When looking for hats, trench coats, shoes, tote bags, windbreakers, and other outerwear that you can wear in all weather conditions, you would like them to be made of a material that prevents you from being soaked in the rain and preserve your looks. You want them in a particular type of fabric – a fabric that will not allow water to penetrate and reach you. You are looking for waterproof or water-resistant, or water repellent fabrics.
Waterproof fabrics are fabrics that are resistant to water and wetness intrinsically or have been processed to be so. They may need to meet regulatory specifications when sold with the label “waterproof.”
Waterproof Vs Water repllent Vs Water resistant
Waterproof fabrics do not allow water to penetrate them at all. Water repellent materials repel water – water may just roll off them, but they are not as effective as waterproof. Water-resistant fabrics, though they may resist water, are the least effective of these three.
Uses of Waterproof materials
Waterproof fabrics and Water resistant fabrics are not your regular sewing fabrics. But for their purpose, there is no substitute.
If you are in the mind for making cloth nappies and diaper wraps, raincoats, changing pads, outdoor furniture covers, shower curtains, is there a choice but to look for material that would not let water go through it.
Other uses for these fabrics include making mattress/pillow protectors, kites, cloth sanitary pads, outdoor bunting, lunch bags, snack pouches, tote bags, tablecloths, picnic cloth, baby bibs, changing baby bags, windbreaker jackets, ponchos etc.
Related posts : Names of sewing fabrics; Durable fabric names; Fabrics that protect from Sun ; Fabrics for making bags; Thick material names ; Thin and lightweight materials ; Material for sewing shirts; Fabrics with stretch.
Water Proof/ Water resistant materials
1.PUL & TPU
PUL stands for Polyurethane Laminate.
PUL is a polyester fabric with a plastic backing coated with a thin waterproof /water resistant coating. The best thing about PUL fabrics is that it is completely waterproof, very durable, breathable with a slight cross grain stretch and you can easily wear it next to the skin, because the fabric side is soft, flexible and comfortable.
You get PUL fabric in thicknesses of 1 millimeter and 2 millimeters of the plastic coating. The fabric can be knit or woven, 100% cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton.
Polyester PUL is thinner and softer than the cotton PUL. The best thing about the PUL fabric is that you can wash it any number of times without damage.
TPU
TPU stands for Thermoplastic polyurethane; it is a better alternative to PUL fabric and used interchangeably with PUL in making waterproof products like cloth diapers – more softer, flexible and environmentally friendlier (questionably) than PUL. And the functions are the same. The disadvantage is that it may be less durable than PUL.
Read this post for More on the differences between PUL & TPU.
2. Waxed cotton
Waxed canvas is a densely woven cotton fabric (Canvas) coated with paraffin-based wax; it has a rugged weathered attractive appearance due to the creases and folds of wax on its surface. Canvas itself maybe water resistant to a degree depending on its weave density but the coating on it adds water proofness. It is many times more expensive than ordinary canvas.
3. Nylon and Polyester
These materials are not really waterproof on their own. They can be said to be water resistant because of their tight weave.
But with a special coating, these fabrics are used for making the most waterproof of all things – rain umbrellas. A layer of polyurethane is used to cover the interior of the fabric.These fabrics are less breathable than laminated fabric and not as strong.
Ripstop nylon fabric
This is a sturdy lightweight wind-resistant fabric made of nylon fibres – after it is given a waterproof coating it is unstoppable as a rough and tough fabric. In WWII it was used to make parachutes! Today with waterproof, water resistant, tear-free qualities it is used for making tents, garden furniture coverings, waterproof clothing, backpacks, kites, and workwear. You can make jackets, ponchos etc with ripstop nylon.
The fabric has a grid design in its weave. More on Nylon here.
Ripstop polyester is a similar tough fabric used in a similar way made of polyester fibers. It is made into outdoor blankets.
Nylon taffeta
Nylon taffeta with a special coating is definitely waterproof – This is the material used frequently to make rain umbrellas, patio umbrellas etc. It has a smooth weave and a sheen on its surface
Umbrella fabric is a lightweight, tightly woven water repellent nylon fabric. You can get a variety of dyed and printed umbrella fabrics.
PVC coated Polyester
PVC-coated polyester is a waterproof 100% polyester fabric with poly-vinyl chloride coating on the back. It is slightly stiff but has a smooth finish on the inside.
Terylene is a densely woven polyester fabric used to make sails , sunshades, canopies, awnings etc because of its water proof quality.
