Sewing with Cork Fabric
Have you ever tried sewing cork fabric? Cork fabric is gaining in popularity. Cork is a very interesting material. Cork oak trees are harvested every nine years, once they reach maturity. It doesn’t harm the tree, and the cork bark regrows. Most cork forests are in Portugal and Spain. The year of harvest is marked on the trunk, so each tree isn’t harvested at the wrong time. Portugal is the world’s top producer of cork and has the largest cork forest in the world. Cork products account for 2.3 percent of the total Portuguese exports. Approximately 17,000 people are employed in the country’s cork manufacturing industries, which process around 70 percent of the world’s cork. Cork is a sustainable and vegan alternative to sewing with leather. There are so many great reasons to use cork fabric in your sewing projects! There are several places to buy cork now. You can get some at your local shop or online. For this project, I used cork from Sew Sweetness. Sara has a great cork selection! If you plan to purchase in bulk, I can also recommend you check out the cork selection at Sew Da Kine. Both online shops have excellent quality cork fabrics! Let me show you how I make strap extenders while sewing cork fabric on my Industrial Sewing Machine! I tried the Ansel Camera Bag pattern by Sew Sweetness. Let me tell you about it!
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Ansel Camera Bag Supply List
A special note: I changed several things on my version of the Ansel Camera Bag. I used Cork Fabric for both exterior side panels and also the bottom exterior panel. I made cork straps with fabric accents and also used some fabric selvage for the back hinge piece. The following supply list is changed to reflect how I made my version of the Ansel Camera Bag. I mostly used my Juki DU1181n Industrial Sewing Machine. I also used Bonded Nylon Thread #69 by Superior Thread and size 17 needle.
- Ansel Camera Bag Pattern
- Ansel Camera Bag Video (this is not a beginner bag – better get the video tutorial!)
- 3/4 yard of Exterior Fabric. I used Tula Pink All Stars Bees in Marigold
- (1) large piece of cork fabric. I used this one from Sara’s shop
- 1 yard of Lining Fabric (I used Tula Pink Pom Pom Marigold)
- 3/4 yard of Solid Fabric (for straps/binding) – please use quilting cotton (I used Cork Fabric and Tula Pink All Stars Tent Stripe Marigold)
- 1/2 yard of cheap fabric (I used muslin)
- 1/2 yard of By Annie’s Soft and Stable
- 2 yards of 20” wide Pellon SF-101 Shape Flex fusible woven interfacing
- 1/6 yard of Pellon Peltex #71 fusible one-sided Interfacing
- (2) Plastic side-release/parachute buckle (they should be able to accommodate 1” wide strap – mine were 2-3/4” tall)
- Two 1-1/2” metal rectangles – available from Amazon (I used the metal slider and just took out the slider – that’s how I roll!)
- One 1-1/2” metal slider – available from Amazon
- 1/2 yard of 1/2” foam (or green craft foam – the foam I used is 24” wide)
- Hook and loop closure (Velcro), 3/4” wide – 1-1/2 yards
Basic Sewing Supplies Needed
- Sewing Machine
- I use my Industrial Sewing Machine (I have a Juki DU1181n)
- Bonded Nylon #69 Thread – This is the thread I use for my Industrial Sewing Machine.
- For Domestic Sewing Machines, I would recommend a 40 wt thread – like this thread
- Teflon Sewing foot or walking foot
- My Industrial Sewing Machine has this covered – but if you are using your domestic machine – you will find sewing with cork easier if using these feet.
- Rotary Cutter with sharp blade (I use this brand – 45mm)
- Acrylic Ruler (I like this brand)
- Rotary Cutting Mat (I recommend this rotating mat – it’s amazing!)
- Clover Wonder Clips
- Iron & Ironing Board (this one is on my wish list) ps – DO NOT IRON Cork fabric. It will likely ruin the fabric.
- I like to use a seam roller on cork fabric. I used this seam roller in my video
- Marking tool – I use this Clover Chaco Marker
Although the pattern does not call for this, I also added purse feet to the bottom of the bag. I did a few other “special things to my bag – let me show you!
If you decide to make an Ansel Camera Bag yourself, I would highly recommend getting Sara’s video Sara’s video as well. It’s TOTALLY worth it! I found myself to be more confident to make this bag after I watched Sara sew the entire project. She shows you everything you need to know – step by step!
Sewing with cork fabric straps
As I mentioned, I made some alterations to Sara’s original pattern when I made all my straps from cork fabric with cotton accents. Here are the fabric measurements for that.
