

[@barbarayannatta9558]

Very good information on waterproof canvas. Thank you

[@KingofStreet3]

All this info will.come in handy, thanks, now to sketch out and make a cotton prototype.

[@pollycurtis8115]

I've learned so much by watching your videos!

[@SlytigerSurvival]

@fiercekittenz It is known, your channel shall surely grow. I am male and very new to sewing, and wish I got into this years ago! I already have 3 Kenmores, 2 singer crappy duties, an Amazon Chinese shoe cobbler,a brother embroiderer, a brother serger, and a Thor 1541 coming to my doorstep today! I noticed Walmart is selling this PVC-backed fabric called Pro-Tuff outdoor utility fabric inside most stores in the El Paso area for pretty cheap

[@mariannem8419]

Thank you so much. I'm going to get some and try it.

[@fiercekittenz]

It's so good!!! Saves me a LOT of prep time because I don't need to mess with interfacing.

[@TheWanderingWife]

I’ve become a huge fan of WPC, and I use it both for the inside and outside of my bags. It’s so sturdy too! One suggestion for your videos, black fabric is very hard to see well in them. A lighter color would be better. 😁

[@fiercekittenz]

Ugh yeah I know!!! I thought about it AFTER I filmed. :( I hope at least the close up shots on the main camera helped. That's a Sony a6000 and it tends to pick up every detail (which is why I had to start wearing makeup this year, because holy crap PORES!)

[@brendaeves3236]

Great help and information re using waxed canvas

[@jackyf3505]

I'm topping up on info - especially technique for waterproof canvass, before venturing a bit beyond than the absolute basics that I've done so far. I'm now thinking of lining a back pack with it so your demo is very timely. The pattern isn't finalised but this makes me think if there are any curved sections, I'll pull out the mini clips that have a smaller point of contact rather than a 1cm line. I think they could really help with holding the fabric along a more curved stitching line, providing they have the strength of grip needed for this rather unyielding fabric - fingers crossed.

[@fiercekittenz]

For the curved areas, make sure to clip into the fabric a little with some smaller scissors. All along the curve - it'll make it a LOT easier to work with as the waterproof canvas has no bias.

[@tonyastokley5165]

Very good video ! Very detail ! Ty for the truthful advice and the help on working with this ! I see the canvas is for the lining ! You mentioned in another video was acrylic for your sleeves ? Is that a different way or how would you use that ? So you have a video on must haves to buy to have on hand when making bags ? Ty again beautiful video ! Lol also so this you only use this for the lining ? What about a wallet sleeves ? Is that the acrylic ? Do you have a video on that one as well ! I’m sorry to keep asking so many questions but one lastly please lol around for the smaller bags you sell around hoe much would you guess around about how much does it take to use this type of fabric linings ? Like is 5 yards a good amount to last for a few bags ? I was thinking going with white Abd black to start ? Or maybe blue also or pink ? I guess this would be preference as far as that goes but to get basic materials to start out maybe just the two ! Or does white stain any I wonder !? Okay again ty soo much !

[@aprildamski8365]

Thank you so much for this video! Very helpful!

[@fiercekittenz]

You're so welcome!

[@v.r.sumner9693]

Thanks. Very helpful!

[@lindajoy3883]

Sometimes I cut the curves with pinking shears from the get go. It helps a little.

[@fiercekittenz]

GREAT tip!

[@deedakomj3256]

Hello! I am stuck trying to figure out the best thread for sewing through waterproof canvas. I bought some Affinity 40 but it seems so thin. I only make bags and use a combination of vinyl, WPC, and cotton lined with SF101, thermo fuse, and maybe foam. Love your videos!

[@janelbrieske1862]

Good information. Thank you.

[@zeltus5]

You rock! Thanks for the help😁

[@fiercekittenz]

No problem!

[@teresawheat8966]

Great instructions

[@annjelley5363]

Hi, thanks for all the information on waterproof material and bag making in general, so glad I found your channel. (Sorry - English spelling!). Please could you tell me which thread you are using on your industrial machine? It looks much thicker than regular dressmaking Gutterman thread. Also, do you use the same thread in your bobbin? I’m new to all this, and there’s SO MUCH TO LEARN! I hope I can get waterproof canvas here in the UK. LOVE YOUR VIDEOS, don’t stop! Best wishes. Ann.