Polyester microfiber fabric with a special waterproof coating is available – this is 100% waterproof. It has a supple suede finish on the outside and is used for making garments like jackets.
4. Laminated cotton /poplin
Laminated fabrics are an alternative to PUL material as it is of the same concept. A thin waterproof coating is given to fabric. It is not as effective as PUL, though. But it is more environment friendly as the fabric side is a natural fabric.
Laminated fabric is used to make weather protective clothing like raincoats, windcheaters, ski wear, protective jackets, hats; this fabric keeps the wearer dry and comfortable under all weather conditions.
Lamination is added by bonding the water-resistant layer to the back of the fabric. The drape of the fabric becomes less flexible when adding the lamination. This gives a structure and a crisp hand to the thin cloth.
Laminated cotton is a wonderful fabric suitable for making many things because it is breathable and flexible. It has a laminate layer of about 1-millimeter thickness on the fabric.
Laminated poplin is a favourite of many international brands to make protective clothing including jackets. There are mainly 3 types of laminates – Non-porous laminate , micro porous laminate, viscous coating.
5. Oilcloth
Oilcloth, also known as enameled cloth or American cloth, is a close-woven cotton duck or linen cloth with a coating of boiled linseed oil to make it waterproof. (Wikipedia). This is the earlier version of the oilcloth. Nowadays Modern oilcloth refers to a cotton or linen material coated with a clear vinyl layer on top. The clear finish can be shiny or matt.
This hard wearing, durable and easy to clean (just wipe to clean) material is great for making tablecloths, coverings, luggage, tote bags, kitchen accessories etc., but not so much for making garments.
Check out this post if you would like to make an attempt at making oilcloth.
6. Polyester fleece
Fleece can be water resistant depending on its quality (not waterproof). Denser the fleece the more it is water repellant.
Because of its water repellent quality, it is frequently used to make cloth diaper outer layers. With a specially applied water-repellent coating, you can make fleece more water resistant than it is originally.
7. Wool
Wool is naturally water resistant (not waterproof) and it is a natural fabric which is its USP; if coated with lanolin you can increase its water resistance. You may have to do this periodically. You can also buy boiled wool which is also very water resistant – this wool is boiled in hot water and made denser so that the waterproof quality is increased. Wool felt is used to make hats which can stand some amount of rain exposure.
8. Vinyl, pleather and plastic
These artificial materials are waterproof and are usually used in sewing to make cosmetic bags, tote bags, beach bags, placemats etc. If you are making marine upholstery and stuff needed on boats, you will need to buy 100% waterproof marine vinyl fabric like expanded Vinyl (Polyvinyl chloride) with fabric backing or Vinyl and Polyester Composite fabric.
Naugahyde is an American brand name for a vinyl material designed to resemble leather, made from fabric coated with rubber or vinyl resin. It is an upholstery material that is tough, durable, supple, flexible and waterproof.
9. PEVA
PEVA is acronym for polyethylene vinyl acetate. This PVC-free, non-chlorinated waterproof material is considered as a toxic free alternative for PVC. It is used to make waterproof shower curtain liners.
10. Densely woven branded fabrics
Fabrics made of cotton or synthetic micro denier filament yarns with compacted weave structure are trusted to be water repellent and even water proof because they are made with this purpose – with very little pores between them so that the water will not pass through them. They may also be given a Durable waterproof repellent (DWR) coating to make them waterproof.
Check out more details of a specialized fabric Ventile here which is a branded cotton fabric with water resisting properties. The densely woven cotton textile gives reasonable protection against typical rain, as claimed by the manufacturers.
Best known branded Synthetic water proof fabrics
Gore-tex®
Gore-tex fabric is said to be the most waterproof windproof fabric available. The best thing is that it is breathable as well. You can read more about the fabric here.
eVENT® Fabric
This is a very popular water proof fabric – it has a Direct Venting waterproof barrier which is an advancement of the ePTFE (expanded Polytetrafluoroethylen) technology which will be “keeping you dry and comfortable in the widest range of temperatures and conditions” www.eventfabrics.com
Nanotex Aquapel™
The fabric is water repellent breathable, durable and fast drying.www.nanotex.com
100% Waterproof Cordura® Nylon
Cordura is a Nylon which is waterproof. You may need to choose a 1000 denier Cordura nylon for this – and for abrasion resistance, strength etc the fabric is unbeatable.