Cut the following from Cork Fabric:
- (1) Strap 66″ x 3″
- (2) Strap Extenders 3″ x 15.5″
- (2) Buckle top 2″ x 7.5″
- (2) Buckle bottom 2″ x 7.25″
Cut the following from your accent cotton:
- (1) Strap 66″ x 2.75″
- (2) Strap Extenders 2.75″ x 15.5″
- (2) Buckle top 1.75′ x 7.5″
- (2) Buckle bottom 1.75″ x 7.25″
Cork straps with cotton accents assembly
Follow the pattern instructions, but make some slight changes in the strap constructions. I made this YouTube video to help explain the changes. I hope you find it helpful.
This is the sixth post in a series I have planned. Be sure to subscribe to my Newsletter so you can be the first to know when the next installment is released!
- Industrial Sewing Machine – Intro to my Juki DU-1181N
- Industrial Sewing Machine Maintenance
- Industrial Sewing Machine Tools, Supplies and Notions
- Industrial Sewing Machine Sewing with Cotton
- Industrial Sewing Machine Sewing with Vinyl
- Industrial Sewing Machine Sewing with Cork
Sara Lawson, with Sew Sweetness, generously donated a $35.00 gift certificate to her online shop. Thanks Sara! This contest has ended and I loved to see everyone’s comments about sewing with cork fabric! The winner has been notified! Thanks to everyone who participated!
Be sure to check out my most popular posts below!
Happy Sewing!
I made a zipper pouch with some cork on the bottom exterior. It was a lot easier than I thought it would be.
I just started a small pouch with cork fabric. It’s fun to work with.
I have not tried to sew with cork yet, but I am intrigued! I would maybe try something small to start…
Wow! what a great looking bag! I want to know more about how you put in the rivets!
I love Sew Sweetness patterns. they are so easy to follow. I bought the minikins bundle and just love them! I need to try making something with cork. I have a walking foot!
I have not used cork yet but i can’t wait to try it!
First time to your blog. It is filled with great information and advice on sewing, one of the lost arts for sure. I love to sew and love to see and read about others who do too. Thanks for your efforts!!
I love this post. I used cork on the noodlehead rainbow clutch. It was pretty easy to sew. Thanks for the awesome giveaway.
Can’t believe how amazing this material looks!!! And how fast you make your stuff!
I would love to try cork!
That cork is pretty cool.
I love the feel of cork. Can’t wait til my favorite is back in stock! Thxs so much for giveaway oppty.
Your camera bag is so amazing!!
I’m a huge fan of your works,(u know it,I keep bugging u with my msgs on Instagram )and ur just a msg away! I love everything you make
This is the bag which I’m planning to make in June and I’m so happy to See it live on your post! Now I’m doubly excited for the same!! Thank you for this lovely give away!!
I have never used cork till now,since it’s not easily available in India but I really wish to use it and feel how it feels sewing cork!
Thank you Sara!
You are most generous person I’ve met!! Thank you so much for this huge giveaway!
Sew excited!
I keep meaning to try it but I feel like once I do I’ll be sucked in and want ALL THE CORK!
I love how beautiful cork looks, but have yet to explore it. I also came here for the contest.
Great bag and amazing material/colour combo!!
I haven’t sewn with cork yet. I would like to make something for my sister that is a vegan. It will probably be some kind of pouch.
Although, I have a few pieces of cork fabric, I have not had the chance to start any projects yet using cork. I also am a bit hesitant and continue to follow discussions/ blogs on the use of this fabric and I am also curious about sewing it on an industrial machine versus a regular sewing machine. Looking for Pros and Cons of using each type of machine to sew cork.
I have not sewn with cork yet, but I’m planning to! I loved all the extras that you added to the Ansel Camera bag. I will be returning to this post again and again for inspiration.
I’m made several purses and pouches with cork, love it.
Nicole, great info and great presentation. Your videos are wonderful
Your blog about using cork for the camera bag inspires me to try cork. What a beautiful bag and I love your modifications.
I have cork from Sara’s shop….now to dig in to using it. Glad for the info on making my own straps
I bought a small piece of cork to try out at the last quilt show I went to…it is looking at me saying give it a try!!! Thanks for the info!
Love the colors on your bag – great fabric choice with the cork!!!
I love your blog! You are a wealth of information! I would love to make something out of cork, just got to do it! I currently sew with oilcloth.
I have seen photos on Instagram of things using the cork and they all look so cool. If I tried it, I would use it first on something easy, such as a zippered bag. It looks like it would be fun to try.
