Is it fabric? Is it paper? Maybe both? Can you sew it? And wash it? You may never have heard of Kraft Tex, this fabric that looks like paper and, in fact, has some of its characteristics. Today we're telling you everything about it: what it is, how to use it, and what kinds of projects you can get the most out of it.
Although it isn't very well known in Spain yet, in the U.S. it has already caused a sensation because of its truly special qualities. Do you want to learn about them? We've already started experimenting with it, and we're fascinated by the result.
What exactly is this fabric that looks like paper?
According to the manufacturer's description, it's a durable paper that resembles leather, both in appearance and feel; but it can be sewn, cut, and washed just like fabric. In other words, it's a truly surprising kind of three-in-one material that, as you'll see below, you can use for very different kinds of projects.
One of the blogs we explored to learn more about Kraft Tex compares it to the material used for jeans labels and admits to finding it while looking for a cheap, high-quality substitute for leather.
You may be thinking about the different textures of paper, leather, and fabric. How can this material be presented as all three things at once? It's very simple: there's a trick to it.
How do you adapt Kraft Tex to the desired texture?
As we've already told you, Kraft Tex is washable, and here's the secret to making it “shift” from its more cardboard-like appearance to a softer, more flexible one. You only need to soak it, but with a few particular details. To begin with, we won't use the washing machine—not because we can't (we can), but because directly submerging it in very, very hot water seems to be more effective. Since the manufacturer doesn't provide much information, this is what English-speaking bloggers recommend after experimenting with different methods:
Step 1: To soften Kraft Tex, first cut the pieces you're going to use, then submerge them for 5 minutes in very, very hot water that you have previously brought to a boil. If you don't do this, it will retain that stiffer, paper-like texture which, by the way, is very interesting for other kinds of projects, as we'll explain later.
Step 2: Remove it from the water very carefully, because it's hot! Let it cool down a little so you don't burn your hands, then wring it out well, trying to remove all the water. After that, smooth it out and repeat the same soaking, wringing, and smoothing process a couple more times.
Finally, put it out to dry. You can smooth it out well and let it dry stretched out somewhere, or speed up the process either with an iron or a dryer. You can set the temperature as high as you like without any fear.
Now you can use it for a project such as this beautiful maxi bag (tutorial at Lulu Ferris). As you can see, it's ideal for combining with fabric, and you can work with it on a sewing machine without any problem, although you'll need to use a fairly strong needle (one specifically for leather, for example). If you don't know what we're talking about, then you need to visit our sewing machine needle guide.
You can make bags, wallets, tote bags, clothing appliqués, covers, cases, bracelets, or fanny packs like the one in this other photograph, with fabric on the front and Kraft Tex on the back (fanny pack tutorial at Lulu Ferris)… What can you think of?
And what can you do to make the most of Kraft Tex's “cardboard-like” state?
But if we're working with a fabric that looks like paper (or was it paper that looked like fabric?), it can also be very interesting to take advantage of this type of texture. For example, for all kinds of scrapbook projects: bookmarks, boxes covered with fabric, notebook covers, folders… You can use the sewing machine for the designs or use fabric gluel, whichever you prefer.Another magical thing about Kraft Tex is that you can paint it, stamp it, draw on it, print on it… Just like paper! In this case, you should consider whether you intend to wash it or not, and use water-resistant paints if you think it may occasionally encounter the washing machine. Let your creativity run wild and create unique, personal projects. Don't worry if drawing isn't your thing; you can also decorate it by sewing on a pretty fabric, writing your favorite phrase, or letting your children decorate it…You can do anything you can think of.
So now you know: stop by our store to start experimenting with this new and curious material, which will take you down new DIY paths, and have an absolute blast with all its possibilities.
And don't forget that you get a 5% discount on Kraft Tex and on all the products in our store if you're a member of Lulu Ferris.
Happy creating!