Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Bag Project: A Guide to Materials and Function

Choosing the right fabric for your bag is just as important as choosing the pattern. Fabric affects how your bag looks, how it wears over time, and how well it functions in real life. The right fabric choice can elevate a project, while the wrong one can lead to frustration or a bag that never gets used.

Below are some of the most common bag-making fabrics, along with guidance on when to use each one so you can choose confidently for your next project.

Fabric Option #1: Faux Leather or Vegan Leather

Faux leather is one of the most popular choices for bag making because it offers a polished, professional look without the cost or maintenance of genuine leather. It’s available in a wide range of textures, colors, and finishes.

Best Uses: Crossbody bags, clutches, structured handbags, and statement exteriors.

Pros: Wipeable, durable, and visually elevated.

Cons: Thicker layers can be challenging. Avoid pinning to prevent permanent holes and use clips instead. Lengthening your stitch can also help.

Fabric Option #2: Waterproof Canvas

Waterproof canvas combines the durability of traditional canvas with a water-resistant finish, making it a reliable choice for structured, everyday bags.

Best Uses: Totes, backpacks, beach bags, and utility-style bags that need structure and durability.

Pros: Durable, mostly domestic-machine friendly, water-resistant, and holds shape well.

Cons: Slightly heavier and stiffer than standard canvas, which may require a heavier needle and slower sewing.

Fabric Option #3: LinerTex™ (Bonded Nylon and Polyester)

LinerTex™ is a purpose-built bag lining material designed to add durability, structure, and a clean, professional finish to handmade bags. It’s available in both printed bonded nylon and solid polyester options.

Best Uses: Bag linings, interior pockets, organizers, and structured interiors.

Pros: Durable, easy to sew, saves money and time as no need to interfacing, and adds structure without excess bulk.

Fabric Option #4: Ripstop

Ripstop fabrics are lightweight but strong, often used in performance or travel-focused bags.

Best Uses: Wallets, backpacks, gym bags, travel bags, hiking backpacks.

Pros: Lightweight, tear-resistant, water-resistant, and thin enough to reduce bulk, making it an excellent choice for wallet linings and credit card slot construction.

Fabric Option #5: Quilting Cotton

Quilting cotton is lightweight, easy to sew, and widely available in countless prints. While it isn’t ideal on its own for heavy-use bags, it works well with proper support.

Best Uses: Pouches, cosmetic bags, interiors, and lightly structured totes.

Pros: Easy to sew, affordable, and beginner-friendly.

Cons: Requires interfacing to remove one-way stretch and may wear faster than heavier fabrics.

Tips for Choosing the Right Fabric

• Consider the bag’s purpose. Structured bags benefit from heavier fabrics, while lightweight bags prioritize flexibility.
• Plan for interfacing and linings. Some fabrics need added support, while materials like LinerTex™ provide structure on their own.
• Think about wear and use. Everyday bags need durability. Statement bags can prioritize appearance.

Final Thoughts

The right fabric choice can transform your bag from a simple project into a finished piece you’re proud to use or gift. Consider how the bag will be used, how much structure it needs, and the look you want to achieve. A little planning upfront leads to better results and longer-lasting bags.