I first saw Jessica from SewDaKine using cork and immediately ordered it from her. It is so easy to sew, however, sometimes, I employ a few techniques to make it easier to sew. I sew on a pfaff, so I probably would not have these problems/solutions on an industrial machine. It depends on the particular cork and sometimes the pattern: I find it useful to utilize my teflon foot so my cork feeds evenly for even stitching. Other times, I use my regular foot. Double sided tape (DST) and wonder clips help hold folded edges/seam allowances straight. Also, lengthening your stitch length helps as well. I usually use a size 14 needle -microtex or universal.
Thanks for the giveaway!
I love the selvage used on the hinge!! Awesome addition to an already amazing bag.
I haven’t seen with cork yet, but I’d like to make a wallet! Thank you for your blog and this opportunity! ?
I have made a passport cover and a purse with cork accents.
I love your blog! You are a wealth of information! I would love to make something out of cork, just got to do it! I currently sew with oilcloth.
I’ve made several things with cork from Sara at SewSweetness. LOVE cork!!!
I’ve made an eye glass case, a luggage tag and purse tabs with cork. Getting ready to tackle a purse with cork.
I have used cork for the Roxy, Miss Maggie and the EDT. Love working with cork. Needle goes through it like butter. Folds nicely, making projects easier.
I know nothing about sewing cork fabric whether you use a lining or stabilizer? It would be great to see a video of a bag being made start to finish using cork and vinyl.
I can’t wait to get started…..just need the cork ??. Thank you so very much for being so detailed in your blogs, it really helps to understand why and how you do the things you do, which in turn helps me do things the right way the first time…..instead of ripping, ick. Lots of beautiful projects. I want to be able to do that ?
I haven’t sewn with cork fabric yet but I would love too. I have Sara’s Train Case patterns and cork would look really neat on those. Have a great day!
I’ve made a Powte purse from XOXO Lauren it was so much easier sewing with cork then vinyl. I love using it. Just wish it wasn’t so expensive. Beautiful camera bag! I love purple!
Oh my…My two favorite makers collaborating! I found Sara on YouTube about a month ago and am obsessed with her videos. And I have been following you through email newsletters, and Instagram forever. (I love your Instagram stories btw)
I am so intrigued by cork and really want to make Sarah’s Tudor Bag for a trip I have coming up in September. It’s so versatile and I think cork would be a beautiful feature on the straps and the bottom.
Your camera case is beautiful!! Everything I’ve seen you make looks so nicely made. Awesome job!!
I love your camera bag! It looks fantastic! I have not sewn with cork yet, but am dying to. The first thing I want to try making is Sara’s dicotech clutch. It would be divine in her rainbow cork. I’m saving up to buy me some. I also love the wine colored cork, like you used in your camera bag. Such a gorgeous color.
Sewing with cork fabric is intriguing. I’d probably start with a zipper bag for make up or pencil bag. Your creations are lovely! I look forward to your daily Instastories. ?
I have never used cork when sewing! I would love to try it out bc I love trying new techniques for projects! Love this blog
I see most of my bags with cork fabric. I love the feel and ease of sewing with it. I was first introduced to it buy purchasing through Sew Sweetnesson Etsy and have been hooked ever since. Thank you for all your great instructions and time sharing your work.
The bag is awesome! I haven’t even heard of sewing with cork fabric until I read your blog. I will have to try it sometime. It looks cool on your bag.
Sewing with cork is on my bucket list for this year
Love the Tula Pink fabric. You’re bag looks great!
I haven’t sewed with cork but hope to try soon.
The corners are so smooth, I have not had that quality with the other cork I have used from my local shop. I look forward to trying some of the cork that Sara stocks.
I have not sewn with vork uet but have acquired a bit of a pile of it in my stash. My first project will certainly be a purse!
I sew with cork all the time, like it a lot better than vinyl, usually as accents but more recently the whole bag in cork.
I Love sewing bags & pouches with cork! Thank you for this demo. I’m going to use it for the strap on my Aeroplane bag.
I have sewn with cork in bag making, it’s a very cool fabric, but it cracked when I folded it into the handles, what am doing wrong, is this normal for cork or is my cork faulty ?
Since Cork has become increasingly popular, you can find it for sale in more places. It’s important to know that not all cork is good quality. The same could be said for any type of material. It is common for cork to crack or peel near the selvage edge. If you have cork that is cracking or peeling in other places, I would recommend contacting the company that sold it to you. I have not had that personally happen to me, but I have only sewn with cork that was sourced from the 2 companies I’ve referenced in my blog post. I hope this helps and please let me know if you have more questions.
I have never sewn with cork. I’m a new sew-er. I’d love to be entered into this giveaway. Thank you for sharing how to sew with cork. This is a gorgeous bag and love the fabric.
