Coated Fabric: Everything You Need to Know About This Waterproof and Easy-to-Sew Fabric

Coated fabric is a textile usually cotton covered with a thin, smooth layer that makes it waterproof and more resistant.
Our coater often compares the technique to spreading butter on toast: you apply a fine protective coating over the surface of the fabric. The result is a fabric that resists splashes, moisture, and everyday messes.

The production of coated fabric involves a specialized coating technique.
A smooth, lump-free mixture is prepared and applied to the fabric in one or more layers, depending on the desired finish. The coating can be:

• Matte

• Glossy

• Textured or embossed

At PPMC, we use a cotton base fabric, and the coating is applied using phthalate-free PVC, to ensure safety for everyone including children.

At Papa Pique et Maman Coud, we offer two types of coated cotton:

• Exterior coating: the coating is visible on the outside. The fabric has a smooth, shiny, and waterproof finish perfect for bags, tablecloths, changing mats…

• Interior coating: the fabric maintains its natural or decorative look on the outside. The coating is applied on the inside, which strengthens and stiffens the fabric without changing its appearance.

Benefits:

• Waterproof: perfect for outdoor or everyday use

• Easy to clean: just wipe with a sponge

• Flexible and easy to handle: simple to sew with the right tools

• Doesn’t fray: clean cuts, no need to hem

• Durable: holds up well over time and resists wrinkling

Things to note:

• Can be slightly stiff, depending on the base fabric

• Heat-sensitive: avoid ironing or tumble drying

• May stick under the presser foot (see our tips below!)

Coated fabric is beginner-friendly and easy to sew.
Here are some tips:

• Use a washable marker to trace your patterns on the reverse side (cotton side).

• If the fabric sticks under your presser foot, try these tricks:

  • Use a Teflon presser foot

  • Add masking tape under a regular foot

  • Slide a sheet of tissue paper between the foot and the fabric

Bonus tip: no need to finish edges, as coated fabric doesn't fray.

Coated cotton is very low-maintenance:

• Daily cleaning: wipe with a sponge

• Machine wash: gentle cycle at 30°C, low spin

• Drying: air dry only

• Avoid: tumble dryer and ironing to preserve the phthalate-free coating

To extend the life of your fabric, limit frequent machine washes.

So many things! Let your creativity run wild with these ideas:

• A waterproof tablecloth for indoor or outdoor use

• Bags and pouches that are practical and washable

• A portable changing mat for little ones

• Placemats, bibs, storage pouches

• A picnic blanket that resists damp ground

Browse our full selection of printed coated fabrics by the meter online or visit our fabric shops in Carnac, Angers, Noirmoutier, and Caen.
You’ll find a variety of bright, colorful, and cheerful prints, perfect for your creative projects.