How to Sew Printed Faux Leather for Bag Panels

Quick answer

Sew printed faux leather for bag panels using a microtex needle, a longer stitch length, and a walking foot to prevent puckering. Test your settings on scraps first.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sewing Printed Faux Leather Bag Panels

1. Choose the right needle and thread: Use a size 80/12 or 90/14 microtex (sharp) needle to pierce the PVC cleanly without leaving large holes. Pair with a polyester or nylon thread for strength and some stretch. A universal needle can cause skipped stitches; always test on a scrap.
2. Set a longer stitch length: Select a stitch length of 3.5–4 mm (about 8–10 stitches per inch). Shorter stitches create a perforated line that can tear under stress. Avoid backstitching at the start; use a thread tail or a drop of glue to secure the seam.
3. Use a walking foot or Teflon foot: A walking foot feeds the faux leather evenly from both sides, preventing the layers from shifting. A Teflon foot glides over the sticky PVC surface without sticking. If you don't have a walking foot, place tissue paper between the fabric and presser foot, then tear it away after sewing.
4. Press seams gently from the wrong side: Use a low heat setting (synthetic or low) and a pressing cloth. Press from the fleece backing side only. Never touch the printed surface with a hot iron. Use a clapper or a seam roller to set the seam flat without heat if you're unsure about the iron temperature.
5. Clip curves and grade seam allowances: For curved bag panels, clip notches into the seam allowance (do not cut through the stitching). Grade bulky seams by trimming one allowance shorter to reduce bulk. Test clipping on a scrap piece first—faux leather does not fray, so clipping is safe.

Product Facts

• Storytime Cats - Printed Pebble: Made from PVC with a fleece backing, ~1mm thick, moisture-resistant and easy to clean. The fleece backing reduces slipping while sewing, and the PVC surface wipes clean, ideal for bag panels that see daily use.