I have made a purse with cork as part of the bag. I have plans for a couple other projects too.
Amazing!!
I have made 3 bags and 2 wallets with cork fabric. I love the way it sees! Now that I have my new Juki TL2010Q, I like it even more!!
I wlove your camera bag and would love to try making it with cork.
Love your camera bag and would like to try making it with cork.
I haven’t sewn on cork yet. I just purchased some. Not brave enough to cut into it yet. I keep seeing such beautiful things made from it.
I have sewn a few items with cork. I love Sara’s cork. If loce to try some rainbow cork for my next project.
I haven’t seen with cork. I would like to make a bag using cork.
I haven’t tried cork yet. But I am ready to jump in and will do a cross body bag first.
I’ve been wanting to give cork fabric a try. Thank you for all the great tips! Your camera bag is gorgeous!
I have recently purchased some cork but have not seen with yet, excited to try it out!
I love sewing bags with cork!
I’ve made mostly The Triple Zip crossbody bags, pattern by Sew Da Kine, with my cork. I’m also in the process of sewing a wallet, The Penny Inn by ChrisWDesigns, with a cork accent. I have SO much planned for all the beautiful cork I have on hand. Now all I need is time and focus, lol. 😉
Working with cork is not only easy, but I LOVE the colors and style it adds to bags. It really steps things up several notches. It’s wonderful and a must try for every interested seamstress/sewist.
I loved reading about cork and where it’s harvested and the many ways it can be used! Thanks for sharing with us! I have never sewn with cork, but I am particularly intrigued and would love to learn!
Can’t wait to try cork my fab little store ha sit on order can’t wait for it to arrive
Your blog is fabulous! So helpful. I’m a frequent customer of SewDaKine and have made several Triple Zips using her cork. I’ve also tried some of the upholstery grade cork and found it does not wear as well as what Jessica Cruzan offers. It’s okay, much cheaper, but definitely want to use for accents only. Not good for corners or places that get lots of wear. Thanks for sharing information on industrial machines.
I would love to use cork on a purse for myself. You used an industrial machine, but I’m going to assume that you can use a regular sewing machine too.
I LOVE sewing work cork! I use it as an accent on bags and wallets. I have that camera bag pattern and that might just be my next project. Yours turned out beautifully!
Do you use a special needle for sewing cork?
I mostly used my Juki DU1181n Industrial Sewing Machine. I also used Bonded Nylon Thread #69 by Superior Thread and size 17 needle. If you are using a domestic sewing machine, you can simply use a jeans needle.
Beautiful bag. I have never tried cork for sewing. ☺??
Love your cork post! Lots of good info! Your color combos are fantastic and the selvage hinge is a neat touch!! ?
I love sewing with cork and Sara’s patterns are great!
You are amazing.Thank you for the chance to win. And no I haven’t seen with cork yet. I want to after seeing all your beautiful bags.
Amy
Would love to try sewing with cork- havnt attempted yet. The fabric lining with the cork strap to me looks very finished and polished- ? love it.
I just sewed my first back with cork!! It is like butter sewing!!! I’d like to use it more. Looks so pretty! Thank you for all the great info!
I have never heard of cork fabric. Wow! I would love to try it like you did as an accent on a cute bag.
I have been wanting to try cork for years!! I make bags of all sorts and cork, as you’ve shown here, is a beautiful part of bag design! I win this, I will bring incorporating some!!
I just recently learned that cork fabric existed! I have not made anything yet. I hope to try it out soon on a tote bag!
I’m new to your blog. This is just awesome. So pretty!
I have not tried sewing with cork but want to. Love your bag!!
I just bought cork to try one of Sara Lawson’s aeroplane bags. Thank you for all the great tips. So many pretty colors, so little time!!
I have not ever sewn with cork fabric but would definitely like to give it a try. I would use it for the bottom of a purse.
Love the color combo of the bag, especially the plum cork. Going to have to give it a try.
What a gorgeous bag! I have been wanting to make one myself, and I just might have the courage to do it after reading your post! Thank you so much for all the tips!
Cork with fabric backing irons and sews easily. I did wool applique on cork and lined a snap frame purse. Love it!
I haven’t seen with Cork fabric yet but would like to make a purse!
Gorgeous bag! I’d love to try sewing with cork x
I have never sewed with cork but would love to try. I would like to make a bag something like the camera bag you showed. Thanks for the chance to win.
What brand of fusible tape do you use?
For this project I used Wonder Tape. You can purchase this from Amazon through my affiliate link: https://amzn.to/2rUUHpW