How to Sew Oilcloth

Co-authored by Jessica Gibson

Last Updated: August 6, 2020

Oilcloth is a great fabric for waterproof sewing projects. Since it's coated with thin plastic, you'll need to make a few adjustments to your sewing machine. Use thicker needles and longer stitches to prevent the fabric from tearing. Replace your standard foot presser with a plastic foot presser that can slide over the fabric. Once you've stitched your project, you can use it right away or finish the edges.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:
Setting up Your Machine

1
Select a sharp size 14 or 16 needle. You'll need to use very sharp needles to punch through the tough oilcloth. Use a size 14 or 16 needle so it can withstand the sturdy fabric. If you use weaker needles, they may bend or snap.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- You can also check the fabric store for needles designed for sewing denim. These should be strong enough to work with oilcloth.
2
Use polyester thread in your favorite color. If you want your project to have a waterproof quality, use polyester thread that won't absorb moisture. You can choose a thread color that matches the fabric so it blends in, or pick a color that stands out. For example, bright green or red thread really pops against black oilcloth.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- If you're not concerned about having waterproof qualities, you could also use standard cotton thread.
Advertisement
3
Adjust your straight stitch between 3.0 and 3.5 mm. Since it's easiest to use oilcloth with basic shapes such as squares or rectangles, use a straight stitch. To avoid punching too many holes in the oilcloth, use a longer stitch than you usually would. For example, adjust the machine for a 3.0 to 3.5 mm stitch.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- If you do plan on stitching curves, consider decreasing the length of the stitch between 2.5 and 3 mm.
4
Use a teflon presser foot to prevent the oilcloth from sticking. Since a standard metal presser foot may stick to the oilcloth, remove it and pop a teflon presser foot in place. You can buy a plastic teflon presser foot at most fabric supply stores. If you can't find them, stick a little masking tape on the bottom of the presser foot so it slides over the oilcloth.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- If you're still struggling to get the presser foot to glide, turn the fabric over so you're stitching the back of the oilcloth. This will make it easier to feed the fabric through the machine.
Advertisement

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:
Stitching the Oilcloth

1
Lay out the oilcloth for a few hours to remove the wrinkles. If your oilcloth was folded or came in a box, it will be creased when you lay lay it flat. To remove the wrinkles without damaging the oilcloth, lay it out for a few hours in a warm room. The wrinkles should disappear once the fabric warms a little.
- If it's sunny and warm outside, you can lay the oilcloth outdoors.
- Don't use an iron to smooth the oilcloth or you could damage the fabric.
2
Choose a pattern for your oilcloth. Baby items such as bibs, mess mats, and diaper bags are popular projects to make with oilcloth. You can also find patterns at fabric stores or online for common kitchen items such as aprons, place mats, shelf liners, and tablecloths. For other oilcloth items around the house, make:^{[5]
X
Research source}
- Book covers
- Pen or crayon cases
- Outdoor throw pillows
- Lunch sacks
- Shopping cart seat covers
3
Cut the fabric and sew it according to your pattern. Use standard shears or scissors to cut the oilcloth according to the pattern you chose. Follow the instructions for stitching it using your sewing machine.
- Because oilcloth is so thick and sturdy, avoid sewing it by hand.
4
Use clips when joining layers of oilcloth. If your pattern calls for stitching layers of oilcloth together, it's helpful to hold them in place. Use fabric clips, paperclips, binder clips, or clothespins to prevent the fabric from moving as you sew.^{[6]
X
Research source}
- Avoid using pins because these will poke holes in the fabric. The holes will make the fabric more likely to tear and will compromise its waterproof quality.
5
Finish the edges, if desired. Since the edges of oilcloth won't fray, you don't have to hem or finish the edges. If you'd like a decorative look, finish the edges by cutting them with pinking shears or decorative scissors. You can also hem the edges for a classic finished look.
- For example, cut just the edges with zigzag edge scissors to make a fun look.
Advertisement

Community Q&A

Question

Can a rotary cutter work for cutting oilcloth?

Midmorrow

Community Answer

It would probably not work as well, but you can definitely attempt it! Make sure it's sharp so you get the best cut.