Darlexx ®
Medical and Surgical Fabric from Shawmut Corporation -This stretchable fabric is a mix of 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex and is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Darlexx fabric (Darlexx Thermalastic®) with a Lycra face, grey microfleece backing is also waterproof.
Taslan ®
Water repellent fabric. A Nylon fabric with a matte surface has a durable water-resistant finish to repel moisture.
Neoprene
This synthetic rubber is waterproof – it is the material used to make wet suits.
Naugahyde
It is a 100 percent expanded vinyl on the outside with a jersey knit backing. This is a favorite for making outdoor upholstery as it looks like leather.
Sunbrella (water resistant not waterproof)
Sunbrella fabric is one of the most popular outdoor fabrics – it is fade resistant, mildew resistant and water resistant – but not waterproof.
Coated Oxford Fabric (Nylon or Polyester)
This is a Urethane Coated Nylon or Polyester fabric. Frequently used for making tents, bags, flags, banners, outer fabric as well as lining of bags etc
Textilene
This branded fabric is resistant to all elements including sun and water and even fire. It is a synthetic sunshade fabric made of PVC coated polyester fibers. The malleable fabric is used to make umbrellas, outdoor cushions etc.
Waterproof ratings when buying waterproof fabrics
You will find ratings on water proof fabrics/ garments starting from 500 mm to 20000 mm and it shows the fabrics comparative waterproof quality. Real water proof ability starts from 5000 mm. For withholding heavy rain you need to get a rating of 10000 mm and above.
Make your own waterproof material
This article in wikihow tells you how to make your own waterproof material by spraying a waterproof sealer on the fabric surface. Usually hardwearing twill weave fabrics like Cotton suede, Wool Covert are used for this.
More reading material on waterproofing and water repellent fabrics : Durable water repellent finish – Wikipedia.
Terms to know
Water Proof fabrics – Fabrics that do not allow any water to penetrate through them. This is the ultimate among all the categories. The finish closes all pores on the fabric and the fabric is completely immune to water.
Water repellent fabrics – Fabrics with a special fabric finish on the surface or special tight weave or one with special sprays applied that cause the water to roll off the surface. When the finish is gone the water repellency is also gone.
Water resistant fabrics -Fabrics treated so that it resist water to an extent. A chemical coating is applied on the surface. If you are standing in the rain for some time under some of these fabrics eventually water will get through.
Water repellent finish – A special finish added to the fabric surface to make it repell water – the finish prevents penetration of water droplets to the inside. The advantage is that if applied moderately it does block the pores of the fabric and render it not-breathable.
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Hello! I am interested in designing windbreaker for kids.
Any recommendations of fabric used for kids’ windbreaker(Better light weight, waterproof and water resistant )? Any source?
Thank you!
Nylon is a popular fabric used by all manufacturers – it is lightweight, and sturdy and water resistant (not water proof). Riptocp nylon is very durable. Gore tex is a laminated synthetic fabric which is breathable and waterproof- very popular as a windbreaker material. Laminated cotton is a coated fabric which can also be used. it is treated to be waterproof- it is more comfortable but costlier
The true answer
The authoritative message 🙂
Such an informative and clear article. Thank you! Do you have any recommendations as to where to source these types of fabrics from?
Hello, I am looking for a fabric to make a water resistant pillow case to cover my cat’s bedding. I’m not sure what to look for. What would you recommend?
Thank you,
Patti
You can make waterresistant pillows for dogs with sunbrella fabric.
I want to make a lightweight kilt or a wraparound skirt for hiking in the rain. What is the best waterproof material for this purpose?
Nylon
Hiking in the rain – sounds like fun, and adventorous. You want something breathable as well as waterproof. I have seen Polyurethane Coated Polyester Ripstop material for pants and skirts. This is not very thick like others but rain proof enough and tough.
this is tarbol
So well done summary! You’re awesome, to the point, each word carries weight!
Hello,
This is probably a first, but I want to make a waterproof, windproof, and practical yet stylish hooded cloak to be worn at sporting events, maybe camping, and any other use that I can find for it. What fabric do you recommend? I’d like to do an outer lining of some kind of waterproof and windproof material with an inner lining of something warm and comfortable if possible.
You can search for Vinyl Clothing Fabric. It has a shiny side ouside and a soft side inside. Or PVC LEATHER. Lining can be sweatshirt fleece which is quite soft and comfy – if polyester is more in the blend, it can be dense but I do not know it is completely water proof. Ripstop nylon can be used as a waterproof lining as it is a tightly woven fabric but not so comfortable.
Marvelous article! thank you.
My favorite LeSportSac purse is no longer made and, I have an idea of making it with detachable back pack straps…
I had no idea I would have so much trouble matching the fabric, lining and the soft woven straps. No fabric store locally has any knowledge of the fabrics used and, found so many of the sources I contacted online, also have no idea what the materials used were… or anything close. Recently purchased the “trailblazer” pattern and have decided, to proceed with some kind of light weight cordura and a few alterations including making it a shoulder bag and adding the many outside pockets of LSS and the side pockets that, a little deeper, hold a water or soda bottle….
Reading your article I feel more confident about choosing the fabrics… I like a soft purse, and all the work this is going to be, I hope to make one that will last for years.
Thank you!
I would like to make a windshield cover that is waterproof and tough for snow and Ice. I would like to make my own, I don’t care for what is out there.
You can use a High-denier polyester or nylon with a waterproof coating like the 100% polyester canvas – this material should have a plastic PVC backing with a waterproof coating. Consider adding a layer of insulation, such as a thin quilt batting or foam, between two layers of your outer material for added protection against freezing temperatures.
Hi,
I’m looking for a fabric to protect a leather saddle whilst riding in the rain. Thin fabric, non slip doesn’t need to be 100% waterproof as the ride in the rain will be no longer than 1 hr just looking for some protection.
I’m planning to make a saddle cover.
Thank you
I can give suggestions out of common sense not experience – Merino wool, fleece etc like this one www. equus .co.uk /products/supreme-products-ride-on-dotty-fleece-saddle-cover
Water-Resistant Polyester Microfiber with a water-repellent finish with elastic straps to fit around the saddle
These are nice kinds thanks for the info
Hello
I want to make some water proof covers/breathable for my garden patio set, large L shaped sofa & table. The obvious materials is canvas, which is working out to be expensive, I have purchased 2 sets from where I purchased the garden furniture from, but they do not last long, ang suggestions please.
Thank you
Hi,
I’m looking for material to make pad to bed, used to kids and adults incontinence. This material I think comes from China, but I can’t find the right name to search on internet.
I want to make a lap protector for when I am eating and drinking coffee. I was thinking of a 2 layer protector. One layer of a washable absorbent material and the other layer of a washable fabric that would be liquid resistant esp if I was drinking a hot beverage. What would you suggest for both layers. Thanks, Marian
OIl cloth and fleece?
Hi,
I was wondering what waterproof fabric you would recommend in making a toddler/baby’s bathing suit?? My goal is to not having to lug around a wet swimsuit each time my children go swimming. Let me know your thoughts…
Thanks,
Heather
You can use Neoprene or Microfiber blends – they are not completely waterproof, but are water resistant and not get soggy
Can I waterproof 3 meters of 100% cotton at home?
https://www.wikihow.life/Waterproof-Fabric also at the bottom of the page it shows questions and refers to thin cotton fabric
So, after all is said and done, can this be used for re-usable lunch bags???
I do not think any of the coated fabrics are food safe – they are all related to plastic in some form. You can line these waterproof material with cotton (washed and clean of all toxins) to use with food. But if you mean to keep lunch boxes inside, oilcloth is perfect.
Your site is so informative. Thank you. I am looking to make a waterproof cover for my fire pit that will drop about 8” from the top edge. My question: I think oilcloth would be easiest to keep clean (I have a lot of hummingbirds and they poop all over it) but, do you think my old reliable 60 yr old Pfaff up to the task of sewing it? I read about the glossy side v wrong side (good info) but does this machine have the Ooomph to go through the oil cloth?
I would like to make a dress or maybe a skirt suitable for hiking in. I need it to be of a similar fabric to walking trousers, so quick drying and water resistant. It would be great if it was wicking too, and wind proof but I know I may be asking too much! What would you recommend? Thanks.
Hi
If you look at hiking pants in shops they are all made of ripstop nylon/polyester – the kind which doesnot tear, is water repellent, dries quickly, doesnot keep moisture on your body.Best wishes
Hi, what type of fabric would you recommend to make an indoor play mat for watery/messy baby and toddler activities?
Hi Jessica
Have you thought about using a Laminated Terry Fabric for this. The kind which is seen on mattress protectors – one side is cotton terry and the other side is laminated.
What kind of fabric is most suitable for making bean bag at home?