You may be familiar with laminated fabrics if you are a fabric lover. Growing up, you probably saw them on upholstered chairs, tablecloths, and appliances.
Laminated cotton is basic woven 100% cotton coated with a phthalate-free laminate. This makes them soft and pliable, unlike vinyl.
Durability
Unlike the shiny, plastic-like fabrics we may remember from childhood (the kind that made you sweat if you sat on the chair for too long), today’s laminated substrates are pretty and pliable. They come in various colors and patterns and can be printed with any design.
The durability of laminated fabrics can vary based on the environment and how much wear and tear they’ll experience. Factors like heat exposure can also impact how often the fabric is used and whether it’s exposed to metal components that will cause friction.
A good way to test the durability of high-quality laminated fabric options is to use the Wyzenbeek Test, which simulates normal wear and tear by pushing a mechanical arm covered in cotton duck fabric against the material. This test equates to rubbing a piece of furniture fabric thousands of times throughout its lifetime. Fabric that undergoes heavy wear and tear can show signs of abrasion or delamination if it needs to be properly bonded or heat-treated.
Appearance
Laminated fabrics can be made from a variety of materials. They can be created with a layer of vinyl or plastic and a layer of fabric or made from paper, metal foil, or even tarpaulin. The purpose of lamination is to make the fabric more durable and moisture-resistant.
When choosing laminated fabrics, look for those that have a natural appearance. If the fabric looks painted and perfect, it could be higher quality. It is also important to choose a fabric that can be sewn easily.
Laminated cottons are soft and drapy, making them a great choice for clothing and items like aprons, bibs, bags, tote bags, tablecloths, etc. They are a great choice for children’s wear as they are BPA-free and PVC-free, so you can be sure your child is safe when using them. These fabrics are water and stain-resistant, so they are easy to clean.
Color
Laminated fabrics are a great option for many different types of applications, such as hotel furniture, cruise ship pool deck chairs, and even luggage. Fabric lamination can protect the fabric from water and sun damage, making it a durable and long-lasting option.
Laminated cotton is the softest and most pliable of all laminated fabrics. They start out as basic woven 100% cotton and then coated in a layer of Phthalate-free laminate (that’s the shiny side).
Laminated cottons are also easy to work with, as they don’t fray on the edges. However, it’s important to pay attention to the instructions on your pattern because they may have specific requirements for cutting out the pieces. For example, some will suggest using tape to hold the fabric in place so you don’t accidentally cut through the laminate lining. In other cases, the manufacturer will have specific ironing instructions to avoid damage to the laminate coating.
Price
Laminated cotton is a soft and pliable fabric made from basic woven 100% cotton coated with a phthalate-free laminate on one side. They are perfect for fashion and kid-friendly projects as they feel natural against the skin and can be sewn using any pattern.
When shopping for fabric, look for a company that offers competitive prices. Most major fabric chains have weekly coupons that can reduce your purchase price. Sign up for these via email, text message, or smartphone app to get notified of deals.
When sewing on laminated fabrics, use a larger needle than you would for regular cotton fabric. Typically, a Denim needle is the best size to use. Also, avoid folding your fabric, which can crease and wrinkle it. Rolling it is a good option instead. If you buy your fabric online, ask the store to ship it on a roll; this will keep it flat and crease-free until you are ready to use it.
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