Scuba Fabric - How To Sew A Scuba Dress

Posted by Rosalie Galvez on February 9th, 2021

You are looking for something with great strength that is versatile to be used for multiple projects – from flowing, flowery skirts to narrow and chic pencil skirts.

If you have not yet found your dream fabric, scuba fabric can be worth considering for your next project. It will serve you best all the while even if you have no intention of scouring and exploring the depths of the ocean.

As the name suggests, the fabric was originally used for wet suits of scuba divers. It was comfortable, tough, and did not break under pressure. Soon, the fabric started to use to make beautiful professional dresses at home, thus getting everyone to get in the fashion game that looks great on every body type.

For those who want to use scuba fabric to make stylish clothes, it only takes some basic sewing skills and essential supplies to create exclusive vibrant dresses at home.

Still wondering what scuba fabric is or what kind of needles do you need to create dresses at home or where to get a pattern book to work on that magical fabric, we have got you covered.

Read the article to get an insight into the fabric!

What Is Scuba Fabric?

Polyester and spandex, are the two major components in the making of scuba fabric. It is a double-knit fabric which means multiple needles are used at once to produce it, thus connecting the two layers of fabric together.

This versatile material is not stiff, so you will find some stretch, some give in it. With a fine texture, excellent gauge thread, and slinky feeling to it makes it a perfect material for a wide range of dresses and outfits.

The name – scuba throws many off the line about its uses. Many think that it is strictly used for making swimming and diving gear but that is not the case. The only connection that this fabric has with the wet suits of divers is neoprene. It is the same synthetic material that is used in both to give it characteristic strength and flexibility.

The thickness of the fabric can be varied, so you can work with this fabric on a number of diverse projects. It is easy to cut and make pieces, has strength, and warm character. It means you do not need to add the lining for the garments that are worn in the winter season.

The best thing about this magical fabric is that it can be used to make a wide array of contrasting dresses – from body-fitting dresses to long, flowing gowns. The fabric connects really well with modern dye which means there are countless options for your dress in both designs and colors.

Are you on the lookout for a fabric that is sturdy, fits well, and has universal appeal? Look no further. Scuba fabric is your ideal fit!

Properties Of Neoprene Fabric

There is a common perception of identical properties of scuba fabric and neoprene fabric. Of course, there are common traits but that does not mean they can be used interchangeably. So, you must keep in mind that neoprene and scuba fabric are two different things.

Made of synthetic rubber-type material called polychloroprene, neoprene is mostly used to make wet suits for divers. To get warmth and cushioning for the diver in the crushing pressure of the ocean, this material is placed between layers of other material like nylon or a polyester knit. This gives extra comfort and mobility to the diver.

There are also instances where neoprene material gets laminated with other types of materials such as fleece or velvet to give it a new character.

Pro Tip: Even neoprene can be used for scuba diving gear as well as everyday dresses. As a cherry on top, it is far richer and more durable than scuba fabric.

Contrary to this, scuba fabric is a double-knit fabric with major portions of polyester. Still, there are many similarities that you can find in both scuba fabric and neoprene.

Similar to scuba fabric is Ponte knit material, but scuba knit fabric is made up of thinner filaments when compared to the former. The “double-knit” nature of the fabric means it is more stable and thicker, thus ensuring longevity in life and functionality.

As we are discussing the properties of these similar yet different fabrics, scuba knit drapes more fluidly than the neoprene. Overall, it permits more comfort and style without cutting many corners.

You should know that scuba fabric is delicate as compared to neoprene fabric. So, it can be easily damaged or altered. Make sure that its properties are in line with your project’s requirements.

If you are shopping online, it is hard to distinguish scuba fabric from neoprene because many sellers use the terms interchangeably. Still, study and research before making the payment so you would know what you are getting for your money.

One of the ways to check this is by reading the composition section in-depth and by scanning through the reviews. This will give you a peek at the reality of the material and the level of satisfaction the majority of their customers show.

Scuba Dress

There are many outfits that you can make using scuba fabric, but the material is famous for making professional-looking dresses and pencil skirts at home.

Still, if you are wondering what a scuba dress is, fret not. In simple terms, scuba dress in an outfit that is made from the scuba fabric. Due to its strength and versatility, the material is used for a number of outfits and considered to be ideal for making pencil skirts.

It is a matter of personal preference and style because you can use scuba fabric to create both tight-fit dresses and those that drape loosely around you.

The presence of polyester in the fabric tends to make the dresses susceptible to take up static charges with ease. If you experience a situation like this, it is prudent to mist the dress with water to remove the charge.

The thing that contributes the most to the popularity of these dresses is that anyone can wear and flaunt their bodies because it compliments every body type. It has the strength of spandex – a material supposedly used to make superhero costumes, so you will have body support and the material will make sure you look your best by ironing out seeming kinks and wrinkles.

Scuba fabric comes in countless colors, designs, and shades. So, it is possible to create an outfit that is perfect for a day at work, and another one that gives out casual vibes and helps you chill out with friends and family. No matter the style and stitch, you will find both dresses to be comfortable and vibrant for the occasions.

If you were thinking that scuba fabric is only used to create dresses, you are obviously mistaken.

From skirts, shirts, jackets, and dress pants to anything you want, you can make it with the help of this fabric, courtesy of the versatility and flexibility of this material. You can become the center of attention among your friends, family, and co-workers. There is an added pride element in this, which is you designed and made the dress yourself!

Pro Tip: You will find a number of videos on social media channels such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram where designers will show you how to make outfits and dresses using scuba material. There is so much that you can learn from these tutorials.

Tips On How To Sew Scuba Fabric At Home

If you are ready to use scuba fabric for your next DIY sewing project, keep on reading. We have listed some of the practical tips and tricks in the lines below that will help you in getting the best out of this unique fabric.

Before we start, keep in mind:

• Scuba fabric seems thin and light but it is a warm material. So naturally, it will be ideal for making winter outfits than creating summer dresses.

• You should be clear on the needs of your project before choosing a fabric. Once you have purchased a material, it is hard to make amends.

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