[@fiercekittenz]

Hi! Yes I use Tex 80 thread from Wizardry Stitchery & Crafts: Solid Colors: geekyhardware.com/collections/sewing-string/products/tex-80-solid-colors Variegated Colors: geekyhardware.com/collections/sewing-string/products/tex-80-variegated-colors I do use the same thread in the bobbin!

[@geridine1]

Thank you so much for making this video as I had a lot of questions about the waterproof canvas and you did answer them! I love all your videos and you are very informative and explain things so well! I do have a question about the thread, what kind of thread do you use with the waterproof canvas? Thank you so much!

[@fiercekittenz]

I sew bags mostly on my Juki DU-1181N and use Tex 69 Thread! I have a whole video talking just about thread if you want to go check that out.

[@karenmaltese3334]

​@@fiercekittenzWhen you cut out pattern pieces out of WPC, do you use pattern weights to secure your pattern?

[@evamaile8541]

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. And by the way I swear you're in the movie" Princess Diary". Love you to pieces

[@fiercekittenz]

Oh no. Oh no no no. LOL. I'm not an actress.

[@evamaile8541]

@@fiercekittenz I know but that's how I see your personality, and no matter what my day is like you help make it better

[@sharonarmstrong4578]

In Australia we are paying around $32.00 per metre for wp canvas.

[@daudyusuf2634]

Great info

[@dawn5227]

My son wants me to make him a back pack with WPC as the exterior fabric... I am not looking forward to it! But this will help me in my attempt. Lol

[@MadeByTriniLena]

Best waterproof canvas✂️🧵

[@susanarendas]

This is a great idea. Quick couple of questions: Do you buy most if your supplies wholesale? What do you legally need to do so? And do you use a business email for that or personal? Can you tell I’m just getting started?! 😆

[@fiercekittenz]

I actually don't use wholesale! But... the bare minimum you need is to register your business as a DBA (Doing Business As) with your state. Then pay extra to get the Federal Tax ID (FEIN) for your business. That's what wholesale companies will be looking for when giving you pricing. I tend to just buy in bulk from places like FWD.com for the waterproof canvas and then Country Brook Design for hardware.

[@koreanitz]

Hi! Im using ottertex for a canvas waterproof bag (for exterior) what interfacing you recomend?

[@Beckymegan]

In the future would you mind also mentioning what needle and thread type you use :)

[@fiercekittenz]

Oh yeah totally! For this, I was using my industrial so it was a size 21 needle with Tex 70 bonded nylon thread. For a domestic machine, a size 90/14 needle with all purpose thread is totally fine.

[@ccassidy2006]

Hi! Love your videos! You make it fun to learn! I have a question, what size of needle should you use for the waterproof canvas and what kind of thread! I am making something with multiple layers of the waterproof canvas and could really use your advice. I have been using a size 20 needle with a v92 thread. Is that overkill?

[@fiercekittenz]

On my industrial Juki I always use a size 21 needle. On a domestic machine, the highest I could go was 16, so I'd use that. Usually it was the motor that would give out on me with a domestic machine when I threw layers at it. Needles were never the problem.

[@ccassidy2006]

@@fiercekittenz Thank you so much for your reply!

[@biancamartinez2504]

What kind/type of yarn do you use for the canvas?

[@carolsegl3577]

What thread and needle are you using? I have an Emerald 118. Going to sew boat canvas repair.

[@ShopperPlug]

How do you make a waterproof bag that can be used for aeroponic gardening for the root chamber? Basically do not want the water leaking out the bag's seams. I'll be using a very tiny water droplet mists which will coat the roots with water. Eventually these mists will form water droplets when they hit the inner bag's wall and dropdown to the bag's floor and create a puddle of water.

[@siniestra9324]

hello! please help me, i dont know what sewing machine buy. im into singer heavy duty 4432, toyota power fabriq 17, or brother st371hdi. i want to make vinyl or lether bags and also clothes. sorry for my english

[@daudyusuf2634]

Thank you much

[@micstica]

How about if you left square corners on the fabric, chalk line the curve you want, sew the curve line and then cut away the tips?

[@sandrataylor3563]

Could you put heat transfer vinyl on it?

[@sunseekerrs3087]

Thank you for introducing us to waterproof canvas! I just bought some printed and solid colored Ottertex with the hope of making totes (no curved seams). If I used the Ottertex for both the outer and inner lining of the bag, would that work without having to add stabilizer or interfacing? I just have a domestic machine.

[@fiercekittenz]

It's not stiff enough to hold its shape, so as long as it's a bag meant to have a little give and not hold a firm shape you're fine.

[@sunseekerrs3087]

@@fiercekittenz ok, good to know. I’ll check it out once I get it too. Thank you very much.

[@busheybrent724f]

For bag lining, do you place a cotton on top of the ottertex? Could ottertex be used just by itself? Thank you for sharing your amazing wealth of knowledge! :-)

[@fiercekittenz]

I use the ottertex all by itself.

[@geridine1]

I have one more question to ask, if you were going to interface the waterproof canvas, what kind of interfacing would you use?

[@fiercekittenz]

I have used foam before, just for structure. Like if I use Waterproof Canvas for the lining and the bag calls for Foam, I'll use it on the lining instead of the exterior. Otherwise, I honestly don't think it's wise to do any interfacing that's iron-on, because you may remove the water proofing qualities with all that heat.

[@ShantesTravelThings]

I make dry bags and some of the bags, It seems my stitching for the bottom of the bag is great, no leaking, but sometimes their is even when I triple check my stitching. How do you make sure in a completely waterproof fabric project that the seems are sealed tight? No water is getting through.

[@geridine1]

What kind of thread do you use with the waterproof canvas? Your videos are great, and I learn a lot from them. Thank you!

[@fiercekittenz]

I prefer my bonded nylon thread, to be honest. It's stronger. If you aren't using an industrial machine, upholstery thread will do just fine!

[@BNJBarber]

Can I use upholstery thread on my Janome M7? Pretty heavy thread, isnt it?

[@lisabraga1265]

OMG I buy WPF and want to make skirt, but have problem , the machine stretches the seam, the seam is free. Maybe there are some special command in the machine or the needle? help me pls. I have jack f4. pls 😢😢😢😢😢

[@TyBraek]

Do you have any problems with puckering when not using the walking foot machine? I’ve used other waterproof fabrics that have a more rubbery texture and I get a ton of puckering. I got a sample of this and the coating seems more plasticy than rubbery. I want to use this but if it’s a pain to sew than I’d rather not.

[@fiercekittenz]

Yes, I have had puckering! You can snip into it a little bit, within the seam allowance, or something a viewer suggested on another video was to use pinking shears on the edges!

[@donnahaynes8766]

I am trying hard to use only natural or reusable/recyclable fabrics. some sites have said that water-proof canvas has a plasticized layer but you call it rubberized. My question is which is it and is it environmentally green?

[@fiercekittenz]

I honestly don't know. The brand I use is Ottertex if that helps?

[@BeautifulOaks]

Hi. I noticed the seam was made on the rubberized side of the fabric. Is that to say that the rubberized side is not the show side of the lining? Does water leak through the stitches when using rubberized fabric? Thanks.

[@fiercekittenz]

Right, the canvas side is the RIGHT side of the fabric. The rubberized portion is the WRONG side. If you want it to be truly waterproof, you'd likely have to seal the seam allowance on the wrong side before closing up the bag - and make sure the opening is somewhere along the side or in the top-most stitch (for a tote). Sealing could be done with puffy paint FWIW.

[@lynle1083]

Hi! I would greatly appreciate your guidance on sewing with canvas. I’ve used canvas for 2 large totes, and a mini book bag now. I use a domestic, plus heavy weight thread, a walking foot, and tension set between 6-7. My top stitches look great. However, my bottom stitches appear wavy or slanted. I’ve watched videos that claim this is “normal” but ughhh 🥺 Any guidance?

[@fiercekittenz]

There's a couple of my videos that may help you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqvTkqeJYrCYhpI and kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYLCZnaHjtGonNk Both cover strategies for thicker fabrics.

[@lynle1083]

@@fiercekittenz Thank you! 🙏

[@sharonarmstrong4578]

I have some 300D wpc which I would like to use for parts of the exterior of a handbag. What do you suggest I could use to stabilize it?

[@fiercekittenz]

It depends on the handbag style. Is it structured or slouchy? If structured, foam or decovil are great options. If it's slouchy, you may get away with no interfacing at all as long as the WPC has that rubberized backing. If no backing and it just looks like canvas on both sides, woven interfacing like SF101 works great.

[@Designsbyizzi]

Thank you for the video, how do you store your waterproof canvas? I have seen them on huge rolls. So you have any idea where I can buy them? 😊

[@fiercekittenz]

I actually just leave it folded up as you see on the thumbnail. Then I have a closet with loads of shelving and stash it there. I have had good luck going to a Joanns and asking for the deco fabric rolls they are going to throw out.

[@Designsbyizzi]

@@fiercekittenz thank you

[@robinbebbington7063]

The canvas you mention is approximately 6 times the price in Australia. Searching eBay for alternatives

[@fiercekittenz]

Hopefully someone can chime in! I'm in the States, so I don't know pricing for some of these products outside of my own country. Y'all are going to have to research a bit.

[@rubyc.4311]

Is this fabric same as outdoor fabric? Like the ones used for outdoor cushions, or umbrella?

[@fiercekittenz]

I believe so, yes!

[@kerstinhamilton5935]

How do I go about to make the inside and outside waterproof? I want to make a horn/pommel bag for my saddle. I just use double canvas ?

[@fiercekittenz]

Hey! Sorry for the late response - if you want it to be TRULY waterproof, you're going to need to seal the seams somehow. I'm not sure the appropriate way. If it's just for you, you could maybe use puffy paint along the seams on the inside. For an actual bag to sell though? No clue :( I know the canvas itself is waterproof, but I always just list my bags as "water resistant".

[@Tradesman1156]

You're such a freak! I love your videos. I learn a lot! I really want use this on the outside!!! I have some, I think I will (stop me Sneed)

[@pamelajackson2498]

I pressed the canvas side and it ruined my fabric! Yikes…not sure what I did wrong?

[@jennifermccart5275]

Your funny. Thank you for the video; cuz I was wondering too

[@marybethkilmer174]

Would using an awl while sewing said curve damage the canvas?

[@fiercekittenz]

As long as you're safe with it and don't poke at the fabric you're fine.

[@juliehall3987]

Hi how do you finish the seams to make them look nice and also how do you make the seams waterproof? 😊

[@fiercekittenz]

When I use the canvas, the seams are inside-out and sandwiched with the exterior fabric, so I haven't had to worry about finishing them. As far as waterproofing the seams, you really can't unless you silicone or edge kote the seams from the inside.

[@juliehall3987]

@@fiercekittenz ok thank you 😊

[@karenmaltese3334]

How do you cut the pattern pieces since you can't pin WPC? Do you use weights?

[@fiercekittenz]

I do usually use weights. I don't have anything fancy, just huge 3" washers from a hardware store that I bought in a box of 20. I stack them up and distribute them. I honestly tried to make a few with the resin printer, but I couldn't paint them to look nice enough IMHO.

[@mnharlan7662]

I am concerned that my stitches will nullify the “waterproof” part. Have you had anyone tell you they have found that to be a problem?

[@fiercekittenz]

Oh yeah absolutely. If you really want a water-tight bag, you'll have to use some kind of silicone glue to seal up the seams.

[@michellekane449]

So when do you use this? For the lining of anything?

[@fiercekittenz]

MOSTLY linings. You can use it on the exterior, but it's very stiff and hard to work around curved edges without it looking pinched. But it's flipping fantastic for linings!

[@annjelley5363]

PS: what type of needle is it you are using please?? Xx

[@fiercekittenz]

This is my industrial Juki-DU1181N. I'm using a size 21 needle.

[@leonabutchart2962]

What is the difference between waterproof canvas and polyurethane fabrics used in children wear?

[@fiercekittenz]

I honestly don't know. I could tell you that there's waterPROOF and waterRESISTANT fabrics. The "proof" which I demonstrated here has the rubberized backing. The resistant version will still let water through, but it beads up on the surface until it gets overwhelmed with moisture and seeps through. It's a lot easier to sew the resistant stuff for sure. Are you thinking of the PLU fabric used for cloth diapering maybe?

[@Lisag1222]

I just got so much sunbrella material given to me. Would this be the same?

[@fiercekittenz]

I'm not familiar with that one. I use Ottertex!

[@Lisag1222]

It is a marine material used to make canopies. I have 2 juki machines (neither industrial). I tried making a simple grocery tote but that was before watching your thread video...thank you all your helpful videos!

[@JosePerez-rg6wy]

Is a 90/14 needle ok for using canvas

[@fiercekittenz]

Yes, it should be fine!

[@sewventurous]

What’s the best way to store waterproof canvas? Folding them seems to leave a crease.

[@fiercekittenz]

I actually do fold it up! But you can steam it out (of course from the fabric side) and it gets all fixed up. Loooots of steam is what helps. It doesn't melt away the rubberized backing, but it will help relax it.

[@Kera.S.]

I have always heard not to iron WPC. So glad I found your video. You have Definitely got a new subscriber! Loved your content and You!

[@fiercekittenz]

@@Kera.S. Thank you!!!

[@drmattorr]

Where do you get the pattern for the cute messenger bag?

[@fiercekittenz]

Oh that's Blue Calla's Sweet Pea Messenger! It's free on her website :)

[@drmattorr]

Fierce Kittenz thanks 😊

[@tammiesouthworth7135]

What colors do you buy for lining

[@fiercekittenz]

I like to stick to common colors like black, gray, silver, navy. You see I have some aqua in there - that's because I had invested in a LOT of fabric with that tone in it :)

[@justinsantana6311]

Can I use this for jackets and pants?

[@fiercekittenz]

No. WAY too stiff.

[@vendyuk]

Hi, what is the weight of the waterproof Canvas?

[@fiercekittenz]

I'm not sure exactly. It's not far off from a regular canvas. Not as thick as duck cloth for sure.

[@asylumhandicrafts]

What side is the right side? Canvas or rubber?

[@fiercekittenz]

The rubber would be the wrong side. The right side is the canvas.

[@kimfaulk5776]

What is the difference between duck cloth and waterproof canvas?

[@fiercekittenz]

Duck cloth is a lot stiffer and thicker. It doesn't have the waterproofing.

[@laanitabest8460]

What is the difference in waterproof canvas and Cordura? Have you ever used it as a lining?

[@fiercekittenz]

I've never used Cordura! Sorry :(

[@barbarak413]

Hi I have asked this same question. As in south africa shops we have cordura. Looks like it's the same. Pity she didnt didn't use a lighter colour. I thinks its cordura but maybe a light weight like d310 and not d600.

[@missbiscuit21]

@@barbarak413 at Chamdor or Metro I buy normal waterproof canvas, another option is Drymac fabric.

[@castil793]

"You coul spill a coke in your bag" -that's exactly why I'm here.

[@fiercekittenz]

Right? LOL!

[@oakridgereview1359]

What's the rotary knife? 👀

[@fiercekittenz]

It's from Famore Cutlery!

[@oakridgereview1359]

@@fiercekittenz that looks perfect for leather! I love it lol thank youuu

[@dainashanks6326]

I wish I had seen this video before burning the rubber onto my iron 🤣

[@fiercekittenz]

We've ALL done it. Imagine doing this with a big 15x15" heat press :(

[@kipclairday1431]

🤗your great

[@fiercekittenz]

You too

[@Jckay2003]

using a stiletto can spare fingers

[@fiercekittenz]

Oh yeah! I didn't think to reach for mine from Famore.

[@mrnintendkid]

wow we have a tom nook, link AND METROID in the background? we can be friends

[@fiercekittenz]

Hahaha yep! I have lots of Nintendo stuff!

i make dry bags out waterproof canvases.