One of the most significant innovations in fabric technology in recent years is the advent of "Microfibers".  When microfibers are used for home decor, the term "microfiber" is often used interchangeably with "microsuede" but there are some differences.

in-weave's eBay store offers a wide variety of fabrics for your home's decor but the new microfiber fabrics are some of my favorites!.  They come in a wide variety of colors and in several fabric types.  They drape beautifully and are soft and washable - perfect for almost any room in your home!!  Use them for upholstery, slipcovers, draperies, curtains, pillows, bedspreads and more!!!

Here are just some of the colors available from in-weave - there are others in our eBay store.

In this guide, I'll (1) Define microfibers; (2) Explain the difference between Microfiber and microsuede; (3) Describe the Advantages of Microfiber fabrics; (4) Give you tips for sewing Microfiber fabrics; and (5) Give you tips for Caring for your Microfiber fabric.

Microfiber Defined

Microfibers are a relatively new, rapidly growing category of fabrics.  The term "Microfiber" is short for "Microdenier" fiber, that is, ultrafine fibers that are less than 1 denier in size.  Most micofibers are finer than the most delicate traditional silk fibers.  In fact, microfibers are approximately 100 times finer than human hair!!!

Microfiber Fabrics can be made from polyester, nylon, rayon, acetate or a combination of those fibers.  They can be made to resemble many traditional fabrics including silks, suedes, twill or duck (denim-like) and more.

Microfiber versus Microsuede

All Microsuedes are Microfibers; however, NOT all Microfibers are Microsuedes!!! 

One of the first Microfiber fabrics to come on the market (1980's) was "Ultrasuede".  Since that time, many companies have developed microsuede fabrics.  Microsuedes are usually 100% polyester and have a finish somewhat like a true suede.  (To me the finish is sueded like the new suede paints but not a deep suede as with a traditional hide)

In recent years, other types of microfiber fabrics have been developed.  Some resemble silks, others are more like upholstery velvet or chenille.  Be sure to read the description carefully to determine whether the fabric is appropriate for your use.Advantages of Microfiber Fabrics.

For example, when we added a line of microfibers that have a surface more like chenille or velvet than suede, I tried to describe the surface of the fabric.  You can see our line of Microsuedes and Microfiber fabrics in our E-Bay store:  :in-weave's Microsuede and Microfiber Fabrics

Advantages of Microfiber Fabrics

Since they are very fine, microfibers can be tightly woven or knit into a very high quality fabric.  The denseness of the fibers in the fabric leads to many desirable characteristics. 

Microfibers are usually:

Very Drapeable yet not flimsy;
Soft with a luxurious hand;
Washable, dry cleanable;
Shrink-resistant;
High Strength (except Rayon)
Water Resistant (water tends to bead up and run off);
More "Breathable" than Similar Fabrics made from traditional materials;
Opaque (you usually can't see through them);
Resist "Pilling" and Clinging;
Fade Resistant (take and hold dye well)
Lighter in weight than Similar "Traditional" Fabrics yet stronger and more durable

Sewing With Microfibers

In general microfiber fabrics are easy to work with; however, the seams may "pucker" a little in sewing.  Avoid puckering by:

1.  Use a new sharp needle; preferably a fine Microtex or microfiber needle;

2.  Use a good quality 100% polyester thread (if you use a cotton or cotton-wrapped thread, it may not be as durable or long-lasting as your fabric!);

3.  If possible, use a walking foot on your sewing machine to reduce seam slippage (most quilters use a walking foot and generic ones are often available from sewing machine retailers);

4.  Use a longer stitch and loosen the tension;

5.  Use a straight stitch foot instead of zig-zag for topstitching;

6.  Use low-heat fusbile interfacings - microfibers generally do not like high heat;

7.  Use "light" ironing techniques only.  Use a cool to warm, dry iron and press lightly.

Caring for Microfiber Fabrics

One of the nicest things about Microfiber Fabrics are that they are easy maintenance.  Hare are a few tips about caring for 100% Polyester Microfiber fabrics (this is all that we sell for home dec use):

 1.  Machine wash.  In general, just use cool to warm water on a medium setting and your favorite detergent.  Do not bleach.

2.  Use fabric softener in your washer.  This will help prevent static from developing.

3.  Dry on a medium temp.  You can use a fabric softener sheet in your dryer if you forget fabric softener but make sure to use cool to medium heat.  High heat may cause the softener sheet to "spot" on the fabric.

4.  In general, ironing won't be necessary but if you do need to iron a seam, use a cool to warm, dry iron and a light touch.  Do not use high heat because glazing, melting or scorching could occur.   I usually find that ironing isn't necessary - that's one of the great things about Microfiber fabrics.

Conclusion

I hope that you'll try some of the new Microfiber fabrics for your home decorating projects.  They are great for upholstery, slipcovers, curtains or draperies, bedspreads, pillows, table cloths and more.  They are easy care and wear very well!!

Please visit the Microfiber Category of in-weave's E-Bay store by clicking: 

in-weave's Microfiber Fabrics

If you have any questions or comments on this guide, please contact us through "Ask Seller a Question"!

Janet

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Visit in-weave's eBay store today by clicking:

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