What do you need to sew fur with a machine?
Before you embark on your fur sewing journey, make sure you have the following tools and materials ready:
- Sewing machine with a walking foot
- Sharp sewing machine needles (size 14 or 16)
- All-purpose sewing thread
- Sharp scissors
- Seam ripper
- Tailor’s chalk or fabric marking pen
- Straight pins or clips
Preparation: Cutting and Marking
Start by laying your fur fabric on a flat surface, with the fur side facing down. Use tailor’s chalk or a fabric marking pen to mark your cutting line on the wrong side of the fabric. Keep in mind that fur has a nap, so make sure all your pattern pieces are facing the same direction.
Next, use sharp scissors to cut along the marked cutting line, taking care to only cut through the backing fabric and avoid cutting the fur. Fur can be challenging to cut with precision, so take your time and use small, careful snips if needed.
Sewing Techniques for Fur
Sewing fur requires some special techniques to achieve professional-looking results. Here are a few tips to help you sew fur with a machine:
- Use a walking foot: A walking foot helps to evenly feed the fur fabric through the machine, preventing it from shifting or stretching as you sew. This foot is specifically designed for sewing fabrics with varying thicknesses, such as fur.
- Choose the correct needle: Opt for sharp sewing machine needles in size 14 or 16 to easily penetrate the dense fur fabric. Changing the needle frequently is also recommended to maintain smooth sewing.
- Lengthen your stitch: Lengthen your stitch length slightly to avoid puncturing the fur or creating visible holes in the fabric.
- Pin or clip strategically: Instead of placing pins directly through the fur where they might be visible, try using clips or pinning in the seam allowances to hold the fabric layers together.
Finishing Touches
After sewing your fur project, you may need to trim any excess fur sticking out of the seams. Use sharp scissors to carefully trim the fur down to the seamline without cutting into the stitches.
If desired, you can also press the seams lightly using a pressing cloth and low heat to help the fur lay flat and blend seamlessly.
Sewing with fur can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to create luxurious garments, accessories, and home decor items. By following the techniques outlined in this machine sewing guide, you can confidently tackle any fur sewing project. Remember to take your time, use the right tools, and embrace the beauty of working with this exquisite